Apostasy in Action

By R.D. Noble

Pope Francis left an indelible mark on the modern Catholic Church. Some contend that the changes instituted by the 266th Pope were beneficial to the faith, while others argue that Francis left the church in a state of confusion and division. 

 

Has the church lost its way? Has it been weakened by recent attempts to modernize it? Can it recover? What about tradition, is there still time for the Catholic Church to recapture its historical identity?

 

Apostasy in Action attempts to answer these questions while offering clarity, context, and hope. Written from a traditional Catholic perspective, the book examines theological and pastoral shifts from both the pre and post-Francis era, drawing on Scripture, Church history, and the wisdom of the Magisterium. 

 

You'll discover how the Church has faced and overcome crises of faith throughout its history, and why a renewed commitment to orthodoxy and Sacred Tradition is the only sure path forward. With practical insight and poignant introspection, this concise yet well-researched work strives to make the case that Catholicism can once again take its rightful place as a religion of beauty, truth, unity, and tradition. 

 

Rejoice, for it is not too late!

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Delaney Publishing Company
• Release date: Apr 29, 2025
• ISBN: 9798230792499

Book preview

Apostasy

In

Action

Modern Catholicism & The Case For A Return To tradition in the Post-Francis Era

R.D. Noble

Copyright © 2025.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Published by:

Delaney Publishing Company

Dedication

This book is dedicated to the faithful Catholics throughout history who have valiantly defended the unchanging truths of the Gospel, those who have tirelessly preserved Sacred Tradition, and those who, in the face of adversity, have maintained their unwavering commitment to the teachings of Holy Mother Church. Their steadfast witness serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, a testament to the enduring power of faith and the enduring strength of the Church. It is to their unwavering fidelity and courageous example that this work is humbly offered, in prayerful hope that it will serve as a small contribution to the ongoing defense of the Catholic faith. This work is further dedicated to those seeking a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith, who may find themselves wrestling with contemporary challenges, and those seeking clarity in the midst of doctrinal debates within the Church.

May this exploration of tradition and its enduring relevance offer solace, guidance, and a strengthened resolve in the face of the ongoing challenges of our times.

Preface

As of the writing of this book, news of the death of Pope Francis (1936-2025) is still fresh. It is my sincere hope that God welcomes him into His ever-loving presence. That said, I make no bones about the fact that I have been very critical of the late Pontiff’s blatant attempt to infuse politically left leaning, progressive constructs into the Catholic Church. That being said, I feel it necessary to mention that the intention of this exegesis on the topic is in no way meant to disparage the holy Catholic Church or the legacy of Pope Francis, a man who was undeniably dedicated to his faith and pastoral ministry. Rather, it seeks to offer a reasoned and documented counterpoint to certain theological and pastoral innovations within his papacy that have raised serious concerns among traditional Catholics. This book respectfully but firmly engages with specific instances where, in the judgment of this author, the Pope’s actions have deviated from established Catholic teachings and traditions, exploring the theological and historical implications of these departures. The foundation of this critique rests upon the unwavering belief in the divinely ordained nature of the Church's doctrines and traditions, a belief rooted in Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Magisterium’s consistent teaching throughout the ages. This work strives to illuminate the potential consequences of compromising core tenets of the faith, while simultaneously acknowledging the complexities and nuances inherent in interpreting and applying these principles in the context of a rapidly changing world. It is my sincere hope that this study will contribute to a robust and respectful theological dialogue, fostering a more profound understanding of the enduring truths of the Catholic faith and the vital importance of preserving its integrity for future generations.

The reader is encouraged to engage this material with prayerful reflection and an open mind, seeking ultimately the truth and the well-being of the Church.

