Ethical Formation: The Theological Virtues

Abstract

This chapter explores what Thomas Aquinas called “participation of the Godhead,” by specifically considering these questions: (1) are the so-called theological virtues (faith, hope, charity) acquired in fundamentally different ways than the moral virtues such as justice and prudence; (2) in what way does the acquisition of the theological virtues make the moral person’s character different than if that person had not acquired them; and (3) what is meant by the expression “by the power of God alone”? The third question is developed in light of Thomas’ account of the Holy Spirit, whose proper name, Thomas states, is Love (charity = caritas) and whose mission is to move the saints toward their God-given ends.