Christian Life Research Articles

Mimetic desire in Augustine’s Confessiones as a model for natural theology and virtue ethics

This article examined the concept and notability of mimetic desire in Augustine’s autobiographical work Confessiones. Mimetic desire is based primarily on the knowledge that there is a Perfect Being, viz. God, ideal forms (in Platonic idiom), which may be known and imitated by humans. Mimesis demonstrates that humans have a natural capacity and tendency to imitate and possess what others have. Despite this, in popular culture, mimesis has the connotation of feyness and is discouraged in place of inventiveness. The culture and spirit of our day promote originality and inventiveness without an understanding of the human nature and its inherent mimetic desires. The concept of mimetic desire is rooted in Rene Girard’s theory of anthropology but can be traced back as far as Plato’s Republic. Therefore, this interdisciplinary concept has been explored through Augustine’s narratological composition of Confessiones. The introspective tone and cultural forming narratives that make up Confessiones were succinctly examined in the context of mimetic theory. The triangular structure of mimetic desire was further explored to gain a better understanding of how Augustine relied on mimesis in his conversion to Christianity. The choice of imitating authentic models led to Augustine’s moral renewal, and likewise such implications are relevant to modern-day Christians. Moreover, this article aims to promote the concept of mimesis as an ideal practise concerning human nature and conditioning, towards a virtuous and morally acceptable society. The results of this article underline the importance of narrative theory and friendship in developing positive cultures through mimesis. Through contrasting Augustine’s earlier Manichaean life and his later Christian life, an illustration of mimetic desire can be drawn, and for Augustine, this could only mean Christ.Contribution: This article contributes to the ongoing interdisciplinary studies of ontology, anthropology, theology, and sociology. By interpreting or reading Augustine’s Confessiones through the lens of mimetic desire, this article offers an alternative perspective on Augustine’s natural theology and virtue ethics. It further presents the conceptual framework of mimesis on Christian and Platonist praxis of the ideal forms. Moreover, the article of the narratological composition of Confessiones expounds the importance of interpersonal relationships in our spiritual growth. The triangular structure of mimesis was further expounded in the context of interior life, viz. interior homo [inner man] as the ultimate model.

Disciples and Friends: Investigations in Disability, Dementia, and Mental Health

Disciples and Friends: Investigations in Disability, Dementia, and Mental Health

Ignatian Spirituality and Racism

Abstract: This article uses the spirituality of Ignatius Loyola's Spiritual Exercises to show theologically Christianity's intrinsic bearing on American racism. Working from a definition of racism, and inspired by the work of Ignacio Ellacuría, it stipulates certain modern theological principles for interpreting the Exercises in a racist context, and then proposes four dimensions of the logic of the Exercises that bring them to bear on Christian life in America today.

Disciples and Friends: Investigations in Disability, Dementia, and Mental Health

Disciples and Friends: Investigations in Disability, Dementia, and Mental Health

Imitating Christ: Bavinck’s Application of an Ethical Norm in the First Commandment

Abstract This essay seeks to examine the distinctive way that Herman Bavinck employs the imitation of Christ within Reformed Ethics. The distinctive way in which Bavinck understands and applies the imitation of Christ in his exposition of the commandments is helpfully clarified in conversation with his contemporary, Wilhelm Geesink. Both Bavinck and Geesink penned a Reformed Ethic – one remained unpublished and the other posthumously published – in which they share methodological commitments to scripture, the law, and the Reformed tradition’s understanding of the normativity of the law for the Christian life. An analysis of the two thinkers on the first commandment shows, however, that amidst these striking similarities, Bavinck and Geesink differ in their appeal to the imitation of Christ as a guide for the Christian life. Through an examination of Bavinck’s ethical method and both Bavinck and Geesink’s exposition of the first commandment, this essay will highlight the centrality of the imitation of Christ in Bavinck’s ethics as an ethical norm, differentiating his application of the duties of the commandment for the Christian life from his contemporaries.

