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Benevacantism: Understanding the Philosophy of Emptying the Self
Are you intrigued by the idea of self-emptying, of intentionally clearing the mind and heart to make space for something greater? Then you're in the right place. This comprehensive guide delves into the fascinating concept of benevacantism, a philosophy that encourages the emptying of the self to achieve spiritual growth and a deeper connection with the divine or the universe. We'll explore its history, core tenets, practical applications, and potential criticisms, providing you with a holistic understanding of this compelling spiritual practice. Prepare to embark on a journey of self-discovery as we unravel the mysteries of benevacantism.
What is Benevacantism?
Benevacantism, derived from the Latin roots "bene" (well) and "vacare" (to be empty), translates to "the state of being well-emptied." It's not a formally organized religion or sect but rather a philosophical approach to spiritual development emphasizing the intentional emptying of the ego, attachments, and preconceived notions to allow for a more profound experience of reality. This "emptiness" isn't about nihilism or a lack of purpose; rather, it's a fertile ground for spiritual growth, allowing for greater receptivity to wisdom, compassion, and a deeper connection with something beyond the self. Think of it as clearing the mental and emotional clutter to make space for something new and transformative to emerge.
Historical Roots and Influences
While not explicitly named "benevacantism" in historical texts, the core principles resonate throughout various spiritual traditions. Elements of benevacantism can be traced back to ancient practices like Buddhist mindfulness meditation, which aims to quiet the mind and observe thoughts without judgment. Similarly, the concept of "kenosis" in Christian theology, referring to the self-emptying of Christ, shares significant parallels. Sufi traditions also emphasize the emptying of the ego to experience divine unity. Benevacantism, therefore, can be viewed as a synthesis of these historical strands, offering a framework for integrating these practices into a coherent philosophy.
Core Tenets of Benevacantism
Several key tenets form the foundation of benevacantism:
Self-Awareness: The journey begins with heightened self-awareness. This involves honestly examining one's thoughts, emotions, and motivations, identifying attachments and ingrained patterns that hinder spiritual growth. Journaling, meditation, and introspection are valuable tools for this process.
Detachment from Ego: The ego, the sense of self-centeredness, is seen as a primary obstacle to spiritual growth. Benevacantism emphasizes the cultivation of detachment from the ego's desires, fears, and judgments. This doesn't mean suppressing emotions but rather observing them without identification.
Acceptance and Non-Judgment: Embracing the present moment with acceptance, without judgment of oneself or others, is crucial. This involves letting go of the need to control outcomes and embracing impermanence.
Openness to Experience: An open mind and heart are essential. This includes a willingness to question preconceived notions, embrace new perspectives, and surrender to experiences beyond one's understanding.
Compassion and Service: As the ego dissolves, compassion for oneself and others naturally arises. This often manifests as a desire to serve others and contribute to the well-being of the community.
Practical Application of Benevacantism
The philosophy of benevacantism isn't just theoretical; it offers practical strategies for cultivating self-emptying:
Mindfulness Meditation: Regular meditation practice is paramount. Focusing on the breath, bodily sensations, or sounds helps to quiet the mind and cultivate awareness.
Journaling: Writing down thoughts and emotions can provide valuable insights into one's inner world, helping to identify patterns and attachments.
Nature Connection: Spending time in nature can be profoundly grounding and conducive to self-emptying. The natural world offers a sense of perspective and reminds us of our place within a larger context.
Acts of Service: Engaging in acts of service, volunteering, or helping others can shift the focus from the self to others, fostering compassion and humility.
Creative Expression: Creative outlets like art, music, or writing can be powerful tools for processing emotions and fostering self-awareness.
Criticisms and Challenges of Benevacantism
While benevacantism offers a compelling path to spiritual growth, it's not without its criticisms and challenges:
Risk of Passivity: Some critics argue that the emphasis on emptying the self could lead to passivity or inaction. However, proponents emphasize that benevacantism fosters not passivity but rather a conscious and deliberate action rooted in wisdom and compassion.
Difficulty in Achieving "Emptiness": Achieving complete emptiness of the ego is a lifelong process, not an overnight accomplishment. This requires patience, perseverance, and self-compassion.
Potential for Misinterpretation: The concept of "emptiness" can be misinterpreted as nihilism or a lack of purpose. However, benevacantism emphasizes that emptiness is a fertile ground for spiritual growth and a deeper connection with the universe.
