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Schism, Heretical Bishops, and Pope Benedict XVI (Dr. Richard DeClue) | Ep. 512

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Mar 1, 2025

Guest

Dr. Richard DeClue

Dr. Richard DeClue, Professor of Theology at the Word on Fire Institute, shares insights into the complexities of Catholic theology, focusing on the thought of Pope Benedict XVI. He delves into the relationship between the Eucharist and ecclesial unity, discussing how it can heal divisions within the Church. The fascinating contrast between the leadership styles of John Paul II and Benedict XVI reveals challenges faced since Vatican II. Plus, Dr. DeClue explores the contentious topic of Limbo and its implications for unbaptized infants, sparking deep theological debate.

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ANECDOTE

Benedict XVI in D.C.

Richard DeClue saw Pope Benedict XVI in person once.
Benedict walked right in front of DeClue at Catholic University in D.C.

insights

INSIGHT

Benedict's Writing Style

Pope Benedict XVI writes simply, but brilliantly and profoundly.
He combines intellectual depth with an affective style that resonates with both the mind and heart.

insights

INSIGHT

Benedict's Theology of Showing

Benedict XVI's theology isn't about proving, but showing.
He elucidates the tradition, painting a mosaic of truth that resonates deeply.

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Admiring Craftsmanship and Reflecting on Pope Benedict XVI

01:25 • 3min

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The Art of Theological Communication

04:02 • 6min

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Post-Vatican II Reflections

09:43 • 24min

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The Eucharist and Ecclesial Unity

34:02 • 17min

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Exploring Limbo: Theological Insights and Controversies

50:37 • 2min

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Faith, Future, and Continuity in the Church

52:10 • 26min

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Exploring Essential Theological Works and Upcoming Conferences

01:18:30 • 4min

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Principles of Catholic Theology

Building Stones for a Fundamental Theology

Cardinal Ratzinger

Born fundamentalist, born again Catholic

David B. Currie

In 'Born Fundamentalist, Born Again Catholic', David Currie shares his compelling journey from a fundamentalist Protestant upbringing to embracing Catholicism. The book provides a systematic explanation of his conversion, highlighting commonalities and differences between Catholic and evangelical beliefs, particularly focusing on the Eucharist, the Pope, and Mary. Currie's narrative offers insights into his theological and doctrinal shifts.

The Mind of Benedict XVI

A Theology of Communion

Richard G. DeClue, Jr.

This book provides an overview of Pope Benedict XVI's biography and theological method, highlighting the unity within his writings. It explores his principles regarding the Trinity, revelation, creation, Christology, liturgy, and more, offering a cohesive understanding of his theology of communion. The book also contextualizes his decision to resign from the papacy and challenges public misconceptions about his character.

Faith and future

Walter Kasper

A refutation of moral relativism

interviews with an absolutist

Peter Kreeft

In this engaging book, Peter Kreeft presents a dialogue between a moral absolutist and a relativist, exploring the major arguments for and against moral relativism. Kreeft argues that moral relativism is detrimental to civilization and that no successful society has repudiated moral absolutes. The book is structured as a series of interviews, making complex philosophical concepts accessible and engaging.

Rome Sweet Home

Our Journey to Catholicism

Kimberly Hahn

Scott Hahn

This book chronicles the conversion of Scott and Kimberly Hahn from devout Protestants to Catholicism. Scott, a former Presbyterian minister and top student in his seminary class, and Kimberly, a theology student and daughter of a Protestant minister, share their experiences of spiritual struggle and theological discovery. The book highlights their journey, including Scott's conversion in 1986 and Kimberly's in 1990, and discusses key theological themes such as covenant theology and the importance of family. It is written with simplicity, charity, and wit, reflecting their deep love and knowledge of Christ and Scripture.

Jesus of Nazareth

John Mark

This biography presents a vivid retelling of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, focusing on his baptism, early ministry, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. It emphasizes Jesus’ compassion and authority, exploring central themes such as love, faith, and sacrifice. The work chronicles major events in Jesus' life, including his interactions with disciples, healings, parables, and conflicts with religious authorities, culminating in the dramatic events surrounding the crucifixion and the resurrection.

The Fruit of Her Womb

33-Day Preparation for Total Consecration to Jesus Through Mary

Fr. Boniface Hicks O.S.B.

This book follows St. Louis de Montfort’s 33-day plan for Marian consecration, adapted by Fr. Boniface Hicks into a personal guided retreat. It includes daily meditations with Scripture passages, quotes from popes and saints, and traditional prayers. The book is divided into four weeks: the first 12 days focus on emptying oneself of the spirit of the world, followed by weeks on self-knowledge, knowledge of Mary, and knowledge of Jesus. The book aims to deepen the reader’s trust in and childlike dependence on God through Mary, promising spiritual renewal and a closer relationship with Jesus.

Milestones

Sayyid Quṭb

Published in 1964, 'Milestones' (Ma'alim fi'l-tareeq) is one of the most influential works of Sayyid Qutb. Written during his imprisonment, the book is a call for the violent overthrow of governments perceived as non-Islamic to establish an Islamic state. It critiques modern society as being in a state of 'jahiliyyah' (pre-Islamic ignorance) and advocates for the implementation of Sharia law in all aspects of life. The book has been both praised as a groundbreaking work and criticized for its radical and anti-secular views.

Communion

Whitley Strieber

In 'Communion', Whitley Strieber recounts his 1985 close encounter experiences at a secluded cabin in upstate New York. The book is divided into segments where Strieber describes the events that led him to believe he was being taken by 'visitors', his attempts to understand these experiences through hypnotherapy and medical evaluations, and the gathering of witness accounts from other self-proclaimed abductees. The book remains timely, exploring the idea that something unknown is happening to people, which has not been fully studied or understood. Strieber's account is both riveting and thought-provoking, making it a significant work in the realm of UFO and alien abduction literature.

Introduction to Christianity

Joseph Ratzinger

Joseph Ratzinger's "Introduction to Christianity" offers a comprehensive overview of the core tenets of the Christian faith. The book delves into fundamental theological concepts, exploring the nature of God, the person of Jesus Christ, and the significance of the sacraments. Ratzinger's clear and insightful prose makes complex theological ideas accessible to a wide audience. The book is a valuable resource for both those new to Christianity and those seeking a deeper understanding of their faith. It serves as a foundational text for theological study and reflection.

Richard G. DeClue, Jr., S.Th.D. is the Professor of Theology at the Word on Fire Institute. In addition to his undergraduate degree in theology (Belmont Abbey College), he earned three ecclesiastical degrees in theology at the Catholic University of America. He specializes in systematic theology with a particular interest and expertise in the thought of Joseph Ratzinger / Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. His STL thesis treated Ratzinger’s Eucharistic ecclesiology in comparison to the Eastern Orthodox theologian John Zizioulas. His doctoral dissertation expounded and evaluated Ratzinger’s theology of divine revelation. Dr. DeClue has published articles in peer-reviewed journals on Ratzinger’s theology, and he taught a college course on the thought of Pope Benedict XVI. He is also interested in the ecclesiology of Henri de Lubac, the debate over nature and grace, and developing a rapprochement between Communio (ressourcement) theology and Thomism.

The Mind of Benedict XVI by Dr. Richard DeClue: https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/the-mind-of-benedict-xvi

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