St. Augustine of Hippo (354–430) summarizes the Christian vision
As we teach in the Catholic tradition, we draw inspiration from Church history:“present of things past, memory.”
We are part of the largest organization in the world only a God inspire organization would last so long
Through many trials and tribulations over more than 2,000 years, the Church has presented a clear, though imperfect, vision of salvation, redemption, divine truth, and human dignity to the world. In short, we are part of something larger than ourselves, something supremely meaningful.
We defend life.In the fourth century, Christian bishops persuaded Emperor Valentinian to outlaw infanticide and to provide funds to the Church to support orphans.
We praise God in song.In the seventh century, St. Gregory the Great invented Gregorian chant, giving us the roots of written music.
We are giving.In the late eighth century, Peter’s Pence, the earliest large-scale organized charitable group, was created.
We seek to know God’s creation more intimately.In the ninth century, universities were created out of the cathedral schools. (The University of Leuven in Belgium, founded in 1425, is the oldest Catholic university still in existence.)
We see nature as a gift from God.St. Bonaventure observed that St. Francis of Assisi (1182–1226), “from a reflection on the primary source of all things, filled with even more abundant piety, … would call creatures, no matter how small, by the name of ‘brother’ or ‘sister.’”
We create tools to help discover God’s majesty.In the 16th century, the Vatican Observatory was founded—one of the oldest astronomical research institutions in the world. The modern calendar, organized by Pope Gregory XIII, soon followed.
We attempt to heal not only the soul and mind, but the body, as well. We are the largest supplier of healthcare in the world.
We speak out against injustice.In 1922, Oregonians made public school attendance compulsory. In short, the state wanted to close parochial schools. TheSociety of Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Maryargued that parents have the right to send their children to the school of their choosing. The Sisters took this battle all the way to the United States Supreme Court.
Throughout history, we have stood for this vision. Today we are still seeing new things: “present of things present, sight.” Brace yourselves for the sight of the amazing gifts and talents that will be uncovered this year.
Building the kingdom of God depends on this process of discovery.
Pope Francis reminds us inThe Joy of the Gospelthat each Christians is to care “for the grain and does not grow impatient at the weeds” (24). What a glorious challenge!
However, even Pope Francis admits that he gets impatient and flustered at times. He gives sage advice on how to deal with this.