Book Outline: "The Benevacant Path: A Journey of Self-Emptying and Spiritual Growth"
I. Introduction:
Defining Benevacantism
Historical Context and Influences
The Benefits of Self-Emptying
II. Understanding the Self:
Exploring the Ego and its Limitations
Cultivating Self-Awareness through Mindfulness
Identifying Limiting Beliefs and Attachments
III. Practices for Self-Emptying:
Mindfulness Meditation Techniques
Journaling for Self-Reflection
Connecting with Nature for Grounding
Engaging in Acts of Service and Compassion
IV. Overcoming Challenges:
Addressing Potential Pitfalls of Benevacantism
Cultivating Patience and Self-Compassion
Maintaining Balance and Purpose
V. The Fruits of Benevacantism:
Experiencing Greater Inner Peace and Clarity
Fostering Deeper Connections with Others
Developing a Sense of Meaning and Purpose
Chapter Breakdown: "The Benevacant Path"
(Detailed explanations for each chapter would follow here, expanding on the bullet points above. Each chapter would be approximately 200-300 words, providing in-depth discussion and examples.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is benevacantism a religion? No, benevacantism is a philosophical approach to spiritual growth, not a formal religion.
2. How is benevacantism different from nihilism? Benevacantism embraces emptiness as a pathway to growth and connection, while nihilism rejects meaning and purpose.
3. Is self-emptying the same as suppressing emotions? No, self-emptying involves observing emotions without judgment, not suppressing them.
4. How long does it take to master benevacantism? It's a lifelong journey, not a destination. Progress is gradual and requires consistent effort.
5. What are the potential risks of benevacantism? Potential risks include passivity if not practiced mindfully, and misinterpretations of the concept of emptiness.
6. Can anyone practice benevacantism? Yes, individuals from various backgrounds and beliefs can find value in its principles.
7. How can I find a community of like-minded individuals? Online forums, spiritual groups, and meditation centers may offer connections.
8. Are there any books or resources on benevacantism? While there isn't extensive literature specifically on benevacantism, resources on mindfulness, Buddhist philosophy, and Christian kenosis can be helpful.
9. What if I feel overwhelmed during the practice? It's important to be patient and compassionate with yourself. Take breaks when needed and seek guidance from a teacher or mentor if necessary.
Related Articles:
1. Mindfulness Meditation for Beginners: A guide to basic mindfulness techniques.
2. The Power of Self-Compassion: Exploring the benefits of self-kindness.
3. Understanding the Ego: An exploration of the ego's role in human experience.
4. Buddhist Philosophy and the Path to Enlightenment: An overview of core Buddhist concepts.
5. Christian Mysticism and Contemplative Prayer: Exploring Christian practices of self-emptying.
6. Sufism and the Journey to Divine Unity: Examining the Sufi path to spiritual awakening.
7. The Importance of Detachment in Spiritual Growth: Discussing the benefits of letting go of attachments.
8. Journaling for Self-Discovery and Emotional Healing: A guide to using journaling for self-reflection.
9. Connecting with Nature for Stress Reduction and Well-being: Exploring the restorative power of nature.
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| benevacantism: Rebuilding Catholic Culture Ryan Nathan Scott Topping, Ryan Topping, 2013-01-18 Rarely does a book come along that so succinctly explains the decline of modern culture, articulates a defense of the Church's teachings, and offers a hope-filled path for building a civilization grounded in Catholic truth. In these pages, Dr. Ryan Topping does all three, pulling back the curtain on the false philosophies of the secularists and showing that in the West today the most formidable threat to freedom is not failing economies or Islam, but secularism. Our best defense, he claims, is a vibrant Catholic culture, and our best hope for creating it lies in the principles found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. In Rebuilding Catholic Culture, you'll discover sensible ways to begin restoring Catholic culture - right now-in your own life and family, and in our larger communities as well: in the theater, in the classroom, in our hospitals, and even in the public square. This profoundly accessible book will renew your confidence in the world-transforming character of our Creed and in the potency of our Faith to shape and redefine the culture of the West. Book jacket. |
| benevacantism: The Secret of Benedict XVI Antonio Socci, 2019-05-24 Questions keep arising about what really happened in 2013 with the surprising resignation of Benedict XVI, his decision to remain on as pope emeritus, and thus the presence of two popes living side-by-side. In this compelling work, Socci investigates the mysterious mission to which Benedict XVI has felt called in service of the Church. |
