Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Audio: Interview with Archbishop Burke on obedience...

Patrick Coffin, the host of Catholic Answers Live had an excellent interview with Archbishop Raymond L. Burke (a link to the audio location, and more, will be at the bottom).  The former Archbishop of St. Louis is now the Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura, member of the Congregation for Bishops (since October of 2009), and newly appointed to the Congregation for Divine Worship... yesterday

This interview was pre-recorded and aired on Monday, July 5, 2010. I liked the fact that there were no calls on an interview of this type because it allowed for some real wholesome dialogue between Patrick and Archbishop Burke.  It was an excellent interview.

Main Topic: Obedience

Among the things discussed:
  • Is obedience something just for those who profess a vow or promise of obedience like religious, or priests?
  • What about obedience in imitation of Christ? The saints?
  • Obedience and the commandments; does obedience impact our ability to be chaste, or to practice the virtues?
  • Examination of conscience, and formation of conscience: Do we have to know what the Church teaches?
  • What is happening interiorly when we choose disobedience?
  • What impact did Catholic education and catechetics have with the changes that came about in the 60's and 70's?
Secondary Topic: Catholic Pols, Holy Communion and Canon 915

It only stands to reason that with the subject of obedience the discussion would flow nicely into the behavior of Catholic politicians whose legislative activities are supportive of abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem-cell work, etc.  Patrick and Archbishop Burke talk about the confusion there seems to be amongst the episcopacy on Canon 915.  There is some discussion about EMHC's and how they might handle the awkward position: Should they give Holy Communion to known Catholic pols who present themselves and are publicly at odds with the Church and giving scandal?  What ought they do in such a circumstance?

His Excellency also distinguishes between the different forms of excommunication, and other penalties.

Truly a great interview, and if I have one piece of feedback for Patrick Coffin, it's to have such an excellent - no-caller dialogue with other Church figures once or twice monthly.  It gave maximum air-time to the man of the hour  - in this case, Archbishop Burke.  Perhaps he can get Cardinal Oullet down the road after he settles into his new role. I mean, he's a fellow Canadian, eh!

Well done, Patrick!

The Audio, and more...




begins today, July 7, 2010


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The obedient are not held captive by Holy Mother Church; it is the disobedient who are held captive by the world!