Pope Francis beautifully goes through the characteristics of a modern saint, meek, poor in spirit, merciful, with a clean heart, working for peace, etc., and shows us two subtle enemies to combat.
In an appendix, we relate these ideas presented by the Pope to the organic and mechanistic thinking developed by Fr. Kentenich, given the clear connection between the two, and since we are convinced that the future of the Church and the world depends on our developing the organic mentality and living according to it.
This presentation was given on August 10, 2013 to the parish catechetical leaders in Savannah, GA. The first half is the importance of continually forming yourself and the second half is about forming your catechists . Ongoing formation is important for all of us.
Gaudete et exultate ch 2 - two suble enemies of holinessMartin M Flynn
This document discusses two subtle enemies of holiness - gnosticism and pelagianism. It describes how gnosticism relies too heavily on subjective experience and knowledge over charity. Pelagianism mistakenly believes that salvation is based on human willpower rather than God's grace. The document warns that we must approach doctrine with humility and avoid becoming rigid in our thinking. We are saved by God's freely given grace, not by our own works, and we should cooperate with grace through humble acceptance of God's gifts.
The document discusses the need for the Seventh-day Adventist Church to adapt its approach to stewardship and ministry to remain relevant in a changing world. It notes that the church's focus needs to shift from money and programs to developing disciples of Jesus Christ. The church also needs more flexible systems to connect with people. The conclusion emphasizes that stewardship should be viewed as a spiritual way of life that affirms God and is consistent with the church's mission to tell the world about Jesus. Initiatives are proposed to develop stewardship education curriculum and resources for various groups.
The document provides information about Lent and the Easter Triduum. It discusses that Lent is the 40-day period before Easter focusing on self-examination and fasting. Ash Wednesday recognizes mortality and repentance through ashes. The number 40 symbolizes testing and renewal. The Easter Triduum commemorates Jesus' last supper, trial, crucifixion, time in the tomb, and resurrection. John 19 scripture discusses Jesus' pierced side and fulfillment of prophecy. The Easter Vigil celebrates Christ's resurrection as the high point of the year.
Pope Francis in the fifth year of his papacy publishes his third apostolic exhortation, titled Gaudete et Exsultate which means ‘Rejoice and be Glad’. The subject of document is “the call to holiness in today’s world.” The pontiff launches a plain, fundamental message, showing that what matters, what is the essential to Christian life is to ‘seek and find God in all things.’
This document discusses the nature and practice of prayer from both a biblical and theological perspective. It begins by providing definitions of prayer from various spiritual figures. It then outlines different forms of Christian prayer like blessing, adoration, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. The document also discusses expressions of prayer like vocal, meditative, and contemplative prayer. It provides guidance on obstacles to prayer and sources that can aid prayer, using the Lord's Prayer as a model. Overall, the document serves as a comprehensive overview of the theology and practice of Christian prayer.
1) The document provides steps for making a good confession, including examining one's conscience, feeling perfect sorrow for sins, promising to avoid temptation, confessing sins to a priest, and doing the assigned penance.
2) It explains the difference between imperfect sorrow (being sorry out of fear of punishment) and perfect sorrow (being truly sorry for offending God).
3) The story of the two thieves crucified next to Jesus illustrates that Jesus forgave the thief who had perfect sorrow for his sins. The document encourages feeling perfect sorrow in order to receive forgiveness from God.
The document summarizes the theme and objectives of WABI 2015, which focused on Mary, a woman of humility, simplicity, and charity. It then provides details on the annunciation, nativity, visitation, and the virtues of humility, simplicity, and charity that Mary exemplified. It encourages developing these virtues through prayer, community, and proclaiming the good news of Christ.
This presentation was given on August 10, 2013 to the parish catechetical leaders in Savannah, GA. The first half is the importance of continually forming yourself and the second half is about forming your catechists . Ongoing formation is important for all of us.
Gaudete et exultate ch 2 - two suble enemies of holinessMartin M Flynn
This document discusses two subtle enemies of holiness - gnosticism and pelagianism. It describes how gnosticism relies too heavily on subjective experience and knowledge over charity. Pelagianism mistakenly believes that salvation is based on human willpower rather than God's grace. The document warns that we must approach doctrine with humility and avoid becoming rigid in our thinking. We are saved by God's freely given grace, not by our own works, and we should cooperate with grace through humble acceptance of God's gifts.
The document discusses the need for the Seventh-day Adventist Church to adapt its approach to stewardship and ministry to remain relevant in a changing world. It notes that the church's focus needs to shift from money and programs to developing disciples of Jesus Christ. The church also needs more flexible systems to connect with people. The conclusion emphasizes that stewardship should be viewed as a spiritual way of life that affirms God and is consistent with the church's mission to tell the world about Jesus. Initiatives are proposed to develop stewardship education curriculum and resources for various groups.
The document provides information about Lent and the Easter Triduum. It discusses that Lent is the 40-day period before Easter focusing on self-examination and fasting. Ash Wednesday recognizes mortality and repentance through ashes. The number 40 symbolizes testing and renewal. The Easter Triduum commemorates Jesus' last supper, trial, crucifixion, time in the tomb, and resurrection. John 19 scripture discusses Jesus' pierced side and fulfillment of prophecy. The Easter Vigil celebrates Christ's resurrection as the high point of the year.
Pope Francis in the fifth year of his papacy publishes his third apostolic exhortation, titled Gaudete et Exsultate which means ‘Rejoice and be Glad’. The subject of document is “the call to holiness in today’s world.” The pontiff launches a plain, fundamental message, showing that what matters, what is the essential to Christian life is to ‘seek and find God in all things.’
This document discusses the nature and practice of prayer from both a biblical and theological perspective. It begins by providing definitions of prayer from various spiritual figures. It then outlines different forms of Christian prayer like blessing, adoration, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. The document also discusses expressions of prayer like vocal, meditative, and contemplative prayer. It provides guidance on obstacles to prayer and sources that can aid prayer, using the Lord's Prayer as a model. Overall, the document serves as a comprehensive overview of the theology and practice of Christian prayer.
1) The document provides steps for making a good confession, including examining one's conscience, feeling perfect sorrow for sins, promising to avoid temptation, confessing sins to a priest, and doing the assigned penance.
2) It explains the difference between imperfect sorrow (being sorry out of fear of punishment) and perfect sorrow (being truly sorry for offending God).
3) The story of the two thieves crucified next to Jesus illustrates that Jesus forgave the thief who had perfect sorrow for his sins. The document encourages feeling perfect sorrow in order to receive forgiveness from God.
The document summarizes the theme and objectives of WABI 2015, which focused on Mary, a woman of humility, simplicity, and charity. It then provides details on the annunciation, nativity, visitation, and the virtues of humility, simplicity, and charity that Mary exemplified. It encourages developing these virtues through prayer, community, and proclaiming the good news of Christ.
This document contains excerpts from John 3:16-21 discussing God's love for the world and sending his son Jesus not to condemn but to save. It then discusses the three types of Advent: preparation for Jesus' promise of salvation, his ascension to heaven and second coming, and his daily presence in our lives. It provides details on the liturgical meaning and symbols of Advent and how it marks the beginning of the church calendar. It encourages internal reflection during Advent through acts like confession and prayer. The rest discusses the meaning of gifts and how we can gift others with our time, care, and presence as we prepare for Christmas.
