The Pope is Not as Powerful as You Think
By Leila Miller
Even as the Cardinals meet in the Conclave to elect the next pope, misunderstandings about the nature of the papacy abound.
For example, many people believe that the pope wields a strong and
potentially tyrannical power over his flock. The concept of an
infallible teacher leads them to imagine a dictator (even if benevolent)
who can force doctrines upon Catholics at whim, leaving the faithful
either anxious and uncertain about what dogmatic changes will come next
to disturb their lives, or ready to run like lemmings off whatever cliff
the Supreme Pontiff decides to lead them. Sure, maybe one pope is
mentally and emotionally stable, but what of the next? And the next?
Think of the havoc he could wreak! Who in his right mind would put his
life under the pope’s authority?
In reality, however, the pope is not quite as powerful as one might think.
The Deposit of Faith
Do you know the difference between a doctrine and a discipline? If not, you need to!
I have found that until a Catholic understands the distinction, he will
be at a great disadvantage when someone challenges him on Church
teaching, or when his own doubts creep in.
Here we go....
Leila Miller is a wife and mother of eight children who has a penchant
for writing and a passion for teaching the Catholic Faith in simple
ways. This summa cum laude Boston College graduate also loves to
debate atheists, advocate for special needs orphans, and attempt the
matchmaking of young Catholic singles (not necessarily in that order).
All of the above is accomplished on her three blogs: Little Catholic Bubble, Orphan Report, and the invite-only Catholic Moms Matchmaking.
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