Factors Affecting the Students' Behavior during the Eucharistic Celebration

The Eucharist is one of the most vital aspects of faith. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church proclaims, the Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. There are considerable factors needed to promote a meaningful Celebration, and one is the active participation of the members. What do we mean by active participation? It is the utmost attention and focuses only on the celebration. However, this idea is difficult to grasp due to the overwhelming disaster that hits the world talking about the Pandemic. Many of whom have tremendously been affected by the phenomenon. Unfortunately, some have lost their faith and started doing things opposite to what they did before. This research aims to pinpoint and understand the prominent reasons that have affected individuals’ participation in the Holy Eucharist. The research focuses on the basic education students at St. Paul University Surigao, and their holistic formation is involved in the Holy Eucharist. Results have shown that most students still exhibit the same passion for attending Holy Mass and are unaffected by some corresponding influences. Nevertheless, these factors are recognized so that the conflict will be resolved. Despite all, results still have shown that students are willing to attend the celebration and are open to a meaningful Holy Eucharist celebration.

Book Review: Deep and Wide: Reflections on Socio-Political Engagement, Monasticism(s), and the Christian Life

Book Review: Deep and Wide: Reflections on Socio-Political Engagement, Monasticism(s), and the Christian Life

Upaya Yang Dilakukan Orang Kristen Dalam Meningkatkan Kerohanian

The reasons why Christians find it difficult to mature spiritually include: 1) slowness to listen, 2) feeling that they already know, 3) hardening their hearts against God's words, 4) believing because they only want to get blessings, and 5) their first love for God has faded. The purpose of this research is to study and understand the efforts made by Christians in improving their spiritual life and the benefits are to provide better insight and understanding of effective practices in improving the spiritual life of Christians. Furthermore, the research method used by this author is a descriptive qualitative research method through library research related to "How Believers Improve Spirituality". In addition, the focus of discussion in this study is to provide understanding to believers in improving spirituality through prayer, reading the Bible, worship, and participating in church services. This research can also provide valuable input for churches and spiritual leaders in providing more effective mentoring and teaching for the spiritual growth of the congregation.

Discerning the Holy Spirit in the World of Religious Pluralism(s), Secularism(s), and Science(s): A Multilayered Constructive Christian Vision of Pneumatology for the Third Millennium

Abstract This essay seeks to reimagine Christian pneumatology in a radically new key. This plural and multilayered vision allows us to discern the presence and work of the Spirit of God in the cosmos, in the secular and religiously pluralistic world and society, as well as in Christian life at both the ecclesial and personal levels. No need to mention that this kind of authentically Christian reimagining can only be accomplished in an integral trinitarian framework. This plural paradigm engages critically spiritual “powers” and energies (as in traditional “angelology”), the S/spirit(s) in other religions, the spirit(s) of the public realm (as in sciences, politics, and economy), and the spiritual aspects of (post-)secularism. And in difference from the traditional limited conception of the Spirit’s work to the “spiritual,” the multilayered and complex account of pneumatology seeks to envision the Spirit’s work in all aspects of the world and life.

The Kenosis Of Jesus Christ: Model Of The Christian Life According To Philippians 2:5-11