The document discusses the key events and outcomes of Vatican II and the papacies of John Paul II and Francis. Vatican II was the most recent ecumenical council that took place from 1962-1965, producing 16 documents. It addressed issues like the role of bishops, liturgical renewal, ecumenism, and an active role for laity. John Paul II had one of the longest papacies and was known as the pilgrim pope for his extensive international travels. He emphasized universal holiness and a New Evangelization. Pope Francis was elected in 2013 after Benedict XVI became the first pope to retire in centuries.
This document is a summary of Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation "Gaudete et Exsultate" on the call to holiness in today's world. It contains an introduction and five chapters which call all Christians to holiness and discuss things like discernment, spiritual combat, and signs of holiness. The Pope emphasizes that holiness is not limited to a few great saints, but that God calls all people to become holy through their everyday lives and activities.
The document discusses different types of prayer including prayers of blessing, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. It also covers the parts of the Catholic Mass including introductory rites, liturgy of the word, liturgy of the Eucharist, communion rite, and concluding rite. Finally, it discusses the seven deadly sins and gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit.
There are 5 main parts to the Catholic mass: 1) Introductory Rites which include entrance hymns, greetings, and opening prayers; 2) Liturgy of the Word involving scripture readings and a homily; 3) Liturgy of the Eucharist where the bread and wine are consecrated and become the body and blood of Christ; 4) Communion Rite during which communion is received; and 5) Concluding Rite with final blessings before dismissal. Each part involves traditional rituals and prayers that make the mass meaningful for worshippers.
Introduction to Sacraments (Sacraments and Sacramentals)taborian
The document discusses the Catholic Church's teachings on sacraments and sacramentals based on the Constitution on the Liturgy. It defines sacraments as efficacious signs of grace instituted by Christ to dispense divine life. Sacramentals signify spiritual effects obtained through the Church's intercession. The document then provides summaries of each of the seven sacraments - Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony - outlining their purpose, essential rites, and effects according to Catholic doctrine.
The document discusses how to pray according to Jesus' teachings in the Lord's Prayer. It covers avoiding hypocritical and vain prayers, the importance of closet praying, fellowship with God rather than babbling, and that God knows our needs. The key aspects of praying the Jesus Way are being authentic pray-ers, communing with God privately through asking for our needs and His restoration.
El documento resume las diferentes partes de la misa católica. Comienza con los ritos iniciales como el canto de entrada, el saludo y el acto penitencial. Luego describe la Liturgia de la Palabra que incluye las lecturas bíblicas, el salmo, el evangelio y la homilía. Finalmente, explica la Liturgia Eucarística y los ritos finales que concluyen la misa.
The document discusses the mission and purpose of the church as established by God. It argues that the church is a divine institution with a divine purpose to worship God in spirit and truth. The church's mission is to perfect the saints, do the work of ministry, and build up the body of Christ by preaching the gospel to the lost. It asserts that the church's purpose is not social, recreational, for domestic relations, business, or politics, but solely to preach the gospel for the saving of souls according to God's eternal plan and pattern revealed in scripture.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity who has been present since Creation. He is described through many symbols including wind, fire, a dove, and anointing with oil. The Holy Spirit gives gifts to believers and manifests Christ, making him present through the Church, sacraments, and helping believers understand and live out their faith.
The document provides information about Mary and the four last things:
1) Mary is called the 'Mother of God' because she was the mother of Jesus Christ, who is both true God and true man. She remained a virgin and was assumed body and soul into heaven.
2) The four last things are death, judgment, heaven, and hell. Death is the separation of the soul and body. After death comes judgment by God, followed by an eternal destiny of either heaven or hell.
3) Heaven is being in the presence of God forever, while hell is eternal separation from God due to rejecting him.
The document outlines three dimensions of the Christian faith: doctrine, morals, and worship. It aims to make readers familiar with these dimensions and appreciate the importance of integrated catechesis, or religious education that combines all three dimensions. An effective catechesis teaches the core beliefs or doctrine of Christianity (head), inspires moral values and commitments to service (hands), and fosters community, prayer, and celebration (heart).
The document examines evidence for who Jesus Christ claimed to be based on testimony from various sources. It discusses what people in Jesus' time said about him, including that he taught with authority and some believed him to be the Messiah. It also examines what Jesus himself claimed, including that he could forgive sins, was the Son of God and eternal. The document argues that either Jesus' claims were true, making him the Son of God, or he was a liar based on the eyewitness testimony and fulfilled prophecies about the Messiah.
The document discusses the spirituality of the Eucharist in the Catholic Church. It covers the origins of the Eucharist in the resurrection of Christ and appearances to disciples. It then summarizes key parts of the Catholic mass including the liturgy of the word, Eucharistic prayer, breaking of bread, and communion. It emphasizes that Christ is present in the Eucharistic species, proclaimed word, and gathered assembly. The social dimension of the Eucharist is also highlighted through quotes calling Catholics to honor Christ in those in need.
This weekend we had a Reflection Retreat for our RCIA and this is what they shared. It is good material for anyone...to reflect on what calls you to your faith and to know that God is the one who is in control.
The Mass or Eucharist is the central act of worship in the Catholic Church, which it describes as "the source and summit of the Christian life". It consists of two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word, involving readings from scripture and a homily; and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, which includes the consecration of bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ and Holy Communion. The term "Mass" comes from the Latin word missa, originally meaning "dismissal" but took on a deeper meaning referring to "mission".
The document discusses the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It describes the sacraments of initiation which include Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. It then explains the sacraments of healing which are Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick. Finally, it discusses the sacraments of commitment which are Holy Orders and Matrimony. For each sacrament, it provides details on their significance, rituals, effects and those who can administer them according to Catholic doctrine.
Este documento describe los siete sacramentos de la Iglesia Católica. Explica brevemente cada uno de los sacramentos, incluyendo sus orígenes bíblicos y desarrollo doctrinal. También analiza conceptos teológicos clave como la presencia real de Cristo en la Eucaristía y el poder de perdonar los pecados. El documento proporciona una visión general de la comprensión católica de los sacramentos como medios eficaces de gracia instituidos por Cristo para santificar a los
This document contains excerpts from John 3:16-21 discussing God's love for the world and sending his son Jesus not to condemn but to save. It then discusses the three types of Advent: preparation for Jesus' promise of salvation, his ascension to heaven and second coming, and his daily presence in our lives. It provides details on the liturgical meaning and symbols of Advent and how it marks the beginning of the church calendar. It encourages internal reflection during Advent through acts like confession and prayer. The rest discusses the meaning of gifts and how we can gift others with our time, care, and presence as we prepare for Christmas.
The document discusses the key events and outcomes of Vatican II and the papacies of John Paul II and Francis. Vatican II was the most recent ecumenical council that took place from 1962-1965, producing 16 documents. It addressed issues like the role of bishops, liturgical renewal, ecumenism, and an active role for laity. John Paul II had one of the longest papacies and was known as the pilgrim pope for his extensive international travels. He emphasized universal holiness and a New Evangelization. Pope Francis was elected in 2013 after Benedict XVI became the first pope to retire in centuries.
