Theologian reflects on church controversy
John Dwyer was a Jesuit Priest for almost a decade until he asked the Vatican for Laicization so he could marry, He then went on and taught theology for years. Dwyer is now retired, but his knowledge of the Catholic religion is still sharp. Dwyer thinks that recent public debate about weather or not Governor Cuomo should be allowed to receive communion because he is living with his girlfriend, should remain private.
"This is a matter of personal choice and decision. its not a matter for discussion in the public forum." said Dwyer.
Dwyer though that Bishop Howard Hubbard's response to the criticism last week was right on, when he called the issue "a pastoral matter".
Meantime, Gary Mercure, convicted two weeks ago of raping two boys while he was a priest in Queensbury in the 80's is allowed to receive communion. Hubbard asked for his Laicization, which removes him from the priesthood but that does not prevent him from receiving communion. Dwyer explains, "Because the Eucharist is not a reward, but strength for the weak and strength for the sinner."
Excommunication is the most severe penalty imposed by the church but according to Dwyer, it can only be imposed for certain sins.
"The catholic teaching according to canon law would argue that excommunication is automatic for procuring abortion, not for other sins. It's not in favor of the other sins by any means but they do not bring about excommunication."
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Theologian Reflects on Gov. Cuomo Church Controversy
Marci Natale speaks with a theologian about the controversy surrounding a Catholic Canon Law expert criticizing Governor Cuomo for living with his girlfriend and recieving commuion.
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