As I recounted in the last issue, the new development in the understanding of consecration found expression in the people’s devotional use of the blessed sacrament. In the West, a devotional practice developed about adoring and praying to the communion … Continue reading
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Technically the Churches of Rome and Constantinople were out of communion from 1009. But it would be unwise to press this technicality too far. Diptychs were frequently incomplete, and so do not form an infallible guide to Church relations. The … Continue reading
A vibrant parish is one that truly lives the Great Fast because it sees the Fast as an opportunity to grow in the faith. Members of a vibrant Parish voluntarily embrace ascetical practices. The Great Fast begins in just eight … Continue reading
In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, a question arose in the community. There had been deaths. Paul hadn’t been gone very long. It is speculated that those who died were probably martyrs rather than people dying of natural causes. … Continue reading
Another term used for deification or divinization is Christification. This is based on the idea that there is a Christological structure to the human being and the destiny of humanity is to be found in Christ. Theosis is the mystery … Continue reading
Nothing equals prayer, wrote John Chrysostom. It makes possible what is impossible, easy what is difficult. It is not possible for the person who prays to fall into sin. Theophane the Recluse explained why the fathers wrote so many treatises … Continue reading
Where we left off in the history of the Great Schism was the death of Ignatius (877) and Photius again becoming the Patriarch of Constantinople. Photius was recognized by Rome and ecclesiastically master of Bulgaria. Until recently it was thought … Continue reading
The Christians of the first centuries were aware that Christ had outstanding imitators and that it was especially because of them that the Church had become a light to the nations. It should come as no real surprise, then, that … Continue reading
One of Jesus’ most profound parables is that of the Prodigal Son. It truly sets forth a different image of God, who is represented by the father in the parable. The imaged father is one who is ever-ready to forgive … Continue reading
I have been sharing with you the hints that a priest at Gonzaga University has come up with in order to pray with the Scriptures. I would quickly review these to help you remember: (1) Passage, (2) Place, (3) Posture … Continue reading