This document is a summary of Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation "Gaudete et Exsultate" on the call to holiness in today's world. It contains an introduction and five chapters which call all Christians to holiness and discuss things like discernment, spiritual combat, and signs of holiness. The Pope emphasizes that holiness is not limited to a few great saints, but that God calls all people to become holy through their everyday lives and activities.
The document discusses different types of prayer including prayers of blessing, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. It also covers the parts of the Catholic Mass including introductory rites, liturgy of the word, liturgy of the Eucharist, communion rite, and concluding rite. Finally, it discusses the seven deadly sins and gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit.
There are 5 main parts to the Catholic mass: 1) Introductory Rites which include entrance hymns, greetings, and opening prayers; 2) Liturgy of the Word involving scripture readings and a homily; 3) Liturgy of the Eucharist where the bread and wine are consecrated and become the body and blood of Christ; 4) Communion Rite during which communion is received; and 5) Concluding Rite with final blessings before dismissal. Each part involves traditional rituals and prayers that make the mass meaningful for worshippers.
Introduction to Sacraments (Sacraments and Sacramentals)taborian
The document discusses the Catholic Church's teachings on sacraments and sacramentals based on the Constitution on the Liturgy. It defines sacraments as efficacious signs of grace instituted by Christ to dispense divine life. Sacramentals signify spiritual effects obtained through the Church's intercession. The document then provides summaries of each of the seven sacraments - Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony - outlining their purpose, essential rites, and effects according to Catholic doctrine.
The document discusses how to pray according to Jesus' teachings in the Lord's Prayer. It covers avoiding hypocritical and vain prayers, the importance of closet praying, fellowship with God rather than babbling, and that God knows our needs. The key aspects of praying the Jesus Way are being authentic pray-ers, communing with God privately through asking for our needs and His restoration.
El documento resume las diferentes partes de la misa católica. Comienza con los ritos iniciales como el canto de entrada, el saludo y el acto penitencial. Luego describe la Liturgia de la Palabra que incluye las lecturas bíblicas, el salmo, el evangelio y la homilía. Finalmente, explica la Liturgia Eucarística y los ritos finales que concluyen la misa.
The document discusses the mission and purpose of the church as established by God. It argues that the church is a divine institution with a divine purpose to worship God in spirit and truth. The church's mission is to perfect the saints, do the work of ministry, and build up the body of Christ by preaching the gospel to the lost. It asserts that the church's purpose is not social, recreational, for domestic relations, business, or politics, but solely to preach the gospel for the saving of souls according to God's eternal plan and pattern revealed in scripture.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity who has been present since Creation. He is described through many symbols including wind, fire, a dove, and anointing with oil. The Holy Spirit gives gifts to believers and manifests Christ, making him present through the Church, sacraments, and helping believers understand and live out their faith.
The document provides information about Mary and the four last things:
1) Mary is called the 'Mother of God' because she was the mother of Jesus Christ, who is both true God and true man. She remained a virgin and was assumed body and soul into heaven.
2) The four last things are death, judgment, heaven, and hell. Death is the separation of the soul and body. After death comes judgment by God, followed by an eternal destiny of either heaven or hell.
3) Heaven is being in the presence of God forever, while hell is eternal separation from God due to rejecting him.
The document outlines three dimensions of the Christian faith: doctrine, morals, and worship. It aims to make readers familiar with these dimensions and appreciate the importance of integrated catechesis, or religious education that combines all three dimensions. An effective catechesis teaches the core beliefs or doctrine of Christianity (head), inspires moral values and commitments to service (hands), and fosters community, prayer, and celebration (heart).
The document examines evidence for who Jesus Christ claimed to be based on testimony from various sources. It discusses what people in Jesus' time said about him, including that he taught with authority and some believed him to be the Messiah. It also examines what Jesus himself claimed, including that he could forgive sins, was the Son of God and eternal. The document argues that either Jesus' claims were true, making him the Son of God, or he was a liar based on the eyewitness testimony and fulfilled prophecies about the Messiah.
The document discusses the spirituality of the Eucharist in the Catholic Church. It covers the origins of the Eucharist in the resurrection of Christ and appearances to disciples. It then summarizes key parts of the Catholic mass including the liturgy of the word, Eucharistic prayer, breaking of bread, and communion. It emphasizes that Christ is present in the Eucharistic species, proclaimed word, and gathered assembly. The social dimension of the Eucharist is also highlighted through quotes calling Catholics to honor Christ in those in need.
This weekend we had a Reflection Retreat for our RCIA and this is what they shared. It is good material for anyone...to reflect on what calls you to your faith and to know that God is the one who is in control.
The Mass or Eucharist is the central act of worship in the Catholic Church, which it describes as "the source and summit of the Christian life". It consists of two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word, involving readings from scripture and a homily; and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, which includes the consecration of bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ and Holy Communion. The term "Mass" comes from the Latin word missa, originally meaning "dismissal" but took on a deeper meaning referring to "mission".
The document discusses the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It describes the sacraments of initiation which include Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. It then explains the sacraments of healing which are Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick. Finally, it discusses the sacraments of commitment which are Holy Orders and Matrimony. For each sacrament, it provides details on their significance, rituals, effects and those who can administer them according to Catholic doctrine.
Este documento describe los siete sacramentos de la Iglesia Católica. Explica brevemente cada uno de los sacramentos, incluyendo sus orígenes bíblicos y desarrollo doctrinal. También analiza conceptos teológicos clave como la presencia real de Cristo en la Eucaristía y el poder de perdonar los pecados. El documento proporciona una visión general de la comprensión católica de los sacramentos como medios eficaces de gracia instituidos por Cristo para santificar a los
The document discusses the importance of contextualizing theology so that it is relevant to local cultures while remaining true to biblical teachings. It provides definitions of contextualization from scholars like Darrell Whiteman and Paul Hiebert. Models of contextualization are outlined, such as translation, anthropological, praxis, and synthetic. The document also presents guidelines for determining whether a local theology demonstrates sound contextualization or drifts into heterodoxy, such as whether it is coherent with revelation, leads to Christ-like behavior, and challenges cultural norms. Overall, the document argues that all theology is contextual and aims to provide a framework for developing theologies that faithfully engage with local contexts.
1) The document discusses the distinction between spirituality and religion, and the idea of being "spiritual but not religious" (SBNR).
2) It references the work of Bernard Lonergan and Daniel Helminiak, who defined spirituality as emerging on the "philosophic horizon" and religion on the "theistic horizon".
3) The discussion centers around defining spirituality as the "disciplined transformation of our capacities for attending to attention"- focusing attention on self and world care through spiritual practices and experiences.
1) The document discusses the distinction between spirituality and religion, and the idea of being "spiritual but not religious" (SBNR).
2) It references the work of Bernard Lonergan and Daniel Helminiak, who defined spirituality as emerging on the "philosophic horizon" and religion on the "theistic horizon".
