An Ecclesiological Perspective on the Challenge of Plurality within Church

Abstract

Processes of modernization in Latin America have not accelerated the end of religions, as declared by some proponents of Secularization Theory, but have caused a transformation in the forms of participation and sense of belonging, which are characterized by pluralization of groups and religious contents. In general terms, the religious field has become more plural and diverse; and, at the same time, an internal pluralization of Catholicism has been observed. Beginning with the Second Vatican Council, Catholic Church acknowledges the action of the Holy Spirit, by spreading gifts and charismas to improve the stable structure of the ecclesial community. The Church has transformed herself by recognizing the contribution of renovation and edification of personal and communal charismas, innovative pastoral practices, new forms of organizing laity, and multiple ways of aggregation of believers, all of which are an expression of her charismatic diversity. These new features are the response to the diverse symbolic necessities of Catholic believers, and it is the responsibility of the ecclesial community to accompany a healthy integration and to the judgement about its value and validity. Every historical moment fosters processes of innovation that alter the stable structure of the Church and renovate the tension between innovative and institutional features. Thus, no longer it is the sole responsibility of the hierarchical gifts, but a synodal responsibility of the entire ecclesial community to accompany and judge whether the new pastoral practices and aggregation of believers are valid alternatives. Our time demands a peculiar attention to possible sectarian deviations to this judgment, as well as developing safe environments, which prevent any form of sexual abuse, abuse of power, or abuse of conscience.