

Ep. 1 - First Steps on the Way of the Fathers
11 snips Oct 17, 2019
Discover the intriguing roles of early Christian fathers in shaping faith and doctrine. Explore the four defining qualities that marked these influential figures and their multicultural impact. Delve into how they established key elements of Catholic teaching, especially during pivotal councils. Notably, the contributions of early female figures in preserving Christian beliefs are highlighted, showcasing the rich tapestry of early Church history and its relevance today.
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Fathers of the Church
- Christian tradition identifies certain teachers as "Fathers of the Church."
- These Fathers, from the patristic era, are distinguished by holiness, sound doctrine, antiquity, and Church approval.
The Fathers' Chain of Wisdom
- The Fathers, like St. Vincent and St. Irenaeus, studied earlier Fathers, creating a chain of wisdom.
- This "catena" of testimonies supports doctrines like Mary's veneration as Mother of God.
Authority of the Fathers
- The Fathers' authority comes from their "constitutive role" in Catholic teaching, says Cardinal Ratzinger.
- They represent the Church's acceptance of God's revelation, forming an essential part of it.