letter to the editor

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Letter to the Editor
March 23, 2009:

     This letter has to do with just one specific item in the LETTER OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI TO THE BISHOPS OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH concerning the remission of the excommunication of the four Bishops consecrated by Archbishop Lefebvre.

     At the outset I want to clearly state that I am a traditional Catholic, and not a member of the Society of Saint Pius X.

     In the above mentioned letter Pope Benedict writes, “The Church's teaching authority cannot be frozen in the year 1962 – this must be quite clear to the Society. But some of those who put themselves forward as great defenders of the Council also need to be reminded that Vatican II embraces the entire doctrinal history of the Church. Anyone who wishes to be obedient to the Council has to accept the faith professed over the centuries, and cannot sever the roots from which the tree draws its life.” (Capitals for emphasis)

    A careful study of the pope's words is tremendously important. Obviously the leadership and the members of the Society of Saint Pius X accept the faith professed over the centuries. That, of course, is a given for any true Catholic. Forget the fact that Vatican II was solely a pastoral Council, since any dogmatic Council can not reverse or change in any way defined doctrine.

     There has been so much talk about the Society of Saint Pius X accepting the Council. Frankly I believe the shoe belongs on the other foot. As a starter, and merely a starter, it is only fair that each official in the Vatican (i.e. Curia, etc., etc.) be asked to submit answers in writing to the pope in regard to the following questions:

(1).   Do you agree that the “Syllabus” of Errors as proclaimed by Blessed Pius IX is still binding on Catholics?

(2).   Do you accept the Encyclical, Pascendi, and could you in good conscience take the Oath against Modernism if you were asked to do so today?

(3).   Do you agree that the Encyclical, “Casti Connubii” written by Pope Pius XI on 12/31/30 was an excellent and timeless document?

     Given the deep inroads of heresy within all levels of the Church it would be indeed interesting, but more so important that officials in the Vatican be asked to answer the above questions in writing.

     I am very fearful that their answers, if truthful, would tell us so much. It would tell us who is really Catholic and who is not.

     It is difficult for me to understand why the Society of Saint Pius X does not push this point. If they have to prove themselves in regard to the Council why don't all officials in the Vatican have to assure Pope Benedict that they accept the faith professed over the centuries?

Sincerely in Christ and Mary,
Peter Yzaguirre,
Omaha, Nebraska

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