A critique of the modus operandi of the congregationof the doctrine of the faith when investigating 'dissident' Catholics

Gilmore, Camilla Verity Anne (2015). A critique of the modus operandi of the congregationof the doctrine of the faith when investigating 'dissident' Catholics. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

The Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith occupy the role of the judicial branch of the Catholic Church. Their function is to denounce and expel those whose teachings or actions threaten the faithful members of the Catholic Church. It is, of course, vital that an organisation should have the mechanism to protect itself from internal or external threat, but it is also vital that this mechanism is constantly reviewed to ensure that it is fit for purpose and has not become a malign force within the organisation. This dissertation aims to show, by reference to both the judicial praxis and the theological methodology utilised by the CDF when investigating dissident Catholics, that the CDF is indeed no longer fit for purpose and has a great potential to become a malign influence, by comparing their Investigative Process to the tenets of natural law as proposed by John Finnis as well as engaging in a theological critique of the documents that the CDF produced during their investigation of Professor Hans Kling. Special reference is also made to the cases of Fr Tony Flannery and Sr Elizabeth Johnson.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):