| benevacantism: Joseph Ratzinger Maximilian Heinrich Heim, 2007 This is a major work on the theology of Joseph Ratzinger by a highly regarded German theologian, priest and writer. Since his election to the Papacy, Ratzinger's theology, and in particular his ecclesiology (theology of the Church), has been in the limelight of theological and ecumenical discussions. This work studies in detail Ratzinger's ecclesiology in the light of Vatican II, against the ongoing debate about what Vatican II really meant to say about the life of the Church, its liturgy, its worship, its doctirne, its pastoral mission, and more. |
| benevacantism: The Great Façade Christopher A. Ferrara, Thomas E. Woods, 2002 |
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| benevacantism: The Pope, the Council, and the Mass James Likoudis, K. D. Whitehead, 2006 The Pope, the Council, and the Mass, the definitive response to ?Traditionalist? Catholics when first published in 1981, has been updated to include the developments from the time of the first publication up to, and including, the beginning of the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI. In addressing the concerns raised by the followers of the late Archbishop Lefebvre and other ?Traditionalists?, the authors give a truly Catholic understanding of Tradition, the Second Vatican Council and its implementation, and the nature of true liturgical reform. This book not only provides the reader with a sound perspective on the past, it also offers insight into the present state of the Church and the outlook for the future. History, canon law, ecclesiastical and papal documents, and Scripture are mined in this solid apologetic for a faith that is One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. |
| benevacantism: Rite of Ordination Catholic Church, 2003-10 |
| benevacantism: The Writings of Saint Francis of Assisi St. Francis of Assisi, 2023-12-27 The Writings of Saint Francis of Assisi offers a collection of the profound and timeless teachings of one of the most influential figures in Christian history. Written in a simple and poetic style, the book encompasses St. Francis's reflections on poverty, humility, and love for all of God's creation. His words evoke a sense of spiritual purity and devotion, making this work a classic in literature and a source of inspiration for generations to come. In the context of medieval times, St. Francis's writings stand out for their revolutionary emphasis on simplicity and compassion, challenging the societal norms of the time. St. Francis of Assisi, a revered saint and founder of the Franciscan order, was known for his deep connection to nature and his dedication to living a life of piety and service. His own experiences of conversion and selflessness informed his writings, which continue to resonate with readers seeking spiritual enlightenment and guidance. His legacy as a patron saint of animals and the environment further enriches the significance of his writings. I highly recommend The Writings of Saint Francis of Assisi to readers interested in exploring the spiritual teachings of a compassionate and humble saint. This book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking wisdom, moral guidance, and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. |
| benevacantism: On Schism. [An extract from “A Discourse of Schism.” Edited by Christopher Sidgwick?] Thomas BENNET (D.D.), 1838 |
| benevacantism: The Pope Who Quit Jon M. Sweeney, 2012-02-14 The riveting story of Pope St. Celestine V, the pope who retired from the papacy. At the close of the tumultuous Middle Ages, there lived a man who seemed destined from birth to save the world. His name was Peter Morrone, a hermit, a founder of a religious order, and, depending on whom you talk to, a reformer, an instigator, a prophet, a coward, a saint, and possibly the victim of murder. A stroke of fate would, practically overnight, transform this humble servant of God into the most powerful man in the Catholic Church. Half a year later, he would be the only pope in history to abdicate the chair of St. Peter, an act that nearly brought the papacy to its knees. What led him to make that decision and what happened afterward would be shrouded in mystery for centuries. The Pope Who Quit pulls back the veil of secrecy on this dramatic time in history and showcases a story that involves deadly dealings, apocalyptic maneuverings, and papal intrigue. |
| benevacantism: Pope Francis Francesca Ambrogetti, Sergio Rubin, 2013-04-30 An intimate and personal glimpse inside the mind of the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, through his own words... “I believe in the kindness of others, and that I must love them without fear.”—Jorge Bergoglio, Pope Francis Jorge Bergoglio is the first Latin American pope, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name Francis, after Saint Francis of Assisi, the thirteenth-century friar known for his charity and kindness. Here, in a series of extensive interviews conducted over two years, he reveals the very image of a humble priest and inspired teacher. This is a portrait of a man more interested in substance than style. In spontaneous, intimate terms, he talks about his childhood and family life, his first job, the discovery of his calling, and his early days in the seminary. He was a teacher of psychology and literature who befriended writers such as Jorge Luis Borges. He cites Homer and Cervantes with ease, and names Babette’s Feast as a favorite film and Marc Chagall as a favorite painter. He also takes on uncomfortable subjects: the declining number of priests and nuns; celibacy; the scandals that have rocked the Church; and his experience with the military dictatorship of Argentina. Through his own words, this book reveals a man who is thoughtful and witty, learned and introspective—one whose actions and words reflect his deeply rooted humility. Also included in this volume are Pope Francis’s own writings and reflections—full of wisdom and inspiration. |
