Religion & Law

Here, from Sandro Magister, is the latest on Pope Pius XII. The article, which highlights a recent article in La Civilta Cattolica, discusses the legacy of Pius XII. Pius has been unfairly maligned for his actions during WW II. This latest briefly explores his cautious legacy as Secretariat of State. Perhaps these articles are the beginning of a measured response to Pius XII. Pope Bendict has recently praised Pius XII and it seems likely that Pius XII will eventually be canonized. His life was marked by great holiness and an admirable record on many issues. The report of his caution during his years prior to his papacy demonstrates that the life of an individual is often marked by great complexity and ambiguity. One is left with a sense of humility about how we would have responded to the pressures of that era. It makes it all the more important to hold up the legacy of heroes such as Thomas More and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and of Pius XII even if particular prudential judgments seem difficult to defend today.

Richard M.