The Lord never tires of forgiving. It is we who tire of asking for forgiveness.  -Pope Francis

Contents

Dedication

Preface

Introduction

Scripture as the Inerrant Word of God

The Magisterium: Guardian of Faith and Tradition

Challenges to Traditional Doctrines: A Historical Perspective

The Importance of Maintaining Orthodoxy

Pope Francis’ Pastoral Approach

Amoris Laetitia and its Theological Implications

Challenges to Traditional Moral Teachings

The Impact on Catholic Identity

The Limits of Papal Authority

Maintaining Doctrinal Clarity and Consistency

The Role of Scripture and Tradition in Moral DecisionMaking

Responding to Contemporary Challenges While Preserving Tradition

The Importance of Theological Discourse and Dialogue

A Deeper Dive into Amoris Laetitia

Analyzing Key Papal Pronouncements

The Nature of Marriage and Family in Catholic Theology

Theological Perspectives on Moral Issues

The Role of Conscience in Moral DecisionMaking

Challenges to Papal Authority Throughout History

Major Theological Disputes in Church History

The Development of Catholic Social Teaching

Historical Precedents for Doctrinal Clarity

The Church's Response to Societal Changes

The Value of Liturgical Tradition

The Role of Sacred Art and Music

Preserving Traditional Theological Methodologies

The Importance of Spiritual Disciplines

The Transmission of Faith Across Generations

Addressing Common Misconceptions About Traditionalism

Responding to Accusations of Intolerance

Defending the Church's Moral Teachings

Rebutting Claims of Rigidity and Inflexibility

The Importance of Charity and Dialogue

The Challenges Facing the Catholic Church Today

The Need for Renewed Evangelization

The Importance of Catholic Education

The Role of Families in Faith Formation

A Vision for a Renewed and Vibrant Church

The Dangers of Theological Relativism

The Importance of Upholding Moral Absolutes

Rediscovering the Beauty of the Catholic Faith

Embracing the Sacramental Life

Living a Life of Holiness

Integrating Faith and Reason

The Role of Intellectual Honesty

The Ongoing Importance of Theological Reflection

A Call for Unity and Collaboration

Hope for the Future of the Church

Acknowledgments

Glossary

Introduction

This book undertakes a critical examination and history of the Catholic faith up to and including Pope Francis' papacy. There is emphasis on those aspects of the late Pope’s reign which have sparked significant debate within the church, though this context is ancillary to the central theme. Written from a traditional Catholic perspective, this work is grounded in a deep respect for the Church's historical teachings and doctrines. Once again, I MUST state that I acknowledge Pope Francis's personal piety and commitment to the Church, though I posit that certain of his pronouncements and actions appear to deviate from established Catholic dogma, thereby potentially undermining the core tenets of the faith. This study meticulously analyzes specific instances of these perceived deviations, grounding its arguments in scriptural passages, Church documents (including conciliar pronouncements and encyclicals), and respected scholarly works. By providing well-documented counterpoints to progressive theological innovations, the author aims to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the Church. The historical context of similar challenges to Church orthodoxy throughout history is explored, demonstrating that the current debates are not unprecedented but rather represent a recurring pattern that requires thoughtful and sustained engagement. The goal is not to engage in mere polemics but to offer a scholarly and faith-based analysis, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced and informed understanding of the challenges facing the Church in the 21st century. It is the author's sincere hope that this work will contribute to a meaningful dialogue within the Church, fostering a more profound appreciation for the truths of the divine and the unwavering importance of preserving the integrity of the Catholic faith.

I.

The Unchanging Nature of Divine Revelation

Scripture as the Inerrant Word of God

The Catholic Church, from its inception, has held the Bible as the inspired and inerrant Word of God. This belief is a cornerstone of Catholic identity and practice, affirmed across centuries through key conciliar pronouncements. Understanding this deeply rooted conviction necessitates a journey through Church history, examining how the understanding of Scripture’s authority has shaped theological reflection, pastoral practice, and the very fabric of Catholic doctrine.

The concept of biblical inerrancy doesn't imply a naive literalism, but rather affirms that Scripture, in its original autographs, is free from error in doctrinal and ethical teaching. This understanding stems from the belief that the Holy Spirit guided the human authors of Scripture, ensuring the accurate transmission of God's revelation. This is not to say that every detail of the text requires a purely literal interpretation; the Church has always acknowledged the use of literary genres, such as poetry, parable, and prophecy, which demand appropriate hermeneutical approaches. However, the underlying message, the divinely revealed truth intended for humanity's salvation, is preserved without error.