| benevacantism: To Change the Church Ross Douthat, 2019-03-19 A New York Times columnist and one of America’s leading conservative thinkers considers Pope Francis’s efforts to change the church he governs in a book that is “must reading for every Christian who cares about the fate of the West and the future of global Christianity” (Rod Dreher, author of The Benedict Option). Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936, today Pope Francis is the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Francis’s stewardship of the Church, while perceived as a revelation by many, has provoked division throughout the world. “If a conclave were to be held today,” one Roman source told The New Yorker, “Francis would be lucky to get ten votes.” In his “concise, rhetorically agile…adroit, perceptive, gripping account (The New York Times Book Review), Ross Douthat explains why the particular debate Francis has opened—over communion for the divorced and the remarried—is so dangerous: How it cuts to the heart of the larger argument over how Christianity should respond to the sexual revolution and modernity itself, how it promises or threatens to separate the church from its own deep past, and how it divides Catholicism along geographical and cultural lines. Douthat argues that the Francis era is a crucial experiment for all of Western civilization, which is facing resurgent external enemies (from ISIS to Putin) even as it struggles with its own internal divisions, its decadence, and self-doubt. Whether Francis or his critics are right won’t just determine whether he ends up as a hero or a tragic figure for Catholics. It will determine whether he’s a hero, or a gambler who’s betraying both his church and his civilization into the hands of its enemies. “A balanced look at the struggle for the future of Catholicism…To Change the Church is a fascinating look at the church under Pope Francis” (Kirkus Reviews). Engaging and provocative, this is “a pot-boiler of a history that examines a growing ecclesial crisis” (Washington Independent Review of Books). |
| benevacantism: The Church's Best-Kept Secret Mark Shea, 2020-09-21 The Church’s Best-Kept Secret is a short primer which lays out the basics of Catholic social teaching in a way accessible to the ordinary Catholic as well as to any other person of good will attempting to grasp this often profoundly misunderstood area of Church doctrine and practice. Writing in everyday language for the non-scholar, award-winning writer Mark Shea concisely describes the roots of Catholic social teaching in Scripture and Tradition and gives simple, practical examples of how it works in ordinary life. Sketching the meaning of the Dignity of the Human Person, the Common Good, Subsidiarity, and Solidarity, Shea bridges the gulf in our politics and cultural warfare to make the case that Catholic Social Teaching, properly understood, is common sense, as well as the path to living a happier and more just common life for each human person. |
| benevacantism: The Dictator Pope Marcantonio Colonna, 2018-04-23 Marcantonio Colonna's The Dictator Pope has rocked Rome and the entire Catholic Church with its portrait of an authoritarian, manipulative, and politically partisan pontiff. Occupying a privileged perch in Rome during the tumultuous first years of Francis’s pontificate, Colonna was privy to the shock, dismay, and even panic that the reckless new pope engendered in the Church’s most loyal and judicious leaders. The Dictator Pope discloses that Father Mario Bergoglio (the future Pope Francis) was so unsuited for ecclesiastical leadership that the head of his own Jesuit order tried to prevent his appointment as a bishop in Argentina. Behind the benign smile of the people's pope Colonna reveals a ruthless autocrat aggressively asserting the powers of the papacy in pursuit of a radical agenda. |
| benevacantism: Unveiling the Apocalypse MR Emmett O'Regan, 2011-07-01 |
| benevacantism: The Ratzinger Report Vittorio Messori, Benedict XVI, 1985 Cardinal Ratzinger speaks candidly and forcefully about the state of the Church in the Post-Vatican II era. Here is the complete text of a meeting many have called a historical turnabout in the Church. The roots of the crisis that has troubled Catholics in the twenty years since the Council are analyzed with forthright clarity by one of the most authoritative voices in the Vatican. Here is a clear and uncompromising report on the dangers that threaten the Faith, from one who every day receives the most reliable information from every continent. Yet Ratzinger's observations are as hopeful and balanced as they are clear-sighted, forcefully re-affirming the immense and positive work of Vatican II, whose genuine fruits this book provides a guideline for achieving. |
