Encyclical
Author: teejtc / Category: ReligiousMany protestants approach Catholicism with the basic assumption that it is not only a different approach to faith, but indeed may be a wholly different religion. Of course, I disagree. The latest reason is the Pope’s newest (and first) encyclical, Deus Caritas Est.
I’ll be the first to admit that sections 41-42 overemphasize Mary, that limiting the leitourgia to the sacraments may be a little overly, sacramentally optimistic, and that its intensely lacking in inclusivity, but this is a document you should read.
Here are a few gems:
“The Church is God’s family in the world. In this family no one ought to go without the necessities of life. Yet at the same time caritas- agape extends beyond the frontiers of the Church. ” (from section 25b)
“Today the means of mass communication have made our planet smaller, rapidly narrowing the distance between different peoples and cultures. This “togetherness†at times gives rise to misunderstandings and tensions, yet our ability to know almost instantly about the needs of others challenges us to share their situation and their difficulties. Despite the great advances made in science and technology, each day we see how much suffering there is in the world on account of different kinds of poverty, both material and spiritual. Our times call for a new readiness to assist our neighbours in need. ” (from section 30a)
“The increase in diversified organizations engaged in meeting various human needs is ultimately due to the fact that the command of love of neighbour is inscribed by the Creator in man’s very nature. It is also a result of the presence of Christianity in the world, since Christianity constantly revives and acts out this imperative, so often profoundly obscured in the course of time. ” (from secton 31)
Well… those are only small portions. Read it; it’s worth your time. You can find it at:
Grace and Peace,
`tim
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