Priest Says He Will Fight Vatican Ban (Press, 22 August 1986)

In a significant case of conflict between an American priest and the Vatican, Rev. Charles Curran has announced his intention to contest an order from the Vatican that bars him from teaching theology at the Catholic University of America. This decision comes as the Vatican claims that Curran's views on various sexual issues contradict the traditional teachings of the Catholic Church. During a news conference held on 21 August 1986, Curran expressed his determination to fight for his right to educate on theological matters, asserting that he has consistently grounded his moral theology in widely accepted Catholic principles. The Vatican's formal announcement, made just a day prior, deemed Father Curran unsuitable for teaching Catholic theology due to his positions on contentious issues such as abortion, euthanasia, birth control, premarital intercourse, and homosexual acts, which he argues may be permissible under certain circumstances. While acknowledging that he occasionally dissents from the Church's official teachings, Curran emphasized that such dissent exists within a broader context of assent to fundamental Catholic doctrine. The priest suggested that the Vatican's actions might be influenced by a desire to set a precedent, particularly given the existing tensions between the Vatican and the American Catholic Church. A notable expression of support for Curran has emerged, with over 750 theologians signing a statement affirming his right to academic freedom and the necessity of allowing dissent on complex moral issues that do not pertain to the Church's infallible teachings. Rev. Curran articulated that his disagreements relate to nuanced actions influenced by a variety of circumstances, and he underscored the importance of fostering an environment where differing viewpoints can be addressed within the Church. This ongoing dispute follows a seven-year struggle between Curran and the Vatican, which has garnered backing from key American Catholic leaders, including Archbishop of Washington, James Hickey. Hickey has stated that Catholic educators are expected to uphold the doctrines of the Church. As for the immediate implications of the Vatican's directive, Curran remains on leave from his teaching responsibilities at the Catholic University, where he has a contractual obligation to instruct in theology but is currently not exercising that role. Notably, the Vatican's order does not impede Curran's ability to perform priestly functions, such as celebrating Mass. Moving forward, Curran plans to seek both legal and academic counsel to formulate a response to the Vatican's decision.

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