Interior Integration for Catholics 175 IFS, Parts Work, Vatican II, and Your Conscience
Oct 6, 2025
Dr. Gerry Crete, a licensed marriage and family therapist, explores the intersection of Vatican II and inner psychological integration. He discusses the concept of conscience as a central, innate guide amidst life's fragmentation caused by sin. The conversation delves into how parts work can foster harmony within, likening it to a jazz band improvising for unity. Gerry shares insights on St. Maximilian Kolbe's profound embodiment of inner unity in the face of adversity and affirms the compatibility of psychology with Catholic teachings, emphasizing the importance of self-mastery and charity toward one's inner conflicts.
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Sin Explains Inner Fragmentation
- Gaudium et Spes explicitly describes the human interior as "split within himself" because of sin, linking fragmentation to the Fall.
- This theological framing aligns with parts-and-systems models that view inner division as a result of sin and burdens, not merely natural multiplicity.
Distinction Vs. Division
- Distinct inner parts are natural and valuable, but the problem is when they become divided and lose relational unity.
- Integration aims to restore right relationship among parts, not to erase healthy distinctions.
Conscience As Innermost Sanctuary
- Gaudium et Spes paragraph 16 locates conscience as "man's most secret core" where God's voice echoes inwardly.
- The document treats conscience as an innate, interior law calling us to love and to do good.
