As noted already, in 1880 Leo XIII ruled out evolution of Eve’s body and thus doomed any attempted synthesis of evolution theory and theology. And Pius XII insisted in Humani Generis (1950) that evolution must not be taught as fact but he allowed discussion between specialists about the possible derivation of Adam’s body from previously living matter. Incredibly, this encyclical, which was aimed strongly against the subtle Modernist subversion being made by evolutionists such as Fr. Teilhard de Chardin SJ, has since been grossly misrepresented to suggest that the Church now officially accepts evolution! But Pius XII’s warning that polygenism (i.e., many first parents) was unacceptable because it endangered the doctrine of Original Sin has not been so ignored; polygenism was effectively rejected in the 1994 CCC (360, footnote 226, ref. RSV Book of Tobit 8:6) endorsed by Pope John Paul II. Let us not forget that the present Holy Father, in his encyclical Fides et Ratio (1998), warned strongly against Scientism and also praised Pius XII for his 1950 encyclical Humani Generis. His private statements on Origins have to be seen in light of earlier, weightier Papal declarations in Catholic Tradition. Let us hope and pray that the Holy Father will see fit soon to issue another encyclical on Origins, further clarifying Catholic teachings about the doctrine of Original Sin, especially for guidance of the young but also for all future generations to consult.
A final thought. Several years ago a pro-evolution book was written by Fr Denis Edwards of Adelaide, South Australia. The book’s title-The God Of Evolution-is especially apt for it speaks volumes about the confusion wrought by evolutionary consciousness within the Catholic Church. In contrast, let us indeed give praise to our great Creator/ Redeemer and reject the myth of evolution, and place Christ the King truly in the center of our lives, and ensure that the true story of Creation and Original Sin is taught clearly to our children and proclaimed to a troubled world. The salvation of souls is at stake and “Christ crucified” means little to those who do not understand why He paid the price of Redemption. Think of how things could be - of the many good fruits which would result in restoration of the Church founded by Christ Himself-if God the Creator were to return to center stage among Catholics generally and in society at large.