Bewildered Quote by Jean Guitton
“When I read the documents relative to the Modernism, as it was defined by Saint Pius X, and when I compare them to the documents of the II Vatican Council, I cannot help being bewildered. For what was condemned as heresy in 1906 was proclaimed as what is and should be from now on the doctrine and method of the Church. In other words, the modernists of 1906 were, somewhat, precursors to me. My masters were part of them. My parents taught me Modernism. How could Saint Pius X reject those that now seem to be my precursors?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 1965, Jean Guitton on Catholic Modernism
The quote reflects the paradox of doctrinal change, where ideas once condemned become accepted, highlighting personal conflict with institutional shifts.
In simple terms: Ideas once condemned become accepted, causing personal conflict.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how doctrines evolve over time.
Themes
faith
doctrine
change
personal conflict
history
Mood
conflicted
thoughtful
Type
theological
reflective
philosophical
When to use this quote
- theological study
- personal reflection
- church debates
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Modernism
hermeneutics
ecclesiology
authority
continuity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile personal upbringing with changing institutional teachings?
- What does this say about the nature of truth in religion?
A Different Perspective
Doctrinal shifts can cause personal dissonance and require reevaluation.
![“It was the final session of the Council, the most essential, in which the Pope [Paul VI] was to bestow upon all humanity the teachings of the Council. He announced this to me on that day with these words, ‘I am about to blow the seven trumpets of the Apocalypse.’” quote by Jean Guitton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0be/jean-guitton-44844_apocalypse_it-was-the-final-session-of-the-council_2320921.jpg)
