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This is the third of a three part series. The first part (Names Part I: The Illogic Of The Term Pro-Choice) discussed the term “choice” as used by abortion proponents. The second part (Names Part II: What Do You Mean By Progress?) discussed the illogic of the term progress or progressive when used to promote political movement in the wrong direction. Here, we discuss the term progressive but as applied to members of the Church rather than secular society.
When we look at the term progressive as applied to those in the Catholic Church (as in a “progressive” Catholic or a “progressive” parish), it is even more clear that the term is inappropriate in the extreme. We believe that the Church was founded by Christ and is guided by the Holy Spirit, particularly through the three pillars of sacred scripture, sacred tradition, and the magisterium or teaching authority of the Church. For the believer, these are held as truth. This is an Amen point not up for discussion among Catholics.
When the Church teaches something infallibly, Catholics hold this to be true. But “progressive” Catholics reject what is held as infallible. For example, we have those advocating women priests even though it is counter to the infallible teaching of the Church. There are those who want to argue for abortion even though it is counter to the infallible teaching of the Church. There are those who want to say homosexual behavior is not sinful, even though it is counter to the infallible teaching of the Church. There are those who question the real presence of the Eucharist, even though it is counter to the infallible teaching of the Church. Others want to allow divorce, even though it is counter to the infallible teachings of the Church.
If someone is moving away from the truth, it is not progress. Something that increases our separation from truth is a delusion, it is destructive, it serves evil. A person calling themselves Catholic who advocates against the truths taught by the Church is NOT progressive. Proper labels might include: dissident, heretic, misguided, deluded, or wrongheaded. Our true progress comes in remaining faithful and advancing our relationship with Christ and His Church. It comes from preaching the good news and sharing truth with those around us – not from fighting that very truth.
Those who remain faithful to the Church should avoid using the term progressive in speaking of these dissidents. It appears to legitimize an illegitimate position. It paints a pretty veneer over an ugly problem. Even though a dissident by any other name is still a dissident, calling him otherwise can confuse the ignorant.