3) The discussion centers around defining spirituality as the "disciplined transformation of our capacities for attending to attention"- focusing attention on self and world care through spiritual practices and experiences.
Ormond Rush discusses how Catholic orthodoxy is an ongoing process rather than a fixed point, with truth lying in the future as the Church continues to develop over time through the interplay between scripture, tradition, magisterium, theology, reason, and experience. He argues for a via media approach between extremes of maximalism and minimalism regarding doctrines, authority, and revelation, recognizing different levels of definitiveness. Overall he presents a nuanced, dialogic model of discerning truth through the interaction of multiple witnesses rather than a monologic notion of fixed, propositional truths.
This document discusses the importance of upholding the Bible as the ultimate authority for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It examines why tradition, reason, community, and other sources are insufficient as foundations of authority. While recognizing the roles of the Holy Spirit and Jesus, it argues that only Scripture can reliably guide the church, as Jesus and the Bible itself point to its divine inspiration and self-authenticating claims. Maintaining the authority of Scripture is vital for theology, leadership, prayer, evangelism, education and dealing with future challenges. Theologians, leaders and members must allow the Bible to determine their beliefs and actions as challenges arise.
This document discusses studies on Passionist history and spirituality. It lists 14 topics related to St. Paul of the Cross and the spirituality of the Passionist order. These include guides to Passionist life written by St. Paul of the Cross, the presence of the Passion of Jesus in the Passionist congregation's structure and apostolate, reflections on characteristics of Passionist spirituality like prayer, community, penance, poverty and solitude. The document emphasizes that a commitment to justice, peace and integrity of creation is fundamentally Christian and an important part of the Passionist charism.
Pope Francis: A mission embodied within human limitsMargaretObrovac
Pope Francis discusses how the Church must grow in interpreting scripture and understanding truth with help from other sciences. Within the Church, differing viewpoints can help express the riches of the Gospel if reconciled in respect and love. Expressing timeless truths requires finding ways to convey their meaning in contemporary language, otherwise people may misunderstand the authentic Gospel message. All religious teaching must be reflected in the lives and witness of its teachers.
The trinity review, a the trinity manifestPaulo Arieu
The document discusses the rise of irrationalism in the 20th century and the response of The Trinity Foundation. It makes the following key points:
1. Secular philosophers and theologians have largely abandoned the idea that true knowledge is possible for humans, leading to a culture of radical skepticism.
2. If true knowledge is not possible, then Christianity's core claims of divine revelation cannot be substantiated and the faith becomes nonsensical.
3. The Trinity Foundation was created to teach Christianity as a rational, intellectually defensible system by presenting the clear doctrines of Scripture and opposing irrationalism in theology.
4. The Foundation believes the contemporary church has failed in its duty to teach correct doctrine
Pope Francis: A mission embodied within human limits (cont.)MargaretObrovac
Pope Francis discusses how the Church can re-examine certain customs that are no longer effective means of communicating the Gospel. He notes that while the Church has rules that were quite effective historically, they may no longer be useful for guiding people's lives today. Citing St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Augustine, he argues that Church precepts should be insisted on with moderation so as not to overburden people. The task of evangelization operates within language and circumstances, constantly seeking to communicate Gospel truth in context without compromising truth. A missionary heart is aware of human limitations and strives to do good however it can.
The document discusses different perspectives on Catholic teachings regarding social justice and sexual morality. It argues that while modern Catholic social justice teachings have benefited from incorporating methodologies like historical consciousness, personalism and relational responsibility, Catholic sexual morality teachings have not undergone a similar paradigm shift. It suggests a need for Catholic teachings on gender and sexuality to employ the new methodologies as well, which could help address issues like definitions of procreativity and complementarity in a less physicalistic way. However, this would require a wholesale shift away from old methodologies to the new.
The document discusses three key aspects of Catholic theology: discipline, doctrine, and dogma. It argues that Catholics can legitimately disagree on matters of church discipline and some moral teachings, as these issues are still open to discussion, but they must assent to core dogmatic teachings around essentials like the creeds, sacraments, and scripture. While some differences exist between Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions, the report highlights that their shared beliefs far outweigh the differences, focusing on areas of broad agreement around faith, baptism, Eucharist, and moral values.
This document provides a lengthy discussion on various topics related to Christology and theology. It references the views of several scholars and discusses concepts like fivefold Christology, sophiology, soteriology, and nonduality. It aims to introduce new terminology and clarify meanings to describe spiritual formation. The document emphasizes considering approaches positively rather than through criticism, and discusses differences between mystical experience and epistemic approaches.
Sacred Secrets of Esoteric Christianity - SAMPLE.pdfLouisSefer
The deeper meaning behind the symbolism used in Christianity has been kept hidden from the masses for generations. Many millions have been misled by false teachings and wrong interpretations of the bible. The esoteric secrets of Christianity have remained in obscurity due to the fact that the revelation of this knowledge will lead to true salvation and freedom. Those who possess these sacred secrets have access to spiritual powers that have been labeled as 'forbidden' and 'occult', so to scare and intimidate you from learning the truth about who you really are.
In Sacred Secrets of Esoteric Christianity, we will examine the secret teachings of Jesus to reveal the hidden truth. We will discuss:
Exploring Esoteric Christianity
Esotericism
Gnosticism
The Essenes and Their Influence Upon The Life of Jesus Christ
The Essenes
The Esoteric Life of Jesus
Esoteric Doctrines
The Story of Man’s Fall
Man's Fall
The Doctrines of Reincarnation and Karma
Reincarnation
Karma
The Violet Flame of the Holy Spirit
Light
Man's Divinity
Developing Divinity
and more!
Now is the time that has been appointed for you to learn this occult knowledge. It is time to have your eyes opened to the truth about who you are, why you are here, your purpose, your mission and your divine power. Do not delay and order your copy now!
This document discusses evangelization and the process of bringing people to faith in Christ. It begins by providing statistics on common programs in US Catholic churches and identifies evangelization as the essential mission of the Church. It then explores what evangelization means and its importance. The document outlines five stages of pre-discipleship that non-believers may go through - trust, curiosity, openness, seeking, and intentional discipleship. It provides suggestions for how Christians can foster each of these stages. Finally, it discusses establishing an intentional process for evangelization with clarity, movement between stages, alignment within a parish, and focus.
Leonard Sweet responds to accusations and criticisms of his theology and writings. He acknowledges some past works could be improved but denies endorsing New Age or emergent theology. While quoting outside sources, he aimed to evangelize, not compromise orthodoxy. He critiques how "emerging church" lacks passion for salvation and separates Jesus from his teachings. Reviews of Sweet's book "Nudge" criticize his view that evangelism should "nudge" people to the God within them, not introduce them to Jesus, but Sweet argues traditional evangelism is flawed and his goal is to revolutionize how Christians reach others.
The work of Fr Norris; a mitigated St Ignatius spiritual diary that leads people to a greater understanding of yourself and your relationship with others and most importantly with God.
