(FATHER Dennis) noticed October 13 & 14 that media outlets, including the Australian newspaper, were carrying reports of discontent, even division among the Synod representatives.
They purported to cite a critical letter signed by 13 prelates, including George Cardinal Pell. The Australian ran with the headline: Pell, Cardinals warn Pope of Church collapse. This is both inaccurate, from reliable Church sources and silly. Theologically and historically, not to mention sociologically, an imminent collapse of the Church is unthinkable.
More seriously, and consequent to my earlier analysis, it should be clear that the two orientations identified, have their differences. I can appreciate both. Of course the Catholic Church has a tradition and identity made clear by Church doctrines.
These were brilliantly elaborated in a 7000 word speech by Cardinal Erbo, a conservative from Eastern Europe with a feisty and highly intelligent mind. He made a case for the traditional doctrines prohibiting divorce and remarriage without annulment.
He was right in what he said but he did not, and maybe did not want to, state everything. Namely, given that the Church teaching is clear, what can be changed in the Church practice. This is a legitimate question and is open for a new answer.
Then Pope has suggested that he wants to hear from the Synod on this question of practice. Some of the representatives do not see the distinction very clearly or feel that it threatens the teaching.
Surely there are Bishops who think like this but contributing to the discussion trumps playing the politics. And letters are more about politics than exploring pastoral care and the meaning of mercy.