It is part of being a vibrant church. Leaders can change their minds. It is a sign of strength, especially when a change of heart is well-reasoned and prayed through. Today, people are forcibly evicted from religious communities, denied orthodox ministries, even refused communion because of what conservative elements in the hierarchy believe they are intending with their innermost conscience. I have no problems with conservatives per se, except when they play at being God.
People continue to be punished unjustly for presenting progressive ideas.
Some like Aquinas or Congar will see future vindication. Most suffer in the present. I can assure you that they don't hold parties in advance of a future rehabilitation. The pains inflicted upon people attempting honest dialogue and discernment with the institutional church are very real, rarely taken lightly. I see the whole issue of obedience boils down to discernment.