SPECIAL FEATURE: Ten Years after Amoris Laetitia – Part II

Rev. Prof. Eamon Conway noted that different perspectives remain regarding Communion for Catholics who are divorced and civilly remarried. Writing for The Record, Conway suggested that some disagreements stem from an incomplete understanding of the apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia, even following magisterial clarifications in 2023.

Conway stated that a general prohibition on receiving Communion is easier to manage than the pastoral work of helping individuals reach mature judgment. He argued that pastoral conversion requires the Church to form consciences through listening, prayer, and reflection rather than replacing individual conscience. He noted that those performing this work require proper formation and the maturity to guide others without usurping their responsibility.

The professor also highlighted the need to support young people who attempt to live their faith and prepare for Christian marriage despite cultural pressures. He shared an example of a couple preparing for marriage in November who requested to study Amoris Laetitia chapter by chapter over the past year.