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The Thomistic Institute

Why We Need Grace | Thomas Joseph White, O.P.

Nov 18, 2024
Fr. Thomas Joseph White, Rector Magnificus of the Pontifical University of St. Thomas in Rome, delves into the transformative power of grace in our lives. He discusses how grace heals our wounded nature and fosters a deeper relationship with God. Exploring the balance between sin and grace, he warns against presumption in confession and highlights the psychological complexities involved. Fr. White emphasizes the importance of a sacramental life in spiritual growth, illustrating that the journey is non-linear and requires continuous divine support.
48:33

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Quick takeaways

  • Grace is essential for true healing and moral elevation, enabling individuals to overcome the limitations imposed by original sin.
  • Aquinas emphasizes that understanding spiritual truths about God requires grace, as the intellect alone cannot grasp divine realities without divine support.

Deep dives

The Nature of Grace

Grace is defined as the divine life shared with humanity by God, allowing individuals to partake in God's nature. Aquinas explains that grace is both the healing of human nature and the elevation to a higher state, enabling a true relationship with God. He emphasizes that grace is given by God to facilitate faith, hope, and love, likening it to an inward force prompting gratitude and friendship with God. This transformation is essential for understanding the fullness of human potential in relation to the divine.

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