The National Catholic Reporter has reported that Deacon William
Ditewig was denied permission to give an address to a meeting of deacons, their
wives, and deacon candidates for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The Archdiocese requires speakers to be
approved by a commission of archdiocesan priests and a lay theologian. Because Deacon Ditewig; who had in the past
been on the staff of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops; is himself a
theologian, and an author of numerous books on the diaconate. He co-authored a book examining the possibility
of women being ordained as deacons.
Although he did not intend to speak about this in his
address, the commission felt that still his presence would cause confusion
among the faithful.
Deacon Ditewig has spoken to numerous deacon
assemblies. I have read several of his
books and essays, and found them informative, inspiring, and a joy to
read. And I believe him to be a loyal
son of the Church.
Our bishops have the responsibility to protect the faithful;
but over zealousness can also prevent the Spirit from working within us,
stifling legitimate theological exploration, that can lead to discernment of
the Father’s will for His Church.
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