Expert: Rick Jackson - 5/18/2008

Question
Rick Jackson,

I am very ecumenical at heart. I have learned a lot about Christianity, God, and the Bible since becoming a Christian in 2002. I love to read the Bible, and study theology and apologetics in my free time. Recently, my studying has drawn me to the "doorstep" of the Roman Catholic Church, and I am on the verge of returning. Reading some of these responses from different people is part of this final search.

I read your answer regarding a question you received about Pope Honorius being excommunicated, and part of your answer really bothered me. I'm hoping you could clarify what you meant.

In your response, you said, "God does not 'appoint' Popes; Popes are elected."

Here are my concerns about this response. Could you please address my concerns by correcting me where I have gone wrong  either with my understanding of the office of the papacy or with my understanding of your words?

The papacy is supposed to be an office that is handed down, starting with Jesus' words to Peter in Matthew 16:17-20. In this particular case, the office is appointed by God directly. The teaching of papal succession is also based on the keys that were given to St. Peter (Matthew 16:19). The keys are also referenced in Isaiah 22:22. In this passage, the keys are also taken by God and passed on to another by God.

In this sense, doesn't this mean that the pope can only be appointed by God, and that the Holy Spirit works infallibly through the council when voting for a new pope?

Thanks

Answer
Hello Christopher :)

What Christ told us about his Church is that the gates of Hell will not prevail...and that "I will be with you always".

He did not promise us that His Church's leaders would never err or sin.

Remember that even one of it's founding leaders, chosen by Christ Himself, sinned horribly in choosing Greed over Christ.

I know this is not an easy answer - and I'm sure that someone more learned than I may have a better explanation.

I do hope that you are also, in your searchings, relying on a good local Priest also.

For further reading and reference:

1. The Catechism of the Catholic Church
2. Writings of the earliest Christian leaders
3. Catholic.com

...links to all of the above and more here:
http://catholictruths.com/library/index.html

Peace and Blessings, Christopher.  I and my family will pray especially for you in the upcoming week.

Rick.