The Council of Trent (1545-1563), responding to the challenges of the Protestant Reformation, explicitly reaffirmed the authority of both Scripture and Tradition. The Council declared the Bible to be divinely inspired and without error in matters relative to the faith, emphasizing the necessity of interpreting Scripture within the living Tradition of the Church. This carefully balanced approach  underscored the crucial role of the Magisterium in guiding the faithful in understanding and applying the message of the Bible. It was a direct response to Protestant reformers who emphasized sola scriptura , the belief that Scripture alone is the ultimate source of authority. The Catholic Church, while recognizing the primacy of Scripture, affirmed the vital role of Tradition in interpreting and understanding its teachings.

The Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), while initiating a period of significant reform and renewal within the Church, also reinforced the belief in the divinely inspired nature of Scripture. The Dogmatic Constitution Dei Verbum (On Divine Revelation) emphasized the importance of biblical study and encouraged a deeper understanding of the historical and literary context of the sacred texts. However, it never wavered in its affirmation of the inerrancy of Scripture in matters of faith and morals, stressing the need for authentic interpretation guided by the living Tradition of the Church. This careful approach sought to balance a renewed appreciation for the historical context of biblical texts with the unwavering conviction in the reliability and trustworthiness of God's revealed word. The historical approach to biblical interpretation within the Church has been complex and multifaceted. Early Church Fathers, such as Augustine and Origen, employed allegorical and typological methods alongside literal readings, seeking to uncover the deeper spiritual meanings contained within the scriptures. Their  understanding of Scripture, while employing various interpretative techniques, was firmly rooted in the belief in its divine authorship and ultimate authority. The allegorical and typological methods they used weren't a rejection of the literal meaning but rather an attempt to plumb the depths of divine wisdom contained within the texts. This approach recognized the multifaceted nature of God's revelation, which could be understood on various levels, from the historical narrative to the theological truths it conveyed.

The Middle Ages witnessed the rise of scholastic theology, which employed rigorous philosophical methods to systematize and understand the teachings of the Bible. Thomas Aquinas, a pivotal figure in this period, demonstrated the compatibility of faith and reason, utilizing Aristotelian philosophy to articulate and defend Catholic doctrine based on scriptural foundations. His work serves as a testament to the intellectual rigor and systematic approach applied to understanding and defending the truth of Scripture, showcasing the commitment to integrating rational thought with revealed truth. This approach didn't undermine the inerrancy of Scripture; rather, it sought to understand its message more profoundly through the lens of reason.

The Reformation period brought significant challenges to the traditional understanding of biblical authority. Martin Luther and John Calvin, while emphasizing the importance of Scripture, differed sharply with the Catholic Church on the role of Tradition and the authority of the Magisterium. This resulted in a divergence in understanding the very nature of biblical interpretation and the extent of its inerrancy. The ensuing debates shaped the theological landscape of the Western Church, highlighting the critical importance of the Church's role in interpreting and safeguarding the message of the sacred texts. The Counter-Reformation, in response, further clarified the Church's position on the inerrancy of Scripture and its relationship to Tradition.

The modern era brought new challenges to the Church's understanding of the Bible, particularly in the context of historical criticism and the development of scientific methods. Some scholars attempted to reinterpret the Bible in light of modern historical and scientific findings, which sometimes led to a downplaying or questioning of the inerrancy of Scripture. However, the Church has consistently maintained its position on the inerrancy of Scripture with regard to faith and morality, while acknowledging the need for appropriate methods of historical and literary analysis. This approach allows for the integration of scholarly insights without compromising the belief in the divine origin and trustworthiness of Scripture. The ongoing discussion regarding the inerrancy of Scripture underscores the dynamic nature of theological discourse within the Church. It is a living tradition, constantly engaging with new insights and challenges, seeking to understand more deeply the message of the Bible within the context of faith and reason. While affirming the inerrancy of Scripture, the Church also recognizes the need for careful and nuanced interpretations, mindful of the historical, literary, and cultural contexts of the sacred texts. This balance reflects the Church's commitment to both upholding the timeless truths of the Bible and responding thoughtfully to the intellectual and cultural changes of each era.

The belief in the inerrancy of Scripture is foundational to Catholicism, guiding theological reflection, pastoral practice, and the transmission of faith across generations. As one pillar of the Catholic understanding of divine revelation, it naturally connects to the role of Sacred Tradition, which will be discussed next. It is a building block of Catholic teaching, guiding theological reflection, pastoral practice, and the transmission of the faith across generations. The Church’s ongoing engagement with the Bible reflects a commitment to both preserving the timeless truths of God's Word and responding thoughtfully to the challenges and opportunities of each new era, ensuring that the message of salvation continues to resonate within hearts and minds. It is a commitment to the preservation of divine revelation, as interpreted and guarded by the Church throughout its long and complex history. This unwavering belief serves as the solid foundation upon which the entirety of Catholic doctrine and practice rests.

