

Larry Chapp hosts a panel discussion on moral theology in the Church today
Jul 4, 2025
Matthew Duganzik, an expert on moral theology, Tom Harmon, focused on evangelization, Patrick Jones, a voice in social justice, and David Dean, a systematic theologian, engage in a thought-provoking discussion on moral theology today. They analyze the evolution of moral thought post-Vatican II, emphasizing the balance between tradition and contemporary relevance. The panel addresses moral complexities in a diverse society, exploring intrinsic evils and the impact of technology on morality, ultimately seeking to redefine ethical teachings for modern challenges.
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Vatican II's Moral Theology Reform
- Vatican II called for reform to moral theology, critiquing the manuals for focusing too much on law and sin instead of love and holiness.
- Modern moral theology has shifted away from strict sin-focus, sometimes losing effective methodological tools in the process.
Ontological Loss in Moral Theology
- A core problem in post-Vatican II moral theology was losing ontological reality behind acts, turning sin narrowly into legalistic terms.
- This vagueness led to decades of confusion and untranslatable frameworks among moral theologians.
Moral Theology in Evangelization
- Moral theology plays a central role in evangelization by revealing the truth about human flourishing based on gospel teachings.
- The Church's deep moral tradition can powerfully respond to contemporary cultural movements by explaining their insights thoroughly.