Sede Vacante | Chapter 1
The smoke of the devil
Welcome to the captivating series of "Sede Vacante," where we embark on a journey to unravel the events that have propelled the Church into a realm of excessive modernization
The winds of change have swept through the corridors of the Church, leaving behind a trail of transformation that raises important questions about the preservation of its authentic doctrines. With a discerning eye, we scrutinize the undeniable shifts that have emerged, challenging the very essence of the beliefs professed by the faithful throughout generations.
It is within this historical context that we embark on an intriguing exploration, seeking to shed light on the implications of these doctrinal changes. Our aim is not to pass judgment, but rather to foster a deeper understanding of the forces at play and the potential consequences they carry.
Throughout this series, we will navigate through the annals of time, tracing the footsteps of pivotal events and examining the motives behind the push for modernization. We invite you to join us on this thought-provoking journey, as we unravel the complexities and ramifications of the path the Church has taken.
Stay tuned for the forthcoming chapters, where we delve deeper into the pivotal moments, voices, and influences that have shaped the landscape of modernization within the Catholic Church. Together, let us engage in meaningful dialogue and seek a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
St. Peter and St. Paul walk on the ruined streets of the Vatican in search of a new Pope, in an illustration based on the account of Blessed Anna Maria Taigi.
Pope Paul VI claimed that the "smoke of Satan" had entered the Church. He stated, "...We would say that, through a mysterious crack, the smoke of Satan has entered the temple of God. There is doubt, uncertainty, problems, restlessness, dissatisfaction, and confrontation. The Church was no longer trusted, and the first pagan prophet spoke to us in some newspaper, with people running after him and asking him if he had the formula for true life. Doubt, as I repeat, had entered our consciousness." Source: Alateia.org
But what is this smoke from the devil?
In the post-Vatican II eras, Pope Paul VI expressed his belief that "...It was believed that, after the Council, sunny days would come for the history of the Church. However, instead, we face days of clouds, storms, darkness, searching, and uncertainty... We try to dig chasms instead of covering them..." Source: Aleteia.org
However, in the post-conciliar times, errors have been seen in the application due to the lack of clarity that the Bishops manifested during this council. We must also acknowledge that there were many Saints who applied this council in the correct way.
The current direction that the Church is taking is not something that has emerged now. On the contrary, it dates back to the historic conclave of 1958. In chapter two, we will share the history of this conclave and, as my brother, your call to spread