One year since the publication of, Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), and it is difficult to recall when a papal document has met such controversy. Four cardinals sent five dubia, or “doubts”, to the Holy Father, expressing their concern about “a grave disorientation and great confusion” arising from the document. Germain Grisez and John Finnis, two distinguished philosophers known for their fidelity to the magisterium, published an open letter asking Francis to condemn eight positions contrary to the Catholic faith that could arise from the “misuse” of his apostolic exhortation.

Other theologians have warned that the Church’s moral teaching is under threat. It is not surprising that some Catholics are confused about whether the Pope is breaking with traditional doctrine.