Matthew Becklo, writer and publishing director for Word on Fire, dives deep into the paradoxes of Catholicism. He unpacks the 'both/and' nature of faith, exploring the balance between spirit and flesh. Becklo discusses the struggles of reconciling philosophy with the Catholic experience, emphasizing the importance of Christ's resurrection. He examines the need for harmony between reason and experience, and reflects on the thrilling challenges of maintaining orthodoxy in a changing world. A thought-provoking journey into the essence of faith awaits!
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Catholic Paradox: Ultimate Choice
The Catholic faith embraces paradoxes to reveal an ultimate either/or: we are either with Christ or against Him.
This unresolved tension drives the profound decision between death or life, unity or division.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Becklo's Faith Reversion Journey
Matthew Becklo rediscovered the Catholic faith after drifting away during his youth.
His reversion was influenced by Bishop Barron's teaching on the Catholic both/and and readings of Chesterton and Percy.
insights INSIGHT
Origin of Division: Sin's Role
Division and fragmentation in humanity originate from sin and the fallen state of the world.
Christ is the gathering force that reconciles and unites, while Satan scatters and divides.
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Matthew Becklo's 'The Way of Heaven and Earth' explores the concept of the Catholic 'both/and' as a means of resolving various dilemmas. It emphasizes that the Catholic faith embraces paradoxes and dynamic tensions, such as faith and reason, and spirit and flesh. The book navigates extremes, advocating for a balanced approach rooted in Christ. It offers insights into how these tensions are resolved through thorough formation, sacramental participation, and God's grace. Ultimately, it presents the Catholic faith as a path that integrates seemingly opposing forces in Christ.
Heretics
Heretics
None
G.K. Chesterton
G.K. Chesterton's "Heretics" is a collection of essays that explore various aspects of religious belief and social commentary. Chesterton's characteristic wit and insightful observations make this a stimulating and engaging read. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from the nature of orthodoxy to the dangers of modernism. Chesterton's defense of traditional values and his critique of contemporary society remain relevant today. The book is a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about faith, reason, and the challenges of modern life.
Lost in the Cosmos
The Last Self-Help Book
Walker Percy
Lost in the Cosmos is a unique blend of satire, philosophy, and self-help. The book mocks conventional self-help texts while engaging readers in thoughtful contemplation of their existential situations. It uses multiple-choice questions, essays, and 'thought experiments' to explore the complexities of human identity and the search for meaning in a society plagued by moral and social ills. Percy argues that human consciousness is uniquely triadic, involving interactions between the sign user, the sign, and what the sign stands for, leading to a profound sense of alienation and the quest for transcendence[1][3][4].
Orthodoxy
G.K. Chesterton
In 'Orthodoxy,' G.K. Chesterton presents a compelling defense of Christianity, arguing that it is the most rational and fulfilling worldview. The book is a personal and philosophical journey where Chesterton explains how he came to embrace traditional Christianity after exploring various heresies and philosophies. He compares Christianity with other worldviews, highlighting its unique ability to balance paradoxes and provide a coherent explanation of human nature and the world. Chesterton's writing is characterized by his wit, humor, and profound insights, making the book both intellectually stimulating and engagingly readable[1][2][4].
As Matthew Becklo asserts, “The Catholic faith is full of paradoxes, but its greatest paradox is this: that all of its both/ands unleash this ultimate either/or, and all of its communion compels this unavoidable decision.” Are we with Christ or against him? And how do we balance the dynamic tensions (faith or reason, discipline or passion, spirit or flesh) that risk pulling us too far in one direction or another? Join me and Matthew Becklo as we consider his new book, The Way of Heaven & Earth: From Either/Or to the Catholic Both/And, on the Evangelization & Culture Podcast.
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You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.
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