Supersessionism

* John L. Allen writes in "Conclusion on limbo" (NCR, Oct. 20): "Limbo ... a concept that, even if it was never formally defined as a matter of faith, nevertheless represented a widespread consensus in Catholic teaching for centuries."

The same can be said of supersessionism. For nearly two millennia, the church has taught, believed and practiced the doctrine that the church has replaced Israel, that the observances of the Torah are futile for salvation. Innumerable texts, from the Fathers, theologians, decrees of the Holy Office as late as 1928, reflect this.

In contrast, Vatican II, John Paul II and Benedict XVI are telling us, emphatically, that the Old Testament has never been revoked.

If supersessionism was just another theological hypothesis and thus mutable, what about Humanae Vitae, Veritatis Splendor, Ordinatio Sacerdotalis and other such doctrines?

I hope John Allen or another competent reporter will address this issue. It bothers many people.

JOHN VAN COPPENOLLE

San Antonio

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