Book launch “Rigidity” this Saturday

In this new book, Pedro addresses the issue of rigidity, which is much discussed in the Catholic Church today. When Pope Francis criticizes religious rigidity, we Catholics often hear him say, “Why does Pope Francis always criticize faithful Catholics?” In this book, Pedro takes a step back and asks, “Is the Pope really attacking faithful Catholics?” He explores what Pope Francis actually means when he condemns “rigidity,” which is wrongly interpreted by some of his critics as promoting moral and religious laxity.

Pedro Gabriel answers many questions and explains Pope Francis’ teachings on rigidity. He examines the context and the other terms that frequently appear in the Pope’s contributions on this topic. Pedro also tries to correct the misconception that to be a faithful Catholic, one must Be rigid, by thoroughly examining precedents in Church history in which adherence to a rigid approach led the faithful to fall into heterodoxy. In conclusion, Pedro explains that abandoning rigidity does not mean adopting the other extreme of laxity.

In the foreword to the book, Rocco Buttiglione writes:

“Pedro Gabriel gives us a wonderful book about a ‘church on the move’, a plea for the education of a flexible but strong-backed Christian personality who sees in faith no obstacle to the fullness of human life, but a path not only to eternal life, but also to a life here on earth that is a hundred times more human.”

Please join us for the book launch this Saturday, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, at 10 a.m. EDT. Pedro will be holding a question and answer session for anyone interested in learning more about the book and what Pope Francis means by rigidity. You can participate by clicking this link.

Mike Lewis is the founder and editor-in-chief of Where Peter Is. He and Jeannie Gaffigan co-host Field hospitala Catholic podcast from the USA.