| benevacantism: The Spirit of the Liturgy Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, 2014-08-26 New Softcover Edition with Index! Considered by Ratzinger devotees as his greatest work on the Liturgy, this profound and beautifully written treatment of the great prayer of the Church will help readers rediscover the Liturgy in all its hidden spiritual wealth and transcendent grandeur as the very center of our Christian life. Among the many liturgical issues that he covers in this work, Cardinal Ratzinger discusses fundamental misunderstandings of the Second Vatican Council's intentions for liturgical renewal, especially the orientation of prayer at the Eucharistic sacrifice, the placement of the tabernacle, and the posture of kneeling. Other important topics he discusses include the following: the essence of worship; Jewish roots and new elements of the Christian Liturgy; the historic and cosmic dimensions of the Liturgy; the relationship of the Liturgy to time and space; art, music, and the Liturgy; active participation of all the faithful; gestures, posture, and vestments. My purpose here is to assist this renewal of understanding of the Liturgy. Its basic intentions coincide with what Guardini wanted to achieve. The only difference is that I have had to translate what Guardini did at the end of the First World War, in a totally different historical situation, into the context of our present-day questions, hopes, and dangers. Like Guardini, I am not attempting to involve myself with scholarly discussion and research. I am simply offering an aid to the understanding of the faith and to the right way to give the faith its central form of expression in the Liturgy. - Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, from the preface |
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| benevacantism: On Heaven and Earth Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Abraham Skorka, 2015-12-22 New York Times Bestseller! From the man who became Pope Francis, Jorge Mario Bergoglio shares his thoughts on religion, reason, and the challenges the world faces in the 21st century with Abraham Skorka, a rabbi and biophysicist. For years Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, archbishop of Argentina, and Rabbi Abraham Skorka were tenacious promoters of interreligious dialogues on faith and reason. They both sought to build bridges among Catholicism, Judaism, and the world at large. On Heaven and Earth, originally published in Argentina in 2010, brings together a series of these conversations where both men talked about various theological and worldly issues, including God, fundamentalism, atheism, abortion, homosexuality, euthanasia, same-sex marriage, and globalization. From these personal and accessible talks comes a first-hand view of the man who would become pope to 1.2 billion Catholics around the world in March 2013. |
| benevacantism: Jesus of Nazareth Pope Benedict XVI, 2012-12-04 The greatly anticipated third volume of Pope Benedict's already internationally bestselling examination of the life of Jesus Christ and His message for people today. This renowned theologian, biblical scholar and Pastor of over a billion Roman Catholics helps us to rediscover the essence of the Christian Religion. |
| benevacantism: Visions of the End Bernard McGinn, 1998 From millenarists to Antichrist hunters, from the Sibyls to the Hussites, Visions of the End is a monumental compendium spanning the literature of the Christian apocalyptic tradition from the period A.D. 400 to 1500, masterfully selected and complete with a comprehensive introduction and new preface. |
| benevacantism: The Joy of the Gospel Pope Francis, 2014-10-07 The perfect gift! A specially priced, beautifully designed hardcover edition of The Joy of the Gospel with a foreword by Robert Barron and an afterword by James Martin, SJ. “The joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus… In this Exhortation I wish to encourage the Christian faithful to embark upon a new chapter of evangelization marked by this joy, while pointing out new paths for the Church’s journey in years to come.” – Pope Francis This special edition of Pope Francis's popular message of hope explores themes that are important for believers in the 21st century. Examining the many obstacles to faith and what can be done to overcome those hurdles, he emphasizes the importance of service to God and all his creation. Advocating for “the homeless, the addicted, refugees, indigenous peoples, the elderly who are increasingly isolated and abandoned,” the Holy Father shows us how to respond to poverty and current economic challenges that affect us locally and globally. Ultimately, Pope Francis demonstrates how to develop a more personal relationship with Jesus Christ, “to recognize the traces of God’s Spirit in events great and small.” Profound in its insight, yet warm and accessible in its tone, The Joy of the Gospel is a call to action to live a life motivated by divine love and, in turn, to experience heaven on earth. Includes a foreword by Robert Barron, author of Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith and James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage |
| benevacantism: On the Doctrines of the Modernists Pope Pius X, 2023-07-18 Pope Pius X offers a point-by-point refutation of the arguments put forth by the theological movement known as Modernism. With clear and precise language, he defends the traditional teachings of the Catholic Church and rebuts the critiques leveled against them. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant. |
