I found the Holy Father’s talk very interesting in light of three events now in progress that are producing results: 1)Discussions of the Holy Office with theologians from the SSPX, 2) the discussion of pastoral and disciplinary issues with the Anglicans who have fully embraced the Faith and wish to become Catholics, and 3) the discussions with the schismatic orthodox (some of whom are considering returning to communion with the Catholic Church) that took place in Cyprus last week over the issue of the historical role of the papacy in the first millennium, as well as papal infallibility.
Catholic Culture reports: At his weekly public audience on November 4, Pope Benedict XVI used the debate between St. Bernard of Clairvaux and Abelard to illustrate the proper role of theological inquiry. Debate on theological issues is healthy, the Holy Father said, as long as it is informed by faith and guided by the magisterium. The proper goal of such debates, he added, is “defending the the faith of the Church and ensuring the triumph of truth in charity.” Full article with link here.
