Surprising contributions by Francis to the Magisterium...
On a certain occasion, Saint Thomas Aquinas revealed one of the secrets that permit us to better understand the integrity and brilliance of his intellectual work. He basically explained that he never advanced in the development of a thought or in the search for an answer without being absolutely sure that the steps he had previously taken were founded upon unquestionable truths.Continue Reading
The veneration of the faithful toward the Holy Father has been a constant trace of Catholicism. This is understandable, considering his dignity as Vicar of Christ on earth and successor of Peter, who ‘presides over the Church in charity,’ with the power to bind and loose received from the very Redeemer of humanity.Continue Reading
“About Jesus Christ and the Church, I simply know they’re just one thing, and we shouldn’t complicate the matter,” replied Saint Joan of Arc during her trial (cf. CCC 795), evidencing impressive theological precision – despite her lack of education – that was due to her great union with the Divine Savior.Continue Reading
One of the fundamental documents of Vatican Council II teaches that ‘the Church has always had the duty of scrutinizing the signs of the times and interpreting them in the light of the Gospel.’ Francis, in turn, insinuates that the Gospel should be re-read in light of modern culture.Continue Reading
Jesus tells us in the Gospel that, ‘A sound tree cannot bear evil fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit’ (Mt 7: 18). Evidently, any botanist who claims a tree to be defective, even though it visibly produces appetizing and nutritious fruit, would be considered mad. He would be taken as a liar or a charlatan for making such an unfounded affirmation.Continue Reading
According to the Oxford Dictionary ‘proselytize’ means ‘convert or attempt to convert someone from one religion […] to another,’ while ‘proselyte’ means ‘a person who has converted from one opinion, religion […] to another.’ Ever since the time of Jesus, the Church – as guardian of the truth – has given special importance to attracting all people to its midst, thus leading them toward salvation. In other words, it employs a proselytism for the good, in the full sense of the word. However… perhaps other methods are more pleasing to God. Read further…
Imagine a sick beggar pleading for help at the door of a hospital run by religious. He is immediately welcomed with words of understanding: ‘Welcome, my friend, our doors are open to all.’ Continue Reading
“We looked for peace, but no good came, for a time of healing, but behold, terror.” (Jer 8:15) Who does not long for peace? But… how to achieve it in a world agitated by numerous and complex problems?Continue Reading
From our most basic notions of Catechism we know that “Baptism of blood” incorporates into the Holy Church those who have died for their faith in Christ, even though they have not yet received sacramental Baptism. Francis, in turn, speaks of an “ecumenism of blood”, which would unite all of those who suffer persecution; Catholics, Orthodox, Copts and Lutherans, at times even including Muslims and ministers of other religions on the list. Consequently, many questions arise… Read more…