| benevacantism: A Reply to Mr. Gladstone's Vaticanism James W. Kavanagh, 1875 |
| benevacantism: Eschatology Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger, 2007-10 Originally published in English in 1988, Joseph Ratzinger's Eschatology remains internationally recognized as a leading text on the last things—heaven and hell, purgatory and judgment, death and the immortality of the soul. This highly anticipated second edition includes a new preface by Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI and a supplement to the bibliography by theologian Peter A. Casarella. Eschatology presents a balanced perspective of the doctrine at the center of Christian belief—the Church's faith in eternal life. Recognizing the task of contemporary eschatology as to marry perspectives, so that person and community, present and future, are seen in their unity, Joseph Ratzinger brings together recent emphasis on the theology of hope for the future with the more traditional elements of the doctrine. His book has proven to be as timeless as it is timely. |
| benevacantism: The Church of Christ E. Sylvester Berry STD, 2009-07-01 The present volume, being the outgrowth of lectures delivered in the classroom, was originally written in Latin with the intention of supplying a textbook suited to the needs of those beginning the study of theology in our seminaries. . . . It is hoped that the detailed explanations and the simplicity of language will render the work intelligible and useful to a large portion of the laity. With the exception of the Sacraments, there is, perhaps, no subject of more practical interest to clergy and laity alike than that of the Church, yet there are few works in English treating the subject in full. The author trusts that he has made some contribution in this matter by giving a connected and rather detailed account of the origin, constitution, and powers of the Church from the dogmatic as well as from the apologetic point of view. -From the Introduction |
| benevacantism: Laudato Si Pope Francis, 2015-07-18 “In the heart of this world, the Lord of life, who loves us so much, is always present. He does not abandon us, he does not leave us alone, for he has united himself definitively to our earth, and his love constantly impels us to find new ways forward. Praise be to him!” – Pope Francis, Laudato Si’ In his second encyclical, Laudato Si’: On the Care of Our Common Home, Pope Francis draws all Christians into a dialogue with every person on the planet about our common home. We as human beings are united by the concern for our planet, and every living thing that dwells on it, especially the poorest and most vulnerable. Pope Francis’ letter joins the body of the Church’s social and moral teaching, draws on the best scientific research, providing the foundation for “the ethical and spiritual itinerary that follows.” Laudato Si’ outlines: The current state of our “common home” The Gospel message as seen through creation The human causes of the ecological crisis Ecology and the common good Pope Francis’ call to action for each of us Our Sunday Visitor has included discussion questions, making it perfect for individual or group study, leading all Catholics and Christians into a deeper understanding of the importance of this teaching. |
| benevacantism: Amoris Laetitia Pope Francis, 2016-04-22 “All of us are called to keep striving towards something greater than ourselves and our families, and every family must feel this constant impulse. Let us make this journey as families, let us keep walking together.” Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia In his groundbreaking work on modern family life, Amoris Laetitia: On Love in the Family, Pope Francis continues to guide and lead the Church, calling us to be a sign of mercy and encouragement for families of all shapes and sizes. The Our Sunday Visitor edition includes exclusive reflection and discussion questions, to help Catholics grow in our understanding of this call, and act upon it. In Amoris Laetitia: On Love in the Family the Holy Father expands on the topics and considerations of the two Synods on the family, and adds his own considerations to help us provide pastoral guidance to support and strengthen today’s families. On Love in the Family guides us through: Scripture – what we can learn from Biblical families and relationships with God and each other Reality – the experiences and challenges we face in today’s world Tradition – essential aspects of Church teaching on marriage and families Love – what it means for all our relationships Ministry – Pope Francis offers pastoral perspectives for helping build strong families Spirituality – the expression of the Gospel message in our relationships |
