I love Father Z. And I think in the long term, yes, he has been more vocal, but I also think that he has been more frustrated. As am I. And honestly, from vigano, and questionable statements from the Pope and a lack of clarification and some widening of gaps in the Church (you cannot deny that) I think Fr. Z is a person one can go to for some real solid advice and theology. Yes, sometimes it gets sensational, but he often just puts stuff out there and comments on it. He does this with both the left and right. (remember the "nuns on the bus?)
But let’s address the big (S) word here. In the very beginning of the current papacy Fr. Z was an incredible proponent of the idea of “Reading Francis through Benedict” He proposed and really argued for this idea that there was a “hermenutic of continuity” between the two papcies and they were very similar. He held onto this position for a long time. Longer than I cared for and honestly it cost him intellectual chops in my mind. Because, he had to abandon that when it became almost ridiculous to suggest. No where has Fr Z. Been anywhere near sedevactism. He is a man, who like me, obviously prefers the last pope to the current one, but in no way thinks the current pope is not the ACTUAL pope.
I do think there is a nostalgia for Benedict because though parts of his papacy can be criticized, he was first and foremost a theologian and probably “doctor of the Church” level. Where Francis has denied being a “theologian” and is more of a dialogue leader.
The papacy, and the Church as a whole has lost a lot of authority under this papacy. Much of which might not be different under any other Pope. But nonetheless, the Church while taking every opportunity to speak on political issues has failed miserable in defense of moral ones. Marriage, Communion, SS"M" adultery, abortion, the sacrament of marriage, the sacrament of holy orders, have been important issue that are not able to be defended by the Church. Be it because of the scandals, or the strategy of ambiguity for dialogue that has been employed.
It makes many long for a simpler time and honestly a “simpler” papacy. But that nostalgia cannot override the obedience and trust we have in the office. And any sede, or even Fr. Z himself would do better to look to the future than wonder about the past. This will be sorted out by this pope or a future pope. And in the life of the Church it will be sorted out in short order. Because the divide and the ambiguity cannot support the pillars of this Church.
Fr. Z often says that each papacy is a parenthisis in the life of the Church. And with aged popes, they are but a parenthesis in our own lives (most likely)
Though I am not theologically aligned with this Pope, I am Catholic enough, and I am trusting of God enough that I know that Francis is the man for this time, I just don’t know how long this time is.
Sedevactism is not and will not be a legitimate position to hold.
Far more concerning is the lost authority to lead and teach and shepherd that the Church has given up on the scandals that not only are being revealed but are currently happening to many of us.
