Abstract:

This study argues that Pope Francis’ Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, Amoris Laetitia, is consistent with the Catholic Moral Tradition. There are four issues which, according to certain scholars, diverted from the moral tradition and the Magisterium, namely: conscience and sin, objective moral norms and mitigating factors, admission to the sacraments, and the indissolubility of marriage. A survey of articles and commentaries from theologians and members of the Church hierarchy as well as magisterial documents such as Familiaris Consortio, Veritatis Splendor, Sacramentum Caritatis, Reconciliatio et Paenitentia was made to examine issues of the Exhortation. The study is significant because it aims to clarify contentious questions regarding the document and it proposes approaches to the pastoral care of persons in irregular marital situations.

Final Defense:

Board of Examiners: Fr. Peter Pojol, S.J., S.T.D. (Principal Examiner), Fr. Abundio Babor, Jr., M.S.C., S.T.D., and Fr. Arnel Aquino, S.J., S.T.D.

Proposal Defense:

Board of Examiners: Fr. Eric Marcelo Genilo, S.J., S.T.D. (Adviser), Fr. Abundio Babor, Jr., M.S.C., S.T.D., and Fr. Peter Pojol, S.J., S.T.D.