Bishop Robert Mutsaerts delivers speech on Church crisis

Robert Mutsaerts, auxiliary bishop of 's-Hertogenbosch, delivered a speech on September 16, 2026, addressing the current crisis within the Catholic Church.

Mutsaerts stated that the Church faces a serious situation because of internal uncertainty regarding fundamental doctrines. He identified several specific areas where the Church is failing to provide clarity, including the definitions of truth, sin, marriage, the priesthood, liturgy, obedience, and mercy. He also questioned whether the Church is clear on what Christ actually entrusted to it.

While acknowledging the gravity of these issues, Mutsaerts noted that the Church has survived previous challenges such as corrupt popes, schisms, and persecutions. He suggested that the Church's continued existence despite human failings serves as evidence of its divine origin.