For many Catholics, the act of abortion is unforgivable — but not to Pope Francis. The leader of the Catholic church is now extending his priests the power to forgive women who decide to pursue the procedure.
Pope Francis has extended indefinitely the power of Catholic priests to forgive abortions, making the announcement in an apostolic letter released Monday.
It continues a special dispensation granted last year for the duration of the Year of Mercy — which finished Sunday — which gave all priests, rather than just bishops and specially designated confessors, the power to absolve the sin of abortion.
While the practical effect of Francis’ announcement remains unclear, it draws attention to the prevailing theme of his papacy: That the doors of the Church must remain open, just as God’s forgiveness and mercy extend to all those who repent from sin.
That said, the Catholic Church’s stance on abortion has not changed — it is still viewed as a “grave sin.” But it makes it easier for women who have had abortions to be absolved for their actions, and rejoin the church.
“I wish to restate as firmly as I can that abortion is a grave sin, since it puts an end to an innocent life,” the Pope’s letter states.
“In the same way, however, I can and must state that there is no sin that God’s mercy cannot reach and wipe away when it finds a repentant heart seeking to be reconciled with the Father.”
Pope Francis’ announcement is further proof that the man that leads the Catholic faith is not its most fundamental follower. He was chosen to modernize the church, but many believe he’s gone too far.
Source: CNN
Truth and Action doesn’t tell the whole truth. Sick of their attacking the Pope
First , I don’t like this Pope. And I’m not getting into a pissing contest with non Catholics. But a priest has always been able to give absolution for any sin as long as the sinner is truly repentant. So this is just put on Facebook to inflame. And it’s done a good job of bringing out the true Christian in all of you.