Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò has expressed deep disapproval of Pope Francis’s recent penitential service held on the eve of the Synod on Synodality. Viganò portrayed the event as a troubling reflection of a shift towards what he describes as a “globalist religion,” criticizing the nature of the confessions which focused on abstract, socially-oriented transgressions rather than traditional sins recognized by the Church. He alleged that the service did not address serious moral failings against God and neighbor but instead manufactured new forms of sin related to contemporary issues like environmental concerns, immigration, and social equity. Viganò’s critique underscores his belief that such an approach neglects the fundamental tenets of Christian teachings while aligning closely with modern progressive ideologies.
The Archbishop’s comments emphasized his disdain for what he perceives as a “new pauperist and politically correct decalogue” emerging from the Synod. He suggests that adherents of what he labels the “Bergoglian sect” are reluctant to confront their true spiritual failings. Instead, they shift focus toward addressing sins against society, which Viganò interprets as a diversion from genuine repentance. His language indicates a broader worry about a trend in the Church that prioritizes political correctness over established theological principles, advocating for a return to traditional values and doctrines that align with a more conservative interpretation of Catholicism.
Viganò’s remarks included a reference to the biblical figure Judas Iscariot, drawing a parallel between Judas’s objection to the extravagant use of resources for Christ and the current church’s prioritization of modern ethical issues over direct acts of charity and adherence to doctrine. By invoking this scriptural passage, Viganò painted a picture of a Church that has lost its way, prioritizing social justice themes while neglecting the spiritual obligations that underpin Catholic faith. He warns that this trend not only dilutes the Church’s mission but distorts its teachings to fit contemporary social narratives, further entrenching a crisis of belief among the faithful.
Further complicating the landscape of opinion, not all critiques of the penitential service came from the traditionally conservative side of the Church. Canon lawyer Father Gerald Murray expressed his concerns about the direction in which Pope Francis is steering the Catholic Church. He warned that the penitential service risked turning the examination of conscience into a politically charged event, reminiscent of Soviet show trials where ideology overshadowed genuine justice and repentance. This remark points to a growing unease within even moderate ranks of the clergy regarding the approach taken by the Vatican under Francis’s leadership.
Viganò’s comments resonate across various discussions about the direction of the Catholic Church, particularly in the context of the Synod on Synodality, which aims to promote greater openness and dialogue within the Church. Critics argue that such initiatives risk veering too far from traditional doctrines and practices, transforming what should be a sacred sacramental act into a platform for political discourse. This clash of perspectives raises broader questions about the future of the Church and its ability to navigate the complexities of the modern world while remaining true to its foundational beliefs and tenets.
As the Synod progresses, the debate surrounding the penitential service and its implications for the Church is likely to intensify. Viganò’s resistance to Pope Francis’s vision reflects a faction within the Church grappling with the tension between tradition and modernity. As different camps within Catholicism articulate their positions on these theological and pastoral issues, the Church faces the challenge of reconciling its rich heritage with the demands of contemporary society while fostering unity among its diverse membership. The outcome of this tension may ultimately shape the Church’s trajectory in the years to come, influencing how it addresses both enduring and emerging moral and social questions.