Liz Wheeler on Pope Leo XIV, Climate Justice, and Spiritual Warfare

Hope and Disappointment with Pope Leo XIV

• 💡 Catholics worldwide are questioning Pope Leo XIV's actions, but there is hope in the enduring spiritual nature of the Catholic Church and the "based" young men entering the priesthood.
• ⚠️ It is demoralizing to see the Pope engaging in "climate justice" events, which is seen as a thin mask for communist political aspirations.
• 🎯 The Pope's engagement with communists and their rituals is considered scandalous and a "near occasion of sin" due to potential confusion for the faithful.

Catholic Doctrine vs. Papal Pronouncements

• 📌 Catholics are not required to accept everything the Pope says as gospel, as papal pronouncements are not always infallible and do not dictate doctrine.
• 💬 Criticizing the Pope as a Catholic should not be conflated with criticism of Catholic doctrine itself, a point often misunderstood by evangelical friends.
• ✅ The Catholic Church's core doctrine, such as the catechism defining communism as from Satan and the Theology of the Body, remains unchanging and provides eternal hope.

Climate Justice vs. Stewardship

• 🌍 While Christians are called to be good stewards of creation, "climate justice" is viewed as an anti-humanity ideology that conflates with this true calling.
• 🗣️ This conflation can be confusing for those not deeply entrenched in reading UN climate conference documents.
• 😔 The Pope's actions are seen as disappointing, though he is noted for some refreshing liturgical tendencies and extending an olive branch to traditional Catholics.

Spiritual Revival and Warfare

• ⚡ A spiritual revival is occurring, accelerated by confronting evil through events like the BLM riots, COVID vaccine mandates, and the murder of Charlie Kirk.
• 🧠 The recognition of evil leads to a search for good, which in turn leads people toward God, fostering an awakening in people's hearts.
• ⚔️ Politics and religion are inseparable, as society is intended to help human flourishing, which includes the liberty to pursue virtue and choose Christ; this is a spiritual warfare, not just political bickering.