Introduction
Here we have conducted an analysis of the book “Mystical Passion” (sometimes called “Mistica Pasionaria” or “Passione Mistica”) written by Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, the current (May 2025) prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. This analysis considers the theological correctness of the book’s content, its alignment with Catholic teaching, and the implications for the office that the cardinal currently holds.
Contextual Framework
Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, a close collaborator of Pope Francis, was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in July 2023. Before that, he served as Archbishop of La Plata in Argentina. This appointment was the subject of significant debate in theological circles, partly due to his earlier written works, including the book “Mystical Passion” published in 1998.
The book deals with themes of mystical spirituality and its relationship with human sexuality, which is not problematic in itself. However, the way these sensitive topics are addressed raises several serious questions from theological and pastoral standpoints.
Theological Content Analysis
1. Problematic Interpretation of Mysticism and Eroticism
Cardinal Fernandez in his book draws parallels between mystical experience and human sexuality in a way that blurs important differences between them. Although the Catholic tradition recognizes that mystics sometimes use erotic-like language to describe spiritual experiences (for example, in the interpretation of the Song of Songs), such language is always used analogously and metaphorically, never literally. The book at times excessively equates mystical experiences with erotic experiences, which is problematic because:
– It reduces the transcendent nature of the encounter with God, bringing it down to the level of bodily experience
– It blurs the essential difference between spiritual and physical pleasure
– It can lead to a dangerous conception of spirituality that is too focused on subjective experiences and feelings
Traditional Catholic mystical theology, as found in St. John of the Cross or St. Teresa of Avila, clearly distinguishes the spiritual “power of the senses” from authentic mystical union, while in certain parts of the book this distinction does not seem sufficiently clear.
2. Inconsistency with Church Magisterium
Several passages of the book show a lack of theological precision and fidelity to tradition, particularly:
– The description of mystical ecstasy uses markedly sensual language that exceeds the boundaries of appropriate analogy
– Insufficient emphasis on the ascetic aspect of mystical life, which is traditionally considered a necessary prerequisite for authentic mystical union
– Selective citation or interpretation of mystical saints in a way that does not reflect the entirety of their teaching
Based on these elements, the book shows significant deviation from the precise and balanced approach found in the Church’s magisterium on mysticism, especially in documents such as “Orationis Formas” (1989) by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which emphasizes the need for theological clarity and prudence in speaking about mystical experiences.
3. Pastoral and Formative Concerns
From a pastoral standpoint, the book raises several serious questions:
– It may lead to confusion among the faithful about the true nature of spiritual life
– It potentially trivializes and eroticizes spiritual realities in a way that does not contribute to authentic spiritual growth
– It does not provide sufficiently clear guidelines for distinguishing authentic spiritual experiences from mere emotional or physical sensations
Canonical Assessment
From a canonical standpoint, it is important to consider the following aspects:
1. Magisterial Authority and Personal Opinions
Canon 752 states that “Although not an assent of faith, a religious submission of the intellect and will must be given to a doctrine which the Supreme Pontiff or the college of bishops declares concerning faith or morals when they exercise the authentic magisterium, even if they do not intend to proclaim it by definitive act; therefore, the Christian faithful are to take care to avoid those things which do not agree with it.”
This raises the question: if a person whose previous writings show problematic theological tendencies is appointed as the guardian of doctrinal correctness, how can one expect that he will faithfully preserve and interpret traditional Catholic teaching?
2. Qualifications for the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith
According to the apostolic constitution “Praedicate Evangelium,” the prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith has the serious responsibility to “promote and protect the integrity of Catholic doctrine on faith and morals.”
Traditionally, this office requires:
– Proven theological precision and fidelity to Church teaching
– The ability to clearly articulate and defend Catholic doctrine
– Avoidance of innovative theological positions that may cause confusion
– Deep knowledge of and respect for the entire tradition of the Church
Considering the content of the book, there are legitimate concerns as to whether Cardinal Fernandez has demonstrated the level of theological precision and fidelity expected of someone in this important role.
Biblical Perspective
Scripture provides clear guidelines on the importance of faithful teaching and the dangers of deviation:
– “Watch yourself and your teaching closely. Persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.” (1 Tim 4:16)
– “Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” (2 Tim 1:14)
– “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Eph 4:29)
Considering these scriptural principles, the question arises: Does “Mystical Passion” reflect the level of theological responsibility and pastoral prudence that Scripture requires of those who teach the faith?
Conclusion and Implications
The theological and canonical analysis of Cardinal Fernandez’s book “Mystical Passion” reveals several serious areas of concern that have direct implications for his office as prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith:
1. **Theological Precision**: The position of prefect requires an exceptional level of theological precision and fidelity to Catholic tradition. The book shows a concerning tendency toward imprecise and potentially confusing theological language.
2. **Doctrinal Continuity**: One of the primary functions of the Dicastery is to ensure continuity in Church teaching. The unconventional approach to mysticism presented in the book raises questions about the author’s understanding and respect for that continuity.
3. **Credibility in Office**: To serve effectively, the prefect must enjoy broad confidence from the theological community and the faithful. The controversial content of this book potentially undermines that credibility.
4. **Testimony of Orthodoxy**: This position requires not only the absence of doctrinal error but positive testimony of orthodoxy in all aspects of theological work.
Final Considerations
Based on theological, canonical, and biblical analysis, the appointment of Cardinal Fernandez to the position of prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith raises serious questions about suitability. The book “Mystical Passion” shows problematic theological tendencies that are not easily reconcilable with the responsibility of preserving doctrinal integrity.
It should be noted that it is possible that Cardinal Fernandez has developed a more mature and precise theological understanding since the time of writing this book. However, there is no clear evidence that he has publicly disavowed the problematic elements of his earlier work or offered a corrective explanation.
In light of these considerations, there are legitimate reasons for concern that this appointment might compromise the effectiveness and credibility of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in its key mission of protecting and promoting Catholic doctrine. This analysis is based on available information about the book and should be understood as a preliminary theological assessment that might require revision with fuller access to the original text.