I know that many (myself included) have taken to calling Pope John Paul II “the Great”. I’m sure that it will stick, and he will be known by this title. But, as I was reflecting today on Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to the United States as well as his vast contribution to the Church, I considered what he might be titled for future generations. And it hit me . . . Pope Benedict the Theologian. There have only been a couple (that I can remember) saints throughout history with this title. I can only think of St. John (the Evangelist) and St. Gregory Nazianzus. And no, I’m not beatifying Benedict already (as if I could), but if he were to be titled anything, this would be it. Everything this wonderful pastor does, even his simplest addresses to the simplest of gatherings, is full of true theology – a theology one can tell is drenched in prayer and contemplation of God. I love this Pope.
Tags: Pope Benedict, Pope John Paul
April 22, 2008 at 8:58 pm |
If he gets around to completing his trilogy of encyclicals on Faith, Hope and Love, I can’t think of a better title for him than Benedict the Theologian.
April 22, 2008 at 9:56 pm |
I like “Benedict the Lawgiver”
or “Benedict the Enforcer”
I think he will be known for bringing the church back inline with Vatican 2’s vision. JP2 couldn’t do much as he was so close to the initial event, Benedict being slightly removed I think will be able to swoop in and blast some of this crazy theocrapology out of the pews.
It is already happening and after what I saw on EWTN in DC, a very hushed letter will be sent to the USCCB requesting they read the appropriate canons, documents, GIRM, and not hesitate to send in questions regarding liturgy. Lex orandi, lex credendi. Also, he might mention getting inline with the canons in regard to confirmation (891); but that is another crusade of mine altogether.
Read Canon 891 Rusty… read it carefully. Then read this… http://www.nccbuscc.org/comm/archives/2001/01-150.shtml
There is a worse document that shows the entire USCCB stepping outside of canon law, knowingly residing out of it. The above article corrects the problem, sort of. Many diocese still confirm post-16, Biloxi included.
I did alot of research for a debate on the age of confirmation, if you want I can dig out my notes and unload on you
April 23, 2008 at 9:00 am |
Chris,
Well, I agree wholeheartedly with you. Other issues, like the Instituted Acolyte, also seemingly are ignored by the American Bishops. They all grate on me. Could a parent who wanted it have their child confirmed b/f the age set by the diocese?
April 23, 2008 at 9:59 am |
I tend to think of His Holiness as Pope Benedict the Rabbi. Yes, he’s a brilliant theologian, but his real gift is being able to transmit that wisdom and theology to us poor dumb pew peasants in a form we can comprehend (yet still challenging).
Perhaps Pope Benedict the Wise?
April 23, 2008 at 10:41 am |
I like Benedict, the Theologian, myself. I had been wondering if there was some way to recognize the duo of JPII and B16 like “The Restoration Popes,” as this epoch will undoubtedly be known as the restoration.
April 24, 2008 at 11:02 am |
What? You don’t like the sound of Benedict the Rottweiler?
Just kidding, of course…
Diane
P.S. Rusty–will you re-send me that TheologyWeb discussion URL? it’s buried waaaayyyy down in my inbox. Thanks!!
April 25, 2008 at 1:49 pm |
Rusty, it is my understanding that a child could be confirmed prior to the age set by the diocese if due cause for that confirmation is valid. In other words, if you can prove that your child is ready, then they cannot stop it unless there is some great reason (having them confirmed with their classmates is not a reason).
That being said, anyone over the age of 7 who converts to Catholicism SHOULD be confirmed upon their entrance. From my reading (not a Canon Lawyer by any means) there is NO CAUSE for delaying the confirmation of a new member if they are 7 or older.
I, of course, could be wrong in my understanding.
July 10, 2008 at 11:30 am |
There is a famous Byzantine called “Simeon the New Theologian,” too.
October 23, 2008 at 2:13 pm |
Hi Rusty, I just read your conversion story to Catholicism. You brought tears to my eyes! I was born and raised UPC. I not only remember no TV but also no Christmas tree and no Halloween. Life is pretty lonely growing up without customs and traditions that those around you celebrate.
At the age of 28 I converted to Catholicism. I have never looked back. The beauty in the sacraments is awesome. I have never seen the Love of Jesus like I do in the Mass. I have never felt closer to God than I do when I pray the rosary.
Its such a shame that Catholicism is so misunderstood. Here we live the live Jesus lived. We live the Way. Its not all about preaching and teaching its about giving people a real example. I`ll never forget my first Holy Week. I *saw* the scriptures come to life…right in front of me.
Imagine the shock.
Thanks, for bringing your story to the web
)
Also, if you are interested check this out, its a yahoo group for ex pentecostals
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FormerUPCSupport/