A Church as a Silicon Valley

FUENTE: GLORIA TV

Speaking to the Corriere della Sera Cardinal Müller said that Pope Francis´ popularity is good for the Church. He noticed, however, that this popularity does not motivate people to receive the sacraments nor does it induce non-Catholics to change their wrong beliefs. As an example, Müller named the known Italian politician Emma Bonino, a fan of Francis, who at the same time strongly supports abortion. According to Müller we must be careful not to confuse Francis’ popularity with a renewal of the faith.

Muller also mentioned a “magic circle” around Francis which is concerned with “spying on alleged opponents”. He named the July dismissal of three collaborators of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Quote: "They were good and competent priests who worked for the Church with exemplary dedication". He adds: People cannot be dismissed ad libitum, without evidences or trial, on the basis of anonymous letters.

Cardinal Müller emphasized that Church authorities must listen to those who have serious questions or fair claims without ignoring or, worse, humiliating them. Otherwise, this could encourage disoriented and disappointed Catholics to go into schism. Müller believes that the cardinals who have voiced doubts about Amoris Laetitia, or the 62 signatories of a letter of criticism to the Pope, should be heard. They should not be brushed away as "Pharisees" or grumblers.

Müller further stressed that a Pope should always listen to arguments before making decisions. According to him a good relationship between the Pope and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith will always be the key to a profitable pontificate.

Cardinal Müller believes that after almost five years it is time to go beyond the understanding of the Church as a "field hospital" Quote, “Today we would need more of a Church Silicon Valley. We should be the Steve Jobs of the Faith and convey a strong vision in terms of moral and cultural values and spiritual and theological truths."