Magisterium & The Moral Theologian

The relation of theologians with the ordinary magisterium of the Church appears to be going through a particularly difficult time at present. One of the sources of difficulty consists in the changes which can be observed in the teaching of the ordinary magisterium itself. Some difficulties are caused by the relationship between the magisterium and theological research. In order to get to the roots of problems - which are often very real ones arising from the-culture or the pastoral needs of modern life - theology is often obliged to advance new hypotheses or tentative solutions which are not yet sufficiently tested to convince all, including the very authorities of the magisterium. The inevitable question arises as to the extent to which a non-infallible teaching is binding, especially if one has, or appears to have, serious motives for doubting it or even for abandoning it altogether. At all events, these difficulties oblige us to deepen our understanding of the nature and office of the Church's ordinary magisterium in order that the obedience we owe to it may be more fully justified and enlightened, for such an obedience is necessary to anyone who wishes to maintain the bond of unity with the Church. Dr. Felix Podimattam is one of the best-known moral theologians in India and outside. Besides his full time job as a professor, he finds time to write books at an amazing rate. He has authored 71 books. Besides his Master's degree in Political Science from the University of Mysore, he holds a Licentiate in Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome, and subsequently a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the Alphosian Academy, Rome, His post-doctoral studies were pursued in Washington, DC, U.S.A. At Present he is professor of moral theology at St. Francis Theological College, Kottayam, Kerala.