Similar to Gaudete et Exsultate - The call to holiness (20)
Gaudete et Exsultate - El llamado a la santidadEnrique Soros
El Papa Francisco recorre maravillosamente las características de un santo moderno, manso, pobre de espíritu, misericordioso, de corazón limpio, que trabaja por la paz, etc.,
y nos muestra dos sutiles enemigos a combatir.
En un apéndice, relacionamos estas ideas presentadas por el Papa con el pensamiento orgánico y mecanicista que desarrolla el P. Kentenich, dada la clara conexión entre ambos, y siendo que estamos convencidos de que el futuro de la Iglesia y del mundo depende de que desarrollemos la mentalidad orgánica y que vivamos según ella.
Amoris Laetitia - The joy of Love - Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Francis -, with special dedication of chapter 8: Accompanying, Discerning and Integrating Weakness
Resumen de la Exhortación Apostólica Amoris Laetitia, especial dedicación al capítulo 8: Acompañar, discernir e integrar la fragilidad - separados y vueltos a casar - la inclusión de todos en la Iglesia
CHRISTUS VIVIT - Una carta que sacude... del Papa Francisco a la juventudEnrique Soros
Este es un extracto de la vital, actual y motivadora Exhortación Apostólica Christus Vivit, del Papa Francisco.
Hemos dado preferencia a la temática pastoral. Creemos que es de esencial importancia para avanzar como una Iglesia que acoge, que recibe a los jóvenes en su propia realidad, y que los motiva al liderazgo, al envío, a la misión.
Mira estos videos sobre CHRISTUS VIVIT de 1 minuto:
Card. Kevin Farrell, Prefecto del Dicasterio de Laicos, Familia y Vida español
http://www.laityfamilylife.va/content/laityfamilylife/es/news/2019/_christus-vivit_-attraverso-gli-occhi-dei-giovani.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=NxaJ_UvUtNs&feature=emb_logo
“No se trata de lo que está escrito en el libro de la ley, sino del Espíritu que guía a cada uno de nosotros, y nos lleva al conocimiento de Cristo.”
Holanda:
https://www.facebook.com/vaticannews/videos/vl.773673573050930/553072871906807/?type=1
Irlanda:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=702992956861820
Indonesia geek
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2489477391119239
Frances: ejemplo de Maria divertido
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2537787312979011
Malta
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=417651349116913
Malawi
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=500297764153673
CHRISTUS VIVIT - A letter that shakes us, from Pope Francis to young people Enrique Soros
This is an excerpt of the motivating Apostolic Exhortation CHRISTUS VIVIT, of Pope Francis to young people.
We have given preference to the text regarding the pastoral care of the youth. We believe that it is of essential importance to advance as a Church that welcomes, that receives young people in their own reality, and that motivates them to leadership, to evangelize.
Read this and watch the 1-minute videos!
Christus Vivit Vatican News 1 minu
Card. Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life
http://www.laityfamilylife.va/content/laityfamilylife/en/news/2019/_christus-vivit_-attraverso-gli-occhi-dei-giovani.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQTx_Anpq7M&feature=emb_logo
“It's not about what is written in the book of the law, but what is the Spirit that guides each one of us and leads each one of us to the knowledge of Christ.”
Holland:
https://www.facebook.com/vaticannews/videos/vl.773673573050930/553072871906807/?type=1
Ireland:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=702992956861820
Indonesia geek
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2489477391119239
France: ejemplo de Maria divertido
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2537787312979011
Malta
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=417651349116913
Malawi
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=500297764153673
Ecclesial Movements and New Communities in the Archdiocese of WashingtonEnrique Soros
This document provides information about the Association of Ecclesial Movements and New Communities in the Archdiocese of Washington. The association brings together various Catholic movements and communities in the Washington D.C. area to foster unity and collaboration. It maintains a website with resources for the movements in the archdiocese.
The document discusses strategies for keeping teenagers involved in the church after they complete catechism classes and confirmation. It suggests holding regular meetings between 8th graders and the youth group, integrating parents into parish life, and providing an active transition for 8th graders into the youth group after confirmation. The overall goal is for youth to feel loved and at home in the parish community so they want to stay involved long-term.
Catequesis que llega al Alma. Cómo cautivar a los niños y jóvenes en las parroquias. Característica esencial del catequista y del evangelizador. Jóvenes primero. Cómo formar un grupo de jóvenes. Cómo formar un grupo de padres y madres. Clave principal para ser buen catequista.
¿El Big Bang o la Biblia? ¿Dios o la evolución? ¿Creación o monos? Estas preguntas separan lo que Dios creó intrínsicamente unido. Negar la ciencia y no integrarla a la religión, y viceversa, es un despropósito que solo crea confusión y ateos. Los descubrimientos científicos como el Big Bang y la evolución son aceptados por la Iglesia católica, porque el católico no entiende la Biblia absolutizando todo versículo. El católico discierne. En este power point se expresa la integración que los papas hacen entre ciencia y religión. El fanatismo de interpretar todo versículo de la Biblia como absoluto daña la concepción de la verdad, y por lo tanto la concepción de Dios.
El Papa Francisco y su Exhortación Apostólica Evangelii Gaudium - La Alegría ...Enrique Soros
Los principios de la Iglesia, su doctrina, no cambian, pero dado que el mundo evoluciona constantemente, la Iglesia debe encontrar siempre caminos pastorales para acercarse al mundo, con el fin de llevarle el Evangelio.
¿Estamos abiertos a los signos de los tiempos?
¿Estamos abiertos a la inspiración del Espíritu Santo?
La Exhortación Apostólica Evangelii Gaudium, La Alegría del Evangelio, nos presenta un gran desafío: el abrazar a todo hombre y mujer, para acercarles la redención de Jesós.
El autor de este power point, Enrique Soros, ofrece presentaciones de este trabajo en instituciones.
El archivo power point puede ser descargado gratuitamente.
No se autorizan cambios del mismo sin consentimiento del autor.
Este power point puede ser enviado gratuitamente por correo electrónico en su versión primaria, la cual mantiene las animaciones y características del show original, que no se conservan aquí. Solicitarlo a e@schoenstatt.biz.
Sobre el autor
Enrique Soros es argentino y vive desde hace 17 años en Washington, D.C. Es miembro de CLAdeES, Centro Latinoamericano de Evangelización Social, institución que ofrece diversos cursos vía internet, incluyendo uno sobre la Carta Apostólica Evangelii Gaudium, La Alegría del Evangelio, el cual es patrocinado por el CELAM. Enrique es responsable de dicho curso en Estados Unidos.
El autor es Enlace de Prensa entre el CELAM y la Conferencia Episcopal de EEUU., coordina el proyecto digital pastoral del CELAM Mirgrantes Hoy www.migranteshoy.celam.org y trabaja con el CELAM en diversos proyectos.
Es periodista, contribuye con diversos medios internacionales y agencias informativas, como Zenit, AICA, Catholic.net y Aleteia, y es autor del libro A la Conquista de Todos los Corazones.
Es miembro de la RIIAL, Red Informática para la Iglesia en Latinoamérica, proyecto conjunto del Pontificio Consejo para las Comunicaciones Sociales y el CELAM, y del Club Gente de Prensa. Es vicepresidente de la Asociación de Movimientos Eclesiales y Nuevas Comunidades en la Arquidiócesis de Washington.
