Fr. Edward Tomlinson, SSC reacts to the “shameful kick in the teeth” from the General Synod’s Revision Committee on women in the episcopate, noting the irony of those in the Church of England who now decry the horrors of papal infallibility.

And in the midst of all this confusion, doubt and fear I am also having to endure a tirade of people warning me about the horrors of Rome! (The only people seeking to offer me sanctuary and the fullness of Catholic truth.) I would not mind if these warnings were given in a reasonable manner to incite healthy debate. But they have come from many sources and are as illogical as they are poisonous! It seems anti-Catholic rhetoric runs deep in the English psyche and the successor of Peter is considered fair target for bigoted vitriol.

The chief moan, rather predictably, centres on papal infallibility. The belief that the Pope, when speaking to the whole church solemnly concerning a matter of faith or morals and under guidance of the Holy Spirit, is preserved from the possibility of error. In truth infallible teaching is almost never proclaimed, the last time was over 50 years ago when the Pope gave credence to the doctrine of the Assumption. It also only happens with teaching that fits the divine revelation and has the backing of Christian tradition. His infallibility is certainly never used to usher in innovation and trendy new ideas.

And that is where I find the irony! Those bashing the pope for his ability to speak infallibly are happy to accept that same gift of infallibility vested in General Synod- a confused and unqualified bunch of volunteers given free reign to decide what the Church of England believes! For make no mistake, by refusing traditionalists space in which to thrive, the revision committee has made infallible the innovation of women priests and bishops. No longer is the Catholic theology of priesthood allowed in our national church. And if you don’t like it- the message is simple- get out or live as soiled goods in the margins.