Expert: Sal - 12/8/2006

Question
Have Catholics, especially the Vatican, changed their views on Creationism since the scientific "findings" of Evolution, just so Atheists.. how do I say this... don't "win the argument"?

From what I read about what St. Paul (basicly saying that scripture shouldn't be taken as history and science but soley for moral teachings etc) and Augustine (not accepting the "days" in Genesis as 24 hour periods, just spans of time) had believed way back in thoses days, proove that Catholics have always held this view?

That is what I have concluded, that Catholics have always held an open view and such minds of past church Fathers agree with interpreting scripture that way, even before "Evolution" theories.

Just wanted your opinion based on knowledge. Thanks.


Answer
Dear Jenn:

The Catholic Church does not change any teaching just so that it can win an argument. The Catholic Church has allowed for more than one view on the "days" of creation. The actual length of time for each "day" is relatively unimportant. The important thing is that God did create.

Best Wishes,
Sal