Cardinal Brislin allowed a dissident group to set up in the diocese of Capetown which supports the ordination of married clergy. Under Brislin’s watch, in 2022 the Capetown archdiocese published a synthesis report as part of its contribution to the Synod on Synodality which said: “In the world of the twenty-first century today, it is important to hold onto the tradition, know its origins, but also to embrace change.” It added: “The strong traditions of the Church are also its weaknesses. The major restrictions that may hinder the progress of the Church are many and varied and include issues such as mandatory celibacy for priests and the prohibition of women priests. Nevertheless, the Holy Spirit of Hope will be with us all as we move forward in faith.”
