Conclavoscope - Cardinal Arthur Roche

Cardinal Profile and Assessment

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Arthur Roche

Arthur Roche

Progressive (32/100)
Personal Information
  • Country United Kingdom
  • Age 75
  • Birth date 6 March 1950
  • Consistory 27 August 2022
Description

British cardinal, Prefect of the Dicastery for Divine Worship, known for his balanced approach between respect for liturgical tradition and openness to reforms.

Theological Profile
criterion tendency
Moral doctrine Moderate-conservative
Liturgy Progressive
Sociopolitical Moderate-progressive
Relationship with Pope Francis Progressive
Dialogue Progressive
Communication Progressive
Overall tendency Progressive
Detailed Assessment by Criterion
Moral doctrine
Moderate-conservative

Cardinal Roche upholds traditional Catholic moral teachings, including opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage. While he has not made extensive public statements on these issues, his alignment with official Church doctrine and his role in enforcing liturgical reforms suggest a commitment to maintaining established moral positions.

Sources:
Liturgy and tradition
Progressive

Despite being Prefect of the Dicastery for Divine Worship, Cardinal Roche has strongly enforced restrictions on the Traditional Latin Mass, describing it as 'overly elaborate' and emphasizing uniformity with the Novus Ordo. His actions reflect a critical stance toward traditionalist liturgical expressions and a preference for post-Vatican II liturgical norms.

Sources:
Sociopolitical engagement
Moderate-progressive

Cardinal Roche has not been prominently involved in sociopolitical issues. His focus remains primarily on liturgical matters, with limited public engagement on topics such as ecology, migration, or social justice. This suggests a moderate stance, neither actively progressive nor overtly conservative in sociopolitical engagement.

Sources:
Relationship with Pope Francis
Progressive

Cardinal Roche is a close collaborator of Pope Francis, having been appointed to key positions within the Vatican's liturgical hierarchy. He has expressed unreserved praise for the Pope and has been a key figure in implementing Francis's liturgical reforms, reflecting strong alignment with the Pope's vision for the Church.

Sources:
Interreligious dialogue and peripheries
Progressive

While Cardinal Roche has not been a leading figure in interreligious dialogue, his previous involvement with organizations like Bradford Churches for Dialogue and Diversity indicates an openness to ecumenical and interfaith engagement, albeit not as a central focus of his ministry.

Sources:
Communication and pastoral style
Progressive

Cardinal Roche is known for his pastoral sensitivity and effective communication, particularly in explaining complex liturgical reforms. He has engaged with both clergy and laity to articulate the rationale behind changes in liturgical practices, demonstrating a communicative style that balances authority with approachability.

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