Thomas Aquinas and the Theology of the Body | Fr. Thomas Petri, O.P.
Jan 2, 2021
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Fr. Thomas Petri, O.P. discusses the theology of the body, contrasting Thomistic principles with modern views on duty. He explores the evolution of Christian morality towards self-gift in marriage and the church's stance on contraception. Delving into St. Thomas's views, he emphasizes the drive for perfection in love and the inseparable union of souls in matrimony.
The Theology of the Body is rooted in St. John Paul II's catechesis sessions, bridging Aquinas' principles with modern moral theology.
The shift from virtue-focused moral theology to casuistry influenced by historical events resulted in a case-based approach.
Evolution in understanding natural law emphasizes the role of scientific progress in defining human actions.
Deep dives
Origins of Theology of the Body and Pope John Paul II's Catechesis
The Theology of the Body stems from Pope St. John Paul II's Wednesday catechesis sessions held between 1979 and 1984. These sessions were structured from lectures that were intended for a book publication by the Pope. The theology of the body consists of around 130 catechesis sessions and highlights the relationship between St. Thomas Aquinas' philosophical and theological principles, influencing John Paul II's works.
Evolution of Moral Theology: From Virtue to Casuistry
Moral theology transitioned from a focus on virtue and holiness to casuistry due to historical upheavals in the 14th century. This shift emphasized strict obedience to divine law, leading to a case-based approach to moral theology known as casuistry. The emphasis on God's will and conscience in moral decision-making stemmed from this period when duty and obligation overshadowed virtue and grace.
Challenges to Traditional Moral Theology Post-14th Century
In the subsequent centuries, the understanding of natural law in moral theology evolved. The emphasis shifted towards interpreting biological processes as revelatory of natural law, leading to an increased reliance on scientific progress to redefine the natural telos of human actions. This shift raised questions about the role of human reason versus biological impulses in determining morality.
Controversy Surrounding Contraception in the 20th Century
The 20th century witnessed significant debate within the Catholic Church regarding contraception, particularly the introduction of the birth control pill. The Vatican established a papal commission in 1963 to study the pill's moral implications. The majority on the commission recommended a change in the Church's stance on contraception, while a minority upheld the ban on contraception, citing the church's tradition of condemning contraception.
Integration of St. Thomas Aquinas' Principles in Theology of the Body
St. Thomas Aquinas' principles play a crucial role in supporting the Theology of the Body's foundational concepts. These principles include the appetite for perfection, strict hylomorphism, rational love, the equality of men and women in marriage, and the formal element of marriage as the union of souls. While not explicitly addressed by Aquinas, the theology of the body draws upon these foundational principles to offer insights into human nature, morality, and marital relationships.
This lecture was given at Hillsdale College on October 22, 2020.
For more events and info, visit thomisticinstitute.org/events-1.
Speaker Bio:
Father Thomas Petri, O.P. is the Vice President and Dean of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies, where he also serves as an assistant professor of moral theology and pastoral studies. Ordained a priest in 2009, he holds a Doctorate in Sacred Theology from The Catholic University of America.
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