Dutch cardinal, Archbishop of Utrecht, physician and bioethicist, known for his very conservative positions on bioethical and moral issues, and his defense of traditional doctrine.
| Criterion | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Moral doctrine | Very conservative |
| Liturgy | Very conservative |
| Sociopolitical | Conservative |
| Relationship with Pope Francis | Conservative |
| Dialogue | Moderate |
| Communication | Moderate-conservative |
| Overall tendency | Conservative |
Born on June 22, 1953, in Duivendrecht, Netherlands, Willem Jacobus Eijk is one of the few European cardinals to combine rigorous scientific training with solid theological expertise. Before entering the seminary, he studied medicine at the University of Amsterdam and briefly practiced as a physician. He then obtained a doctorate in medical bioethics from the University of Leiden, followed by a doctorate in philosophy from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome.
Ordained a priest in 1985 for the diocese of Roermond, he taught medical ethics and moral theology, while serving on the board of the Dutch pro-life medical association. In 1999, he was appointed Bishop of Groningen-Leeuwarden, then in 2007, Metropolitan Archbishop of Utrecht. He was created a cardinal by Benedict XVI at the consistory of February 18, 2012. (Dutch Willem Jacobus Eijk Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty ...)
Cardinal Eijk is a member of several Roman dicasteries, including the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Health. He is also known for his public statements on bioethical issues, sexual morality, and doctrinal fidelity, particularly in the context of a highly secularized Dutch Church.
Cardinal Eijk is clearly identified as a representative of the conservative current. He has expressed criticism of the synodal process in Germany and of certain orientations of the Synod on Synodality, warning against the risks of doctrinal confusion and ecclesial fragmentation. He advocates for the centrality of the Roman magisterium and strict fidelity to Catholic doctrine.
Although not among the most high-profile figures in the College of Cardinals, Eijk enjoys a certain esteem among cardinals attached to tradition and doctrinal clarity. His election by Benedict XVI places him in the line of cardinals appointed for their fidelity to the magisterium. However, his influence remains limited compared to more central figures in the Curia or in major global dioceses.
Cardinal Eijk is a staunch defender of traditional Catholic moral teachings. He has consistently opposed abortion, labeling it an 'intrinsic evil,' and has been critical of gender theory, viewing it as a threat to Christian anthropology and the proclamation of the Gospel. He also maintains that same-sex relationships cannot be blessed, as they contradict God's order of creation.
Cardinal Eijk emphasizes the importance of traditional liturgy and doctrine. He has warned against deviations from the universal Church's teachings and liturgical practices, drawing parallels between contemporary synodal discussions and past events that led to secularization in the Netherlands.
While Cardinal Eijk has addressed societal issues, his primary focus remains on spiritual and doctrinal matters. He has highlighted the challenges of secularization and the need for the Church to maintain its teachings amidst societal changes.
Cardinal Eijk has expressed concerns about certain decisions made during Pope Francis's pontificate. He criticized the lack of clarity in the Pope's response to the German bishops' proposal on intercommunion and has called for definitive teachings on contentious issues to prevent confusion among the faithful.
Cardinal Eijk acknowledges the importance of interreligious dialogue but emphasizes that it should not compromise core Catholic doctrines. He has participated in discussions but remains cautious about theological relativism.
Known for his clear and direct communication style, Cardinal Eijk does not shy away from addressing controversial topics. He emphasizes the need for the Church to provide unambiguous teachings to guide the faithful in a secularized society.
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Canada
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