Gaudete Et Exsultate: Ancient Heresies

[Michaeljc4]

Hi! I have been reading the Pope’s most recent exhortation, and I have a question: in the writing, Pope Francis talks about Gnosticism and Pelagianism, two ancient heresies that he believes are affecting people of the faith in the 21st century. I understand, in general, what he is referring to, but I wonder if someone had some specific, real-world examples? What individual, or group, is currently being influenced by Gnosticism or Pelagianism? I get that the Pope didn’t want to name names…but we can, right?

Any insights?

Thanks!

 

[Genesis315]

The CDF actually issued a letter to bishops letting them know what the Pope is talking about when he speaks of Gnosticism and Pelagianism. It notes how he is only recalling general common features, rather than the precise specifics of each heresy.
http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/c...c_con_cfaith_doc_20180222_placuit-deo_en.html

Neo-Pelagianism is the general belief that we can achieve “salvation” through our own, individual efforts or through human structures–this seems to apply to those anti- or areligious secular philsophies and political theories that dominate our world.

Neo-Gnosticism puts forth a merely subjective, interior salvation–this seems to be the “spiritual, but not religious” kind of mindset.

As the CDF document notes, the remedy to these issues is emphasizing Christ is the unique and only mediator of salvation and the Church as the necessary place where that salvation can be found and received.

 

[Michaeljc4]

That’s very helpful, Genesis315. Thank you so much.

 

[SnowRose]

I saw an interesting snippet from Gaudete et Exsultate at the PrayTell blog. That the neo-pelagism also could refer to overscrupulous adherence to church prescepts.
I can track down the link if needed.

 

[Michaeljc4]

Sure, if you’d like. Thank you!

 

[SnowRose]

Pope Francis on “Punctilious Concern for Liturgy” and Prayer - PrayTellBlog

"The life of the Church can become a museum piece or the possession of a select few."

www.praytellblog.com

As I said, I found it interesting, in the sense of grain in your neighbours eye, beam in your own. It’s very human to be blind to your own fault. (Including myself in that charge, I’m a sinner and a saint both ).