Enrique Soros pertenece al Movimiento de Schoenstatt, coordina la Asociación Internacional de Comunicadores de Schoenstatt, es miembro de la Asociación de Líderes Catequéticos de la Arquidiócesis de Washington y trabaja en diversos proyectos pastorales en Estados Unidos y Latinoamérica
Su dirección de email es: e@schoenstatt.biz
Pope Francis and The Joy of the Gospel: Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii GaudiumEnrique Soros
Pope Francis calls for an ecclesial renewal focused on mission over self-preservation. He emphasizes spreading the Gospel to all people, including the poor and marginalized, with a positive message of God's mercy and love. The Pope advocates for a Church that embraces everyone and goes out to the peripheries to spread the joy of the Gospel through both words and deeds. He also stresses the importance of youth ministry and empowering young people to be leaders in the Church.
The Book of Samuel is a book in the Hebrew Bible, found as two books in the Old Testament. The book is part of the Deuteronomistic history, a series of books that constitute a theological history of the Israelites and that aim to explain God's law for Israel under the guidance of the prophets.
Lição 12: João 15 a 17 – O Espírito Santo e a Oração Sacerdotal | 2° Trimestr...OmarBarrezueta1
Esta lição é uma oportunidade para discutirmos um assunto multo mal interpretado no contexto cristão, que é o fato de algumas pessoas pensarem que o conhecer Jesus é ter a nossa vida mudada em todas as áreas, como se Deus tivesse o dever de transportar-nos deste mundo para um outro mundo onde muitas coisas maravilhosas que desejamos seriam reais. No entanto, a nossa fé não nos tira do mundo após nos convertermos; ao invés disso, permanecemos vivendo sob as mesmas circunstâncias. O propósito de Deus não é nos tirar do mundo, mas nos livrar das ações do maligno (Jo 17.15), Sendo assim, a vida eterna não significa estar fora da realidade deste mundo, mas conhecer o único Deus verdadeiro (Jo 17.3).
Trusting God's Providence | Verse: Romans 8: 28-31JL de Belen
Trusting God's Providence.
Providence - God’s active preservation and care over His creation. God is both the Creator and the Sustainer of all things Heb. 1:2-3; Col. 1:17
-God keep His promises.
-God’s general providence is toward all creation
- All things were made through Him
God’s special providence is toward His children.
We may suffer now, but joy can and will come
God can see what we cannot see
2nd issue of Volume 15. A magazine in urdu language mainly based on spiritual treatment and learning. Many topics on ISLAM, SUFISM, SOCIAL PROBLEMS, SELF HELP, PSYCHOLOGY, HEALTH, SPIRITUAL TREATMENT, Ruqya etc.A very useful magazine for everyone.
Unleash your spiritual growth journey as a truth-seeker!
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Tracking "The Blessing" - Christianity · Spiritual Growth · Success
Do you ever feel like your Bible highlighting isn't quite enough to ignite lasting spiritual growth? Have you struggled to retain key takeaways from your Bible study sessions?
Discover how living in 4D can transform your highlighting into a strategic tool for spiritual development.
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
In this video, you'll gain insights on:
How highlighting key verses and themes can enhance memory and retention of Scripture (we see a few key ones, here!)
Studies have shown that highlighting can significantly improve information recall. Highlighting key points visually reinforces them in your mind, leading to better long-term memory.
How to personalize your Bible study through strategic highlighting. Don't just highlight everything!
This video will teach you how to strategically highlight based on what resonates with you, focusing on central themes, recurring ideas, or connections between different passages.
Watch More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
How connecting highlighted passages can reveal deeper biblical truths. By highlighting these connections, you can see the bigger picture and uncover the underlying messages within Scripture.
By the end of this video, you'll be equipped to unlock the hidden potential within your highlighted Bible and embark on a transformative spiritual growth journey! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more inspiring content on deepening your faith.
Note: For Christians seeking to enrich their Bible study and deepen their faith, as well as any other spiritual seeker of truth and growth.
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
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Tales of This and Another Life - Chapters.pdfMashaL38
This book is one of the best of the translated ones, for it has a warning character for all those who find themselves in the experience of material life. Irmão X provides a shrewd way of describing the subtleties and weaknesses that can jeopardize our intentions, making us more attentive and vigilant by providing us with his wise pages, reminding us between the lines of the Master's words: "Pray and watch."
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...Cometan
This lecture created by Brandon Taylorian (aka Cometan) specially for the CESNUR Conference held Bordeaux in June 2024 provides a brief introduction to the legacy of religious and philosophical thought that Astronism emerges from, namely the discourse on transcension started assuredly by the Cosmists in Russia in the mid-to-late nineteenth century and then carried on and developed by Mordecai Nessyahu in Cosmodeism in the twentieth century. Cometan also then provides some detail on his story in founding Astronism in the early twenty-first century from 2013 along with details on the central Astronist doctrine of transcension. Finally, the lecture concludes with some contributions made by space religions and space philosophy and their influences on various cultural facets in art, literature and film.
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian
SBS – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
Lucid Dreaming: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
The ability to control one's dreams or for the dreamer to be aware that he or she is dreaming. This process, called lucid dreaming, has some potential risks as well as many fascinating benefits. However, many people are hesitant to try it initially for fear of the potential dangers. This article aims to clarify these concerns by exploring both the risks and benefits of lucid dreaming.
The Benefits of Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming allows a person to take control of their dream world, helping them overcome their fears and eliminate nightmares. This technique is particularly useful for mental health. By taking control of their dreams, individuals can face challenging scenarios in a controlled environment, which can help reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence.
Addressing Common Concerns
Physical Harm in Dreams Lucid dreaming is fundamentally safe. In a lucid dream, everything is a creation of your mind. Therefore, nothing in the dream can physically harm you. Despite the vividness and realness of the dream experience, it remains entirely within your mental landscape, posing no physical danger.
Mental Health Risks Concerns about developing PTSD or other mental illnesses from lucid dreaming are unfounded. As soon as you wake up, it's clear that the events experienced in the dream were not real. On the contrary, lucid dreaming is often seen as a therapeutic tool for conditions like PTSD, as it allows individuals to reframe and manage their thoughts.
Potential Risks of Lucid Dreaming
While generally safe, lucid dreaming does come with a few risks as well:
Mixing Dream Memories with Reality Long-term lucid dreamers might occasionally confuse dream memories with real ones, creating false memories. This issue is rare and preventable by maintaining a dream journal and avoiding lucid dreaming about real-life people or places too frequently.
Escapism Using lucid dreaming to escape reality can be problematic if it interferes with your daily life. While it is sometimes beneficial to escape and relieve the stress of reality, relying on lucid dreaming for happiness can hinder personal growth and productivity.
Feeling Tired After Lucid Dreaming Some people report feeling tired after lucid dreaming. This tiredness is not due to the dreams themselves but often results from not getting enough sleep or using techniques that disrupt sleep patterns. Taking breaks and ensuring adequate sleep can prevent this.
Mental Exhaustion Lucid dreaming can be mentally taxing if practiced excessively without breaks. It’s important to balance lucid dreaming with regular sleep to avoid mental fatigue.