| benevacantism: Historical Dictionary of Catholicism William J. Collinge, 2021-08-15 This work covers the whole history of Catholicism, including the periods of Christian history prior to the present divisions into Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant, but within the earlier periods it focuses on the “story line” that leads to Catholicism in the Roman Rite, and particularly to Roman Catholicism in the United States. The Historical Dictionary of Catholicism, Third Edition contains a chronology, an introduction, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has more than 500 cross-referenced entries on important persons and places as well as themes such as baptism, contraception, labor, church architecture, the sexual abuse crisis, Catholic history, doctrine and theology, spirituality and worship, moral and social teaching, and church structure. This book is an excellent resource for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Catholicism. |
| benevacantism: Africae Munus. Esortazione Apostolica. Ediz. Inglese Benedetto XVI (Joseph Ratzinger), 2011 |
| benevacantism: Catholic Matters Richard John Neuhaus, 2007-03-09 In Catholic Matters, Father Neuhaus addresses the many controversies that have marked recent decades of American Catholicism. Looking beyond these troubles to the splendor of truth that constitutes the Church, he proposes a forward-thinking way of being Catholic in America. Drawing on his personal encounters with the late John Paul II and Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, Neuhaus describes their hope for a springtime of world evangelization, Christian unity, and Catholic renewal. Catholic Matters reveals a vibrant Church, strengthened and unified by hardship and on the cusp of a great revival in spiritual vitality and an even greater contribution to our common life. |
| benevacantism: Jesus Gives Himself Chardon Sisters of Notre Dame, Ohio, Sisters of Notre Dame Chardon Ohio, 2008-08-01 The 2009 edition of Christ Our Life for grades 1-8 maintains the tradition of teaching and reaching God's children. Written by the Sisters of Notre Dame, Christ Our Life continues to provide the thorough foundation of our Catholic faith for which the series has been known. |
| benevacantism: Christus Vivit Pope Francis, 2019-04-04 To young Christians of the world, Pope Francis has a message for you: Christ is alive, and he wants you to be alive! In his fourth apostolic exhortation, Christus Vivit, Pope Francis encapsulates the work of the 2018 synod of bishops on Young People, The Faith, and Vocational Discernment. Pope Francis has always had a special relationship with young people, and in his fatherly love for you he shows that: You can relate to young people in Scripture who made a difference You identify with the Christ who is always young You face difficult issues in the world today You yearn for the truth of the Gospel You are capable of amazing things when you respond to the Gospel You learn and grow with help from the faithful of all generations You need bold and creative youth ministry You can discover who God made you to be You are urged to pray for discernment Christus Vivit is written for and to young people, but Pope Francis also wrote it for the entire Church, because, as he says, reflecting on our young people inspires us all. May the Holy Spirit urge you on as you run this race. The Church needs your momentum, your intuitions, your faith. We need them! And when you arrive where we have not yet reached, have the patience to wait for us. |
| benevacantism: Pope Francis: Life and Revolution Elisabetta Pique, 2015-01-02 'In Italy, they call him il Papa, which means The FATHER'. Until his unprecedented 2013 election, author and friend Elisabetta Piqu� called him Padre Jorge. He may have changed his name to become Pope Francis, but it did not change their friendship.Written in a style that brings the man to life and reveals fascinating and decisive episodes that shed light on his influential character and personality, Pope Francis: Life and Revolution offers unique insights into how the Pope thinks and feels; his work for the poor; and his vision for the Church. Piqu� reveals the personal side of Pope Francis - his freedom, courage, humility, humanity, and humour - and the profoundly spiritual influence his Jesuit formation has had on the man who now leads the Catholic Church.Above all else, Pope Francis: Life and Revolution reveals a man consistent in his beliefs and actions. He is a spiritual leader unwavering in his love for God, whose inner joy and peace move him - and can inspire us - to serve the least, the last, and the lost. |
| benevacantism: The Sacrament of Charity Pope Benedict XVI, 2007-05-01 Pope Benedict XVI continues the theme of his first encyclical, God Is Love, in this apostolic exhortation by proclaiming that in the sacrament of the Eucharist, Jesus shows us the truth about love. As the Holy Father explains the meaning of the sacrament and its relationship to our daily lives, he helps us to see what an authentically eucharistic spirituality looks like and how this sacrament of love is meant to extend beyond the liturgy to permeate every aspect of our lives. |
| benevacantism: Spe Salvie Pope Benedict XVI, Catholic Church. Pope (2005 - : Benedict XVI), 2007 Pope Benedict's second encyclical, Spe Salvi, On Christian Hope, is inspired by St Paul's letter to the Romans. |
| benevacantism: The Code of Canon Law , 2023 |
| benevacantism: On WOMEN's CONTEMPLATIVE LIFE - APOSTOLIC CONSTITUTION VULTUM DEI QUAERERE holy Pope holy POPE FRANCIS, 2016-06-29 Given in Rome, at Saint Peter's, on 29 June, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, in the year 2016, the fourth of my Pontificate.FRANCISCUS |