In the ancient city of Philippi, resonant with echoes of a bygone prosperity, the apostle Paul wove an indelible narrative in his epistle to the Philippians. Penned during his Roman imprisonment, this literary masterpiece, nestled within the realm of captivity epistles, expresses gratitude to a church intimately entwined with Paul's challenges. At its core lies a profound theme—the "Kenosis of Jesus Christ," unraveling divine humility as expounded in Philippians 2:5-11. This theological journey delves into diverse interpretations by researchers, spanning epochs from the Church Fathers to contemporary theologians. While the Church Fathers grapple with the dual nature of Jesus, reformers and modern theologians provide nuanced perspectives, revealing the enduring relevance of kenosis. The ramifications of kenosis on Malagasy life manifest in humanitarian salvation, exemplified in the voluntary abasement and subsequent exaltation of Jesus Christ outlined in Philippians 2:5-11. This transformative power extends beyond theological discourse, influencing progress, national reconciliation, and ecclesiastical renewal in the daily life of Madagascar. Examining the compatibility of kenosis with Madagascar's development, we discern its potential as both a tool and an obstacle. As an effective tool, kenosis aligns with the true preaching of the Gospel and the lived experience of humility, fostering a trajectory toward societal flourishing. However, as an obstacle, it is manifested in the tolerance of injustice, conflicting with the current societal situation. Kenosis emerges as a profound concept in Christian theology, inviting believers to embody the humility exemplified by Christ. The theological journey traverses diverse interpretations, illuminating the richness and complexity of this motif. In the context of Madagascar, kenosis catalyzes positive shifts in daily life, national reconciliation, and ecclesiastical renewal. This paradigm offers a transformative pathway for countries in progress, transcending economic metrics to embrace societal flourishing. The compatibility of kenosis with Madagascar's development calls for a recalibration of societal values, blending true Gospel preaching and humility to counter contemporary challenges and embrace the profound meaning of kenosis.

Pandangan Lembaga Keagamaan Kota Medan Tentang Ajaran Islam Salafi dan Kristen Kharismatik

This research aims to describe what is meant by Salafi Islam and Christian Christianity and what the MUI views regarding the teachings of Charismatic Islam. This research is a type of library research. This research uses a phenomenological approach with comparative theory. The phenomenological approach seeks to let reality reveal itself naturally. The data sources for this research are library materials in the form of books, writings, encyclopedias, journals and other sources relevant to this topic. The results of this research show that Salafi and Charismatic Christian teachings are two religious sects that have quite striking differences in beliefs, practices and approaches. theological. According to the view of Islamic scholars, Salafis prioritize a literal and literal understanding of the Qur'an, emphasize monotheism, and reject the practice of heresy. They try to maintain Islamic practices which they believe are in accordance with the initial teachings. On the other hand, Charismatic Christians prioritize spiritual experiences and the gifts of the Holy Spirit in Christian life. They believe that the Holy Spirit is active in providing gifts such as speaking in tongues, spiritual healing, and other charismatic experiences.

Assessing Ghanaian Primal Consciousness: A Key Factor in Pentecostal-Charismatic Christianity

The article examined the influence of the Ghanaian primal consciousness on Pentecostal-Charismatic Christianity. Although the primal religion seems to have lost its physical presence in the Ghanaian religious space, its ideologies and tenets continue to be alive in the lives of many Pentecostal-Charismatic Christians. Relying on the researcher’s pastoral experience, personal observations and by paying attention to some sayings and proverbs of some Pentecostals, the study identified the extent to which primal consciousness affects Pentecostal Christianity in Ghana. It discovered that while some elements of the primal religion are closely related to Christianity and may thus positively affect it, others appear to be in opposition to biblical truth and may thus affect it negatively. The study posits that a good knowledge of the reality of the effect of the primal consciousness by Pentecostal-Charismatic churches would advance the Christian mission in Africa. The article adds to existing literature on the impact of the primal religion on Christianity. Keywords: Primal consciousness, Pentecostal-Charismatic Christianity, Ghana, religion.

Nota Ecclesiae. Katolickość w świetle włoskiej eklezjologii posoborowej

We can understand catholicity as a gift and task for the Church. In catholicity is written not only the diversity of charismas, spiritual and liturgical traditions, and ministries, but also the diversity of local Churches. It is obvious, that inculturation, catholicity, mission and ecumenism are interconnected. Catholicity is a feature of the Church that expresses the fullness, integrity, and whole life of Christ. It is the essential element of the communion, gathering all people, races and cultures in a community where the one Church of God is revealed and realized. The above issues were presented in the light of post-conciliar Italian ecclesiology.