Lucid dreaming is safe and beneficial if done with caution. It has many benefits, such as overcoming fear and improving mental health, and minimal risks. There are many resources and tutorials available for those interested in trying it.
3. What follows is not meant to be a treatise on
holiness, containing definitions and
distinctions helpful for understanding this
important subject, or a discussion of the
various means of sanctification.
My modest goal is to repropose the call to
holiness in a practical way for our own time,
with all its risks, challenges and opportunities.
THE SAINTS WHO ENCOURAGE
AND ACCOMPANY US
GeE #2
4. I like to contemplate the holiness present in the patience of
God’s people: in those parents who raise their children with
immense love, in those men and women who work hard to
support their families, in the sick, in elderly religious who
never lose their smile.
In their daily perseverance I see the holiness of the Church
militant.
Very often it is a holiness found in our next-door neighbors,
those who, living in our midst, reflect God’s presence.
THE SAINTS “NEXT DOOR”
GeE #7
5. Yet with this Exhortation I would
like to insist primarily on the call to
holiness that the Lord addresses
to each of us, the call that he also
addresses, personally, to you: “Be
holy, for I am holy,”
The Lord calls
GeE #10
6. Not everything a saint says is completely
faithful to the Gospel; not everything he
or she does is authentic or perfect.
What we need to contemplate is the
totality of their life, their entire journey of
growth in holiness, the reflection of Jesus
Christ that emerges when we grasp their
overall meaning as a person.
Your mission in Christ
GeE #22
7. We often speak, for example, of the spirituality
of the catechist, the spirituality of the diocesan
priesthood, the spirituality of work. For the same
reason,
in Evangelii Gaudium I concluded by speaking
of a spirituality of mission,
in Laudato Si’ of an ecological spirituality, and in
Amoris Laetitia of a spirituality of family life.
Activity that sanctifies
GeE #28
9. Here I would like to mention two false forms of
holiness that can lead us astray:
gnosticism and pelagianism.
They are two heresies from early Christian times,
yet they continue to plague us.
In our times too, many Christians, perhaps
without realizing it, can be seduced by these
deceptive ideas, which reflect an anthropocentric
immanentism disguised as Catholic truth.
Gnosticism and pelagianism
GeE #35
10. Let us take a look at these two forms of
doctrinal or disciplinary security that give rise
“to a narcissistic and authoritarian elitism,
whereby instead of evangelizing, one
analyses and classifies others,
and instead of opening the door to grace,
one exhausts his or her energies in
inspecting and verifying.
In neither case is one really concerned about
Jesus Christ or others."
GeE #35
11. Gnosticism presumes “a purely
subjective faith whose only interest
is a certain experience or a set of
ideas and bits of information which
are meant to console and
enlighten, but which ultimately
keep one imprisoned in his or her
own thoughts and feelings."
1- Contemporary gnosticism
GeE #36
12. Thanks be to God, throughout the history of the Church it has always been clear that a
person’s perfection is measured not by the information or knowledge they possess, but
by the depth of their charity.
“Gnostics” do not understand this, because they judge others based on their ability to
understand the complexity of certain doctrines. They think of the intellect as separate
from the flesh, and thus become incapable of touching Christ’s suffering flesh in others,
locked up as they are in an encyclopaedia of abstractions.
An intellect
without God and
without flesh
GeE #37
13. Gnosticism is one of the most sinister ideologies
because, while unduly exalting knowledge or a
specific experience, it considers its own vision of
reality to be perfect.
Thus, perhaps without even realizing it, this
ideology feeds on itself and becomes even more
myopic. It can become all the more illusory when it
masks itself as a disembodied spirituality.
For gnosticism “by its very nature seeks to
domesticate the mystery”, whether the mystery of
God and his grace, or the mystery of others’ lives.
A doctrine without mystery
GeE #40
14. When somebody has an answer for every
question, it is a sign that they are not on
the right road.
They may well be false prophets, who use
religion for their own purposes, to
promote their own psychological or
intellectual theories.
God infinitely transcends us; he is full of
surprises. We are not the ones to
determine when and how we will
encounter him; the exact times and places
of that encounter are not up to us.
Someone who wants everything to be
clear and sure presumes to control God’s
transcendence.
GeE #41
15. It is not easy to grasp the truth that we have received
from the Lord. And it is even more difficult to express it.
So we cannot claim that our way of understanding this
truth authorizes us to exercise a strict supervision over
others’ lives.
Here I would note that in the Church there
legitimately coexist different ways of interpreting
many aspects of doctrine and Christian life; in their
variety, they “help to express more clearly the
immense riches of God’s word”.
It is true that “for those who long for a monolithic body
of doctrine guarded by all and leaving no room for
nuance, this might appear as undesirable and leading
to confusion."
The limits
of reason
GeE #43
16. In effect, doctrine, or better, our
understanding and expression of it, is not a
closed system, devoid of the dynamic
capacity to pose questions, doubts,
inquiries...
The questions of our people, their
suffering, their struggles, their dreams, their
trials and their worries, all possess an
interpretational value that we cannot ignore
if we want to take the principle of the
incarnation seriously.
Their wondering helps us to wonder, their
questions question us.
GeE #44
17. The same power that the gnostics attributed to the
intellect, others now began to attribute to the
human will, to personal effort.
This was the case with the pelagians and semi-
pelagians.
Now it was not intelligence that took the place of
mystery and grace, but our human will.
It was forgotten that everything “depends not on
human will or exertion, but on God who shows
mercy” (Rom 9:16) and that “he first loved us” (cf. 1
Jn 4:19).
2- Contemporary pelagianism
GeE #48
18. Those who yield to this pelagian or semi-pelagian mindset,
even though they speak warmly of God’s grace, ultimately
trust only in their own powers and feel superior to others
because they observe certain rules or remain intransigently
faithful to a particular Catholic style.
When some of them tell the weak that all things can be
accomplished with God’s grace, deep down they tend to
give the idea that all things are possible by the human will,
as if it were something pure, perfect, all-powerful, to which
grace is then added.
They fail to realize that “not everyone can do everything”,
and that in this life human weaknesses are not healed
completely and once for all by grace.
A will lacking humility
GeE #49
19. “In the evening of this life, I shall appear
before you empty-handed, for I do not ask
you, Lord, to count my works.”
An often overlooked Church teaching
GeE #54
Thérèse of Lisieux
20. Still, some Christians insist on taking another path, that of
justification by their own efforts, the worship of the human
will and their own abilities.
The result is a self-centered and elitist complacency, bereft
of true love. This finds expression in a variety of apparently
unconnected ways of thinking and acting: an obsession
with the law, an absorption with social and political
advantages, a punctilious concern for the Church’s liturgy,
doctrine and prestige, a vanity about the ability to manage
practical matters, and an excessive concern with programs
of self-help and personal fulfillment.
New pelagians
GeE #57
21. Some Christians spend their time and
energy on these things, rather than letting
themselves be led by the Spirit in the way of
love, rather than being passionate about
communicating the beauty and the joy of
the Gospel and seeking out the lost among
the immense crowds that thirst for Christ.
