Quote:Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández is an Argentinian prelate and theologian who has served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith since July 1, 2023, appointed by Pope Francis.  He is widely recognized as a key theological advisor to Pope Francis and is considered the principal author of the apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia (2016), which addressed family life and pastoral care for the divorced and remarried.

Fernández has authored numerous books, many of which are short, pastoral works published by Latin American publishers. His writings often focus on spirituality, human relationships, and biblical themes. Notable titles include:

• Heal Me with Your Mouth: The Art of Kissing (1995) — a controversial work that sparked significant debate due to its erotic and sensual content.
  
• The Mystical Passion: Spirituality and Sensuality (1998) — a book that was withdrawn shortly after publication and is now considered highly problematic by critics and abuse survivors.
  
• Aparecida: Guía para leer el documento y crónica diaria (2007), which played a key role in shaping the Aparecida Document, a foundational text for Latin American bishops.
  

In recent years, new revelations have emerged about additional texts with explicit sexual content published between 2002 and 2009, prompting further scrutiny.  These include passages [...] linking physical experiences to spiritual states. Fernández has stated he would not write such books today, citing concerns over misinterpretation, and claimed he destroyed remaining copies.

Despite controversy, he remains a central figure in shaping the Church’s doctrinal direction under Pope Francis, with a reputation for progressive theology and a focus on integrating contemplation and action in Christian life.