For a Moral Theology in Outreach: Untying Knots and Facing Challenges

Abstract

The 100th anniversary of Estudios Eclesiásticos is a very suitable occasion to address the main pastoral, epistemological, anthropological and ecclesiological challenges of Catholic moral theology, in this change of era where border issues are growing and awareness of vulnerability and uncertainty — both at micro and macrosocial levels — become critical. Facing today the huge questions that come from technology, multiculturalism, environmental and social sustainability, growing inequality or human mobility, puts us before the urgent need to untie intra‑ecclesial knots that still grip moral theology, and react to the irrelevance to which digital Postmodernity submits every moral proposal that arises from the Gospel. Following the guidance of the Magisterium of Pope Francis, this article delves into the practical value of discernment to see how from it categories such as people of God, synodality, sensus fidei fidelium, conscience, truth, dialogue, encounter or care can recover strength and vigor to think and live Christian morality.