The Role of Sacred Tradition in Catholic Doctrine

Equally crucial, and inextricably linked, is the concept of Sacred Tradition. This is not a separate or secondary source of revelation, but rather the living transmission of the Gospel message, entrusted by Christ to his apostles and passed down through the centuries by the Church. To understand this, one must grapple with the integral role of Sacred Tradition in preserving and interpreting the Word of God.

Sacred Tradition, in Catholic theology, encompasses the entire body of teachings, practices, and beliefs handed down from the apostles. It is not a static collection of documents or pronouncements, but a dynamic, living reality—a stream of faith flowing from the wellspring of apostolic witness. This living tradition is not merely a collection of human opinions or interpretations, but rather the transmission of the very life of the Church, imbued with the Holy Spirit’s guidance and preserving the original deposit of faith. This deposit, comprised of both Scripture and Tradition, remains changed in its essential core, though its understanding and application may be developed and articulated more fully over time.

The relationship between Scripture and Tradition is not one of opposition, but of profound unity and interdependence. Scripture is the written Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit and entrusted to the Church. Tradition, in turn, is the living transmission of that Word, the interpretation and application of its teachings within the life of the community of faith. One cannot fully understand Scripture without the light shed upon it by Tradition, nor can one grasp the fullness of Tradition without the anchor provided by the written Word. They are two inseparable aspects of a single, divinely revealed truth.

This organic connection between Scripture and Tradition is vividly illustrated in the writings of the early Church Fathers. These theologians, writing in the centuries immediately following the apostolic age, did not view Scripture as a self-interpreting text. They recognized the need for guided understanding, a need supplied by the living Tradition of the Church, itself rooted in the apostolic witness. For instance, St. Augustine, a towering figure in the development of Western theology, meticulously studied Scripture, drawing upon the interpretations and practices of the Church to elucidate its meaning. His commentaries, profound and influential, were not merely subjective interpretations but rather attempts to unlock the scriptural message as it had been understood and transmitted within the living Tradition. His deep engagement with both Scripture and Tradition demonstrates the organic connection between these two pillars of Catholic faith, demonstrating the unity of the deposit of faith.

Similarly, other early Church Fathers, such as St. Irenaeus vigorously defended the integrity of the apostolic tradition against heretical interpretations of Scripture. He emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity with the teachings of the apostles, arguing that the Church's tradition was the surest safeguard against error. His emphasis on the unbroken lineage of teaching from the apostles to his own time highlights the dynamic nature of Tradition—a living stream flowing uninterrupted from its source. This demonstration of the historical continuity of Tradition is a crucial element in understanding its role in the preservation of the Gospel message. The writings of these early theologians stand as testament to the symbiotic relationship between Scripture and Tradition.

The Council of Trent (1545-1563), in response to the challenges of the Protestant Reformation, explicitly affirmed the authority of both Scripture and Tradition. The Council recognized that while Scripture is the divinely inspired Word of God, its interpretation and application are entrusted to the living Church, guided by the Holy Spirit. This understanding rejected the sola scriptura principle embraced by some Protestant reformers, which asserted Scripture as the sole source of authority. The Council of Trent effectively articulated the Catholic view that Scripture and Tradition are inseparable, each illuminating and complementing the other. The Church's understanding of Tradition is not a subjective imposition, but a faithful adherence to the original apostolic witness,  guaranteeing the correct understanding of the Scriptures.

The Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), while promoting a renewed emphasis on Scripture and encouraging biblical scholarship, further solidified the importance of Tradition. The Dogmatic Constitution Dei Verbum (On Divine Revelation) reiterates the interconnectedness of Scripture and Tradition, emphasizing the role of the Magisterium, the teaching authority of the Church, in guiding the faithful in the interpretation of the Word of God. The Council's emphasis on Tradition was not a concession to tradition for tradition’s sake but rather a recognition of its essential role in preserving the integrity and consistency of the