Pope Francis has decided to modify the essay of issue 2267 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which deals with the death penalty.

Some have lacked the time to complain that the Pope "changes" Catholic doctrine; others have had plenty of time to praise a Pope who "changes" the dogmas of always. Once again, it is necessary to have the humility and good sense to face the truth without prejudice.

Going deeper into the Word of God and progressing in its understanding or expounding it in a clearer way is not equivalent to changing it.

The new essay states that, "in the light of the Gospel", the Church teaches that "the death penalty is inadmissible". The Gospel is not a dead letter. It is a light that enlightens our minds so that we may understand ever better the order that God has ordained. "The Word of God," the Pope affirmed last October, "cannot be preserved in mothballs, as if it were an old blanket to be protected from moths. No! The Word of God is a dynamic reality, always alive, which progresses and grows.

As the Church progresses, in the light of the Gospel, in understanding the law of God, she expresses and formulates it more adequately. And that is what the Pope has just done with regard to this matter of the death penalty.

No novelty, therefore, no "change" in Catholic doctrine.

But, at the same time, the Pope's teaching reminds us of an exciting and ever new truth: the Word of God is alive, and Christ continues to move hearts through his Church, because he is determined to establish a kingdom of love, justice and peace.