Vatican issues report on 'limbo'
The theological hypothesis of 'limbo' appears to have been based on an "unduly restrictive view of salvation," according to a report published on Friday by the International Theological Commission. The 41-page document says the issue presents an "urgent pastoral problem" because of the large number of unbaptized babies who die through abortion. It concludes that there are serious theological and liturgical grounds for the hope that such babies are saved and enjoy the beatific vision. The commission's documents are not considered official expressions of the magisterium. But they do help the Holy See examine important doctrinal issues. The Catechism of the Catholic Church in No. 1261 explains: 'As regards children who have died without baptism, the Church can only entrust them to the mercy of God, as she does in her funeral rites for them. 'Indeed, the great mercy of God who desires that all men should be saved, and Jesus' tenderness toward children which caused him to say: 'Let the children come to me, do not hinder them,' allow us to hope that there is a way of salvation for children who have died without baptism.' Source: VIS