Join Tod and Dr. Jason Paone as they discuss the need for a 'New Ressourcement' in the Catholic intellectual tradition post-World War II. They explore the Ressourcement movement, the influence of C.S. Lewis on Paone's faith journey, and the importance of balancing tradition with present and future needs in Catholic theology. The podcast highlights key figures in the Ressourcement movement, the significance of physical print journals, and the importance of returning to the sources of Catholicism for spiritual enrichment.
The New Ressourcement movement emphasized the importance of returning to the sources of Catholic faith, including Scriptures and Church Fathers for intellectual renewal.
Encountering C.S. Lewis's work transformed the speaker's perception of Christian Catholic history, tradition, and arguments, enriching their faith journey.
The transition towards embracing Catholicism highlighted the significance of integrating intellectual scholarship with spiritual development for a deeper understanding of the faith.
Deep dives
The New Resource Movement in Catholic Thought
The 20th-century resource movemed in European theologians and philosophers sought to renew Catholic intellectual life