Vatican Radio is reporting on the daily Mass at the Motel St.Martha and the homiletical dissertation of the Bishop of Rome.
In many cases, the Pope continued, rigidity conceals the leading of a double life; but, he pointed out, there can also be something pathological. Commenting on the difficulties and suffering that afflict a person who is both rigid and sincere, the Pope said this is because they lack the freedom of God’s children: “they do not know how to walk in the path indicated by God’s Law”. “They appear good because they follow the Law; but they are concealing something else: either they are hypocritical or they are sick. And they suffer!” he said. Pope Francis also recalled the parable of the prodigal son in which the eldest son, who had always behaved well, was indignant with his father because he had joyfully welcomed back the youngest son who returns home repentant after having led a life of debauchery. This attitude – the Pope explained – shows what is behind a certain type of goodness: “the pride of believing in one’s righteousness”. The elder son – Pope said – was rigid and conducted his life following the Law but saw his father only as a master. The other put rules aside, returned to his father in a time of darkness, and asked for forgiveness. “It is not easy to walk within the Law of the Lord without falling into rigidity” he said.
Who is this man speaking of?
The traditional Catholics whom I know are very humble people. They go to Confession frequently, sometimes weekly because they know that they are not righteous. Who are these Catholic of which he speaks, these rigid and sick people?
This Pope insults people continually. Remember "self-absorbed, Promethean, neo-pelagians?'
What Pope, what Bishop of Rome speaks this way of his flock, his children?
Is this man of Christ?
Our Lord said that we should be kind, and love and be gentle, but he also said "if you love me, keep my commandments." Keeping the Commandments of God entails a certain kind of rigidity. I won't accept sodomy as a lifestyle choice, I won't accept adultery as an option in my life or in my society, I won't accept masturbation or pornography as normal, healthy and good. I will not cheat my neighbour or commit violence against him and so on. I will look after my family, my friends, take upon responsibility in my Church and community to the best of my ability and I will speak the Truth.
Does this make me "rigid" and "sick?"
If so, then I am guilty.