Responding to “distorted, partisan and at times bad faith” information, the Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family published clarifications on its new statute on July 29, 2019.
The objective of the twofold course in the Theology and Studies on Marriage and the Family is to foster research, explains the statement. The academic plan approved by the Congregation for Catholic Education, calls for “a greater reflection on the family,” to underscore its “centrality” in the Church and in society.
The Institute, directed by Monsignor Vincenzo Paglia, denies it will do away with the Karol Wojtyla Chair and denies the rumor of a letter of 150 students that lament the innovations. “To date, the academic authorities have received only one letter from the representatives of degree and postgraduate students asking for explanations on the innovations (. . .). All the students were swiftly informed about the innovations and calmed.”
Moreover, the text continues to explain that the statutes regulate with precision the functions of the authorities. The news of the concentration of powers in the hands of the Chancellor is false. Henceforth, for example, the appointment of new professors will be done through public competition.
The text also explains the departure of two professors. Professor Noriega, being the Superior of a Religious Order, could no longer occupy a stable post. And Professor Melina’s Chair of Fundamental Moral Theology no longer existed within the new structure. In fact, if new emphasis is placed on the Morality of Marriage and the Family, by contrast, the teaching is lightened of Fundamental Morality. On the other hand, other professors whose courses were reduced will be offered a future collaboration.
The news of the firing of some of the Institute’s administrative employees “is absolutely false,” concludes the text. “All continue their service, particularly onerous in this period of change.”
