Philippine cardinal hopes synod debate goes beyond Communion question

Oct 10, 2014

VATICAN: The separation of married couples is a huge issue in the Philippines and other parts of Asia, not because of divorce but because poverty pushes couples to separate in search of jobs abroad, said Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila.

He is one of three presidents Pope Francis appointed to guide the synod assembly Oct 5-19.

While he hopes the pastoral care of divorced and civilly remarried couples is debated openly and with good will, he said he also hopes members of the extraordinary Synod of Bishops give appropriate consideration to the impact of poverty and migration on families and to a host of other issues that help or hinder family life.

“Poverty is not just an external context for family life, but it affects relationships,” he said. “One dramatic effect of poverty is migration. The fact that there is separation of couples and separation of parents from their children. This separation exists not because they could not stand each other or because there is a breakdown in communication, or because of conflicts but because they love each other and the best way for some of them to show concern, love and support is to leave and find employment elsewhere.”

The separation of families “definitely creates a wound and leaves a wound,” the cardinal said. Obviously, the children suffer because of their parent’s absence but the parents suffer from not being present in their children’s lives and they are challenged to remain faithful to spouses they may not see for years.

“We hope these realities can be brought to the synod,” he said. Migration is a concern for many poor countries, but it is also a pastoral challenge for the Church in host countries; pastoral programs must provide those Catholics with a welcome, assistance and support, including for keeping their family bonds strong.

Turning to the question of the pastoral care of divorced and civilly remarried Catholics, Tagle said, “debate is healthy.” He said he has asked several people their reaction to the very public discussion of some cardinals proposing, or opposing, finding a way to allow some civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion, even if their original unions have not been annulled — something not currently foreseen under church law.

“Some are very happy that, finally, this question is being addressed” and that the discussion is taking place publicly, not just “within the hallowed walls” of the Vatican, he said. But others “are worried” about the tone of the debate and possible conflict within the Church.

“But I am a firm believer that the Lord is risen and that His promise that His Church will be guided by the Holy Spirit is true,” the cardinal said.

What is essential, he said, is that as synod members and others debate the issue, they listen to one another with a conviction that the other loves the Church. That, he said, is the only way to bring the “gems” of the other’s thoughts and concerns to bear on any eventual decision.

Asked what he sees as the positive contributions of people on both sides, the cardinal said those looking for a more flexible pastoral response are displaying “realism — life is not perfect” — and are making suggestions in line with the fact that God’s saving action throughout history demonstrates a willingness to meet, reach out to and heal wounded human beings.

On the other hand, he said, he appreciates the position of those who, “knowing the human person,” see a danger that many people would interpret pastoral exceptions and “an uncritical openness” as a sign that “anything goes,” which is not true in Christianity. Being a Christian is not a walk in the park. There are some demands.”

Tagle said he hopes synod members “don’t jump to conclusions” on the issue, but enter the synod process, which Pope Francis had decided will extend through next year with the world Synod of Bishops. “Let us not rush into simplifying matters into clear formulae or clear directives. That will come,” he said.

“Let us allow the Holy Spirit to work in us.” -- CNS