Catholic Interpretation Of Sacramental Theology Ha

1541 Words7 Pages
Catholic interpretation of sacramental theology has evolved over many years. The traditional definition of a sacrament which stemmed from St Augustine in the mid 300’s is “that a sacrament is a visible sign of invisible grace” (De Gidio, 1994, p4). This formed the basis for the Council of Baltimore in 1884 when it pronounced that a sacrament was an” outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace” (De Gidio, 1994, p4). This definition gave rise to a legalistic interpretation. Today the definition of a sacrament is much broader and more inclusive. It incorporates those things which bring us closer to God, the church and Jesus. Richard McBrien (1996) tells us that “a sacrament not only signifies, it also causes what it signifies” (p5). As De Gidio (1994) suggests sacraments are now considered opportunities for those already in God’s grace to celebrate the presence of Jesus in all things. Barnes in Cooke, Barnes & Roberts (2003) writes that “sacraments take us out of ordinary or profane life to discover the drama or beauty of the divine” (p77) and thus experience Jesus. To understand the changes in sacramental theology and how it is impacted by Jesus’ presence, it important to examine the history of the church, it’s scriptures and the development of its traditions as these form the basis of the belief held by the Church and it’s followers (Boersma, 2011) . In the beginnings of our sacramental theology it was easy for believers to witness Jesus inthe sacraments. He participated in the lives of the community. He was “the sacrament of God.”(De Gidio, 1994,) The gospels and parables show how he led both his disciples and community by his example. Jesus was a “visible sign of something invisible” (God’s love) (De Gidio 1994, p5). People could see his humanity in how he lived his life. However once he had gone, people began to look to each other

More about Catholic Interpretation Of Sacramental Theology Ha

Open Document