Lumen Fidei - The Light of Faith

On the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, June 29, the Holy Father, Pope Francis, promulgated his first encyclical letter, Lumen Fidei (The Light of Faith). It completes the trilogy of Benedict XVI on the theological virtues. Pope Benedict had, in fact, completed a first draft of an encyclical on faith which was taken up by Pope Francis, who added a few contributions of his own. The work has been described as "a bridge that connects the pontificates of Benedict XVI and Francis."

Over these summer weeks, our bulletin (and this page) will provide a few passages from this unique text that is a great highlight in our observance of the Year of Faith. Thank you, Holy Father, Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus, Benedict!

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Chapter Two: Unless you believe, you will not understand (Is 7:9)

Faith without truth does not save; it does not provide a sure footing. It remains a beautiful story...reduced to a lofty sentiment...incapable of sustaining a steady journey through life. But because of its intrinsic link to truth, faith is able...to offer a new light...for it sees into the distance and takes into account the hand of God, who remains faithful to his covenant and his promises.

Today more than ever, we need to be reminded of this bond between faith and truth. We often tend to consider the only real truth to be that of technology, truth is what we succeed in building and measuring by our scientific know how, truth is what works and what makes life easier...more comfortable. Nowadays, this appears as the only truth that is certain...that can be shared and can serve as a basis for discussion for common undertakings. Yet, we are willing to allow for subjective truths of the individual, which consist in fidelity to his or her deepest convictions, but these are truths valid only for that individual and not capable of being proposed to others to serve the common good. In the end, what we are left with is relativism.

~to be continued next week