Dear Editors of Catholic Exchange:
Is the Index of Forbidden Books still being used in the Church today? I looked this up in the Catholic Encyclopedia (just to verify), but the latter was published in 1908. Has there been a revision of late?
Thanks,
Roy Pagay
Dear Mr. Pagay,
Peace in Christ! The Index of Forbidden Books is no longer issued by the Catholic Church. According to the New Catholic Encyclopedia (1968), the Index was abolished in early 1966 by Cardinal Alfredo Ottaviani, Prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine of Faith (CDF). It remains now as a historical document.
Many took this to mean that the books once on the list are now encouraged or approved. In response to this interpretation, the CDF pointed out that while individuals are no longer bound by ecclesiastical law, they are still bound by the moral law which precedes and supersedes ecclesiastical law. “The Index retains its moral force, inasmuch as it warns the Christian conscience to be on guard, as the natural law itself requires, against those writings which can endanger the faith or good morals” (June 14, 1966; AAS vol. 58, 445).
Because it is part of the duty of the Church to protect the integrity of the Faith, the Church is still able to make judgments on the moral character of books and other writings. She has the obligation to be watchful of works that could lead the faithful astray and take appropriate action, including public disapproval of such works. In addition, works regarding religion, morals, Scripture, catechesis, and other such areas are subject to the approval of the local Bishop (cf. Code of Canon Law, canons 822-32).
I hope this answers your question. If you have further questions on this or would like more information about Catholics United for the Faith, please contact us at 1-800-MY-FAITH (693-2484). Please keep us in your prayers as we endeavor to “support, defend, and advance the efforts of the teaching Church.”
United in the Faith,
Amy Barragree
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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