GeE #57
22. Once we believe that everything depends on
human effort as channelled by ecclesial rules
and structures, we unconsciously complicate
the Gospel and become enslaved to a blueprint
that leaves few openings for the working of
grace.
Saint Thomas Aquinas reminded us that the
precepts added to the Gospel by the Church
should be imposed with moderation “lest the
conduct of the faithful become burdensome,”
for then our religion would become a form of
servitude.
GeE #59
23. To avoid this, we do well to keep reminding ourselves
that there is a hierarchy of virtues that bids us seek what
is essential.
The primacy belongs to the theological virtues, which
have God as their object and motive.
At the center is charity. Saint Paul says that what truly
counts is “faith working through love” (Gal 5:6). We are
called to make every effort to preserve charity: “The one
who loves another has fulfilled the law... for love is the
fulfilment of the law” (Rom 13:8.10).
“For the whole law is summed up in a single
commandment, ‘You shall love your neighbour as
yourself’” (Gal 5:14).
The summation of the Law
GeE #60
25. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for
theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
“Blessed are the meek, for
they will inherit the earth.”
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
We turn now to the
individual Beatitudes
cf. Mt 5:3-12).
26. “Blessed are the merciful, for they
will receive mercy."
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for
they will see God."
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for
they will be called children of God."
“Blessed are those who are
persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
27. In fidelity to the Master
Holiness, then, is not about swooning in mystic rapture.
As Saint John Paul II said: “If we truly start out anew from the
contemplation of Christ, we must learn to see him especially in the
faces of those with whom he himself wished to be identified”. [79]
The text of Matthew 25:35-36 is “not a simple invitation to charity: it
is a page of Christology which sheds a ray of light on the mystery of
Christ”. [80]
In this call to recognize him in the poor and the suffering, we see
revealed the very heart of Christ, his deepest feelings and choices,
which every saint seeks to imitate.
Caring for Our Community
GeE #96
28. Given these uncompromising demands of
Jesus, it is my duty to ask Christians to
acknowledge and accept them in a spirit of
genuine openness, sine glossa.
In other words, without any “ifs or buts”
that could lessen their force.
Our Lord made it very clear that holiness
cannot be understood or lived apart from
these demands, for mercy is the beating
heart of the Gospel.
GeE #97
36. How can we know if something comes from the
Holy Spirit or if it stems from the spirit of the world
or the spirit of the devil?
The only way is through discernment, which calls
for something more than intelligence or common
sense.
It is a gift which we must implore. If we ask with
confidence that the Holy Spirit grant us this gift,
and then seek to develop it through prayer,
reflection, reading and good counsel, then surely
we will grow in this spiritual endowment.
Discernment
GeE #166
37. Naturally, this attitude of listening entails obedience
to the Gospel as the ultimate standard, but also to
the Magisterium that guards it, as we seek to find in
the treasury of the Church whatever is most fruitful
for the “today” of salvation.
It is not a matter of applying rules or repeating what
was done in the past, since the same solutions are
not valid in all circumstances and what was useful
in one context may not prove so in another.
The discernment of spirits liberates us from rigidity,
which has no place before the perennial “today” of
the risen Lord.
Speak Lord
GeE #173
38. In Gaudete et Exsultate, Pope Francis shows us a way of thinking,
loving and living coherent with Christian values, which make the
essence of holiness.
He defines also two enemies of holiness:
Gnosticism and Pelagianism.
The first emphasizes one-sidedly thought, intellectual wisdom and
rational perfection; the second the human will, rules, fulfillment of
the law.
Fr. Joseph Kentenich detected this dichotomy between a natural
world of relationship with God and creation; and another that
divides and corrodes that relationship like a bacillus that destroys
harmony with God and all creation.
Appendix
39. He defined this reality as organic and
mechanistic thinking, loving and living,
and he gave such value to this reality that
he expressed that the future of the Church
and the world depended on this struggle
between the organic and the mechanistic
world.
Coinciding fully with the diagnosis of Pope
Francis and observing its profound
relationship with the thought of Fr.
Kentenich, we add an appendix with the
concepts of the latter in this matter.
40. Father Kentenich noticed that human attachments were essential not only
to survive, but even for the growth of the children of God in the spiritual life
and in sanctity.
He posed to the Church the necessity of rooting the love of God in the soul
through all that is human and all that is created, as a means to reach the
love of God. That is to say, it was not enough for the Church build schools,
orphanages, shrines, and seminaries, and for Catholics to go to Mass every
Sunday or even every day.
It is necessary that faith penetrates life. This is only possible by deepening
the organism of natural and supernatural attachments; otherwise, the
Church would not be able to withstand the onslaught of modern times.
Organic and mechanistic thinking
Fr. Joseph Kentenich
Founder of the Schoenstatt Movement
41. The organic person, in constrast to the mechanistic one,
understands the organic relationship between the natural
and the supernatural world or aspects of life.
That is why he can see and love God in and through living
things.
Living things are the means, expression, and safeguard of
the love of God. They do not constitute, therefore, an
obstacle or impediment to love him, but on the contrary, it
is a necessary help to know him and to love him. Certainly,
provided that they are seen and loved in organic
relationship.
Living things are an image, or the impression, expression,
prophet or a greeting from God. God is not seen nor loved
only in himself, like a totally different being in his
transcendence, but also in relation with the living things.
ORGANIC
MENTALITY
According to P. Kentenich
42. Mechanistic mentality separates in a mechanical way
the elements of the whole, which in reality are united.
The person is neither capable of seeing the part in the
whole nor the whole in its parts.
If he analyzes the reality, he distinguishes parts or
aspects of this, but does not relate it with others. This
person separates and counteracts these parts or
aspects within.
The mechanistic way of thinking considers to be
separated or opposed those elements which by God
will constitute an organic whole, which are called to be
complementary, supporting, and making each other
fruitful.
It mechanically separates where there is unity;
it divides and opposes where only differences or
polarities are destined to mutual complementation.
MECHANISTIC
MENTALITY
According to P. Kentenich
43. "It should not be forgotten, that according to our
understanding, we are talking about the
Archimedean point from which the present world,
with it multi-faceted and disoriented existential
crisis, can and should be lifted from its hinges.
It should also be remembered, that we have
placed the organic ideal, in its universality and its
mission for the present time, in line with the
secular concepts of a Saint Augustine and a Saint
Thomas Aquinas for ancient Christianity and for
the Medieval age.
We consider the organic idea as the saving
formula, to which all the useful efforts of reform
can be reduced. The near future will indicate
whether or not we are mistaken..."
Fr. Joseph Kentenich, Chronicle of 1955
Saving formula, to which all efforts of reform can be reduced
44. You may download the Apostolic
Exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate,
Rejoice and be glad, on the call to
holiness in today’s world, here:
Puedes bajar la Exhortación Apostólica
Gaudete et Exsultate,
Alegraos y regocijaos, sobre el llamado
a la santidad en el mundo actual, aquí:
Enrique Soros
e@Schoenstatt.biz
www.bit.ly/gaudete-en www.bit.ly/gaudete-es