Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy: On the Relevance and Reality of the Development of Doctrine Today

By Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy, OFM., Cap., Catholic World Report, January 18, 2024 

Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy, OFM., Cap. (Capuchin College, Washington DC) is a Member of the International Theological Commission.. …

Given the present misrepresentation over what constitutes true and authentic doctrinal and moral development, it is beneficial to examine what Cardinal Newman teaches, and how and why it is extremely relevant in light of today’s contentious ecclesial milieu.

Presently, within the Catholic Church, there is much discussion concerning the development of doctrine. Traditionally, doctrinal development was understood to be an authentic growth in the Church’s understanding and articulation of what had always been believed and taught.

John Henry Cardinal Newman was one of the first to offer this understanding of authentic doctrinal development. Within the contemporary discussion on the nature of the development of doctrine, Newman’s teaching is often invoked. However, some theologians and a few bishops proffer, at times, the notion that what was previously considered binding in faith upon all members of the Church is no longer viable and justifiable. That the Church’s teaching needs to be altered given the sociological, philosophical, and theological changes that are now taking place within the Church and society. The doctrinal and moral changes that are deemed necessary are, nonetheless, asserted to be legitimate doctrinal and ethical developments, even though they may contradict what had been perennially taught. Because these changes are so revolutionary in nature, those who promote them speak of a “paradigm shift,” that is, a radically complete alteration of one set of beliefs to another. …

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