Over 100 Catholics Attend Lecture by Prominent Theologian Robert McClory on the "Hijacking of Vatican II"

Over 100 people attended the excellent lecture by Robert McClory on Feb. 6, 2010 at St. Andrew UCC in Sarasota, Florida. This presentation was sponsored by Southwest Fl. CTA, Voice of the Faithful of Venice, and Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community. Dr. Michael Rigdon, co-pastor of Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community introduced Dr. McClory, a prestigous scholar of Vatican II and author of books such as Turning Point: The Inside Story of the Papal Birth Control Commission, As It Was in the Beginning: The Coming Democratization of the Catholic Church, Faithful Dissenters.

Dr. McClory presented some "behind the scenes stories "of Vatican II documents such as the Constitution on Sacred Liturgy. His theory on the present "hijacking of Vatican II" is that this is the vision of Pope Benedict who has stated that he wants a smaller, more faithful, obedient church. However, the papal view , according to McClory is not what Vatican II was about. Pope John XXIII opened the windows of change and dialogue with the world, and embraced the hopes and fears of all humanity. Now Pope Benedict is directing the church in a different direction-- back to Medieval times with popular devotions such as indulgences, relics and Latin liturgies.

Bridget Mary's Reflection:

Dr. Robert McClory's presentation provided an excellent look at the accomplishments of Vatican II and our present Pope's movement backward.

For many Catholics, there is no turning back, only moving forward together. The Spirit of God is in the people of God and continues to speak today through the movement for a more just church and world. One example, the Roman Catholic Women Priests Movement provides another vision of a more open, just and inclusive church. We are laying the groundwork for Vatican III, which will be an Ecumenical Council of the people of God!

I think we are creating a bridge for the "faithful" to cross from the present paradigm to a church where all are welcome to receive sacraments and celebrate inclusive liturgies and where all are called to share their spiritual gifts in a community of equals in service of God's people. We the people of God are the church, as Vatican II taught!

Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP

http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/