Naindayawan-A-Rambak-Ti-Gimong: An Inculturation of the Eucharist in Ilocano

This study aims to elevate the discourse on the imperative of Liturgical Inculturation and propose general suggestions on how to shape a more relevant and meaningful Ilocano celebration of the Eucharist. It emphasizes Vatican II’s liturgical reform while maintaining fidelity to the nature of the culture – the Ilocano culture. The study was conducted with the parishioners of Our Lady of Fatima (OLF) in Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya, shedding light on the inquiry: “Is the liturgical rite prescribed by the Catholic Church still meaningful and relevant among Ilocanos at present, particularly the parishioners of OLF?” The results of the study revealed that the Eucharist holds an ambivalent significance for many Ilocanos, particularly the parishioners of OLF. Undoubtedly, Ilocanos regard the Eucharist as the center – the source and summit – of their Christian life. However, the Ilocano Catholics of OLF lack a proper understanding of how the Eucharist operates or functions in their lives. Furthermore, many Ilocanos display ignorance or a lack of proper understanding about the Eucharist. Additionally, many Ilocano Catholics tend to separate the Eucharist from their daily lives. Given these alarming situations, liturgical inculturation becomes relevant at this juncture. The full, conscious, active, and fruitful participation of Ilocanos in the Eucharist can be achieved through a mutual integration of the rite prescribed by the Church and their native culture. This approach respects the process of integration, allowing both the Eucharist and Ilocano culture to evolve through mutual insertion and absorption while preserving their identities. Thus, the Eucharist, ritually expressed in a Roman form, is assimilated and reformulated in a language and form that Ilocanos can understand and actively participate in. It is here that genuine integration takes place. Keywords: inculturation, contextualization, dynamic equivalence, worship, liturgy, Ilocanos, Catholic liturgy

Tradition as ‘Formative Environment’: Congar and Christian Formation

AbstractAlthough the theology of Tradition of the Dominican Yves Congar was highly influential in drafting the Dogmatic Constitution Dei Verbum at the Second Vatican Council, postconciliar debates neglected some of the most original aspects of this theology. This article proposes a retrieval of the notion of Tradition as ‘milieu éducatif’, advanced by the theologian in Tradition and Traditions, as a valuable resource for contemporary discussions on Christian formation. It intends to highlight how Congar connected the theological realities of revelation and its transmission by the Church with the concrete practice of Christian life. This notion is, then, put in conversation with contemporary Christian thinkers who have reflected on the practical aspects of Christian formation, chiefly James K.A. Smith. This dialogue aims to show the relevance of Congar’s notion to current discussions. While the theology of Tradition exposed by the French Dominican can be completed and specified by current proposals, it can also offer a new theological depth to those proposals.

KONSEP KEKUDUSAN MENURUT IMAMAT 18 DAN IMPLIKASINYA TERHADAP KONSELING PRANIKAH KAUM MUDA DI GEREJA BETHEL INDONESIA TABGHA BATAM CENTER

Pre-marital counseling is an activity held for unmarried parties, in connection with their wedding plans. These parties come to the counselor to make their decisions so that they are more stable and can make better adjustments in the future. Marriage counseling or what is commonly called marriage counseling is an effort to help the prospective bride and groom. Marriage counseling is carried out by professional counselors. The goal is that they can develop and be able to solve the problems they face through ways of mutual respect, tolerance, and communication, in order to achieve family motivation, development, independence, and the welfare of all family members.
 The purpose of personal counseling specifically has the main and foremost goal in mentoring, namely introducing the counselee to Jesus Christ with the power of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God and helping the counselee to become like Christ. This counseling is a service process so that the counselee has a life change and experiences recovery from the intervention of the Holy Spirit and accepts the Lord Jesus as a personal Savior so that the counselee lives and grows in a better spirituality.
 This service can be done by a counselor or a servant of God to help church members free from dark powers. Through this counseling service, the counselor will check the personal acceptance of Jesus; confession to God; ask forgiveness from God; deliverance prayer service; convinced of a new identity in Christ. Discipleship ministry (follow up) is very important for people who have just been released from the bonds of dark power. The strategy that the church must do is to make disciples or guide personally so that the counselee knows more about Jesus and grows more in Jesus Christ.
 Holiness is a state or quality of being holy. Holiness is a sign of a believer's spiritual life that must be continuously strived for, including ethical behavior. The Christian life and holiness are an inseparable unity in the believer. God's holiness has a lot to do with the people He chooses. Election/covenant is a unique expression of God's holiness. Because God is holy, God also requires His people to live holy lives (Leviticus 11:44). God shows His holiness in His actions for the salvation of the people He has chosen (Num. 20:13).

THE ART OF ICON IN THE CONSTANTINIAN ERA – PATRISTIC FOUNDATION OF THE ICON

The freedom of expression of the Christian faith, acquired by the Church following the edict of Mediolanum, from the year 313, favored the flourishing of church life in all its aspects, including that of sacred art, therefore also of iconography. The one who gave the impetus to this process was, without a doubt, the Holy Emperor Constantine the Great himself. For their part, the Holy Fathers of the Church encouraged the representation in icons of the martyrdom of the holy martyrs and provided, at the same time, the arguments that contributed to the foundation of the presence and role of the icon in the life of Christians and in that of the Church. Therefore, it is not surprising that, starting from this period, a constant development of Christian sacred art followed in all the provinces of the empire, both through the multiplication of iconographic themes, inspired either by the universe of the imperial court, or by the martyrdom of the holy martyrs, or even by the tradition pagan, as well as by using increasingly elaborate techniques. The present study aims to follow the evolution of the older iconographic themes, to identify and shed light on the new iconographic themes, their sources and also their concordance with the teaching of faith synthesized and systematized by the Church during the ecumenical councils from Nicaea (325), Constantinople (381), Ephesus (431) and Chalcedon (451), whose teaching is transmitted through these iconographic themes.

FAITH IN GOD – AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF TODAY’S YOUTH EDUCATION

In contemporary society marked by secularized tendencies, sometimes aggressive towards the universe of religious faith, a mentality is taking shape according to which religious education must be separated from formal education in school and reduced to the Church, thus depriving today's young people of the knowledge of an authentic, spiritual experience. Religious education is not in conflict with science and scientific knowledge, but responds to the inner needs of young people, which are particularly concerned with the heavenly and eternal dimension. From the moment of creation, man has always longed for eternity, and a Christian education from childhood helps him to fulfil this longing. An authentic and permanent Christian education offers children and young people the prospect of a Christian life, the power to fulfil the evangelical moral precepts which lead to fulfilment.

Natura liturgii i jej znaczenie dla życia Kościoła w świetle Konstytucji Sacrosanctum Concilium

The Second Vatican Council contributed much to the development of the theology of the liturgy, liturgical theology, but also introduced some practical and legal changes in the celebration and organization of liturgical life. The way to liturgical reform was reopened primarily by involving the laity. Liturgy, as the source and summit of Christian life, gives meaning to the Church and strengthens it on the way of salvation.

The Distinction between Theology and Ethics: A Critical History

ABSTRACTThis article sketches an intellectual history of the distinction between Christian theology and Christian ethics. The twists and turns of that history have been obscured by a recent tendency to deny the distinction's usefulness, as part of a wider strategy for reasserting theology's relevance to modern social problems. By contrast, earlier theologians assumed the value of the theology/ethics divide, interpreting it through Aristotelian, neo‐Kantian, and finally Marxist categories. The distinction fell into disrepute because theologians struggled to maintain the distinction consistently and disagreed on the concerns implicated by it, variously using it to affirm the moral subject's agency, the divine/human difference, or the complexity of real people's circumstances. Nonetheless, the distinction has persisted as a useful shorthand for recognizing the limitations of Christian theology, qua a conceptual discourse, in fully apprehending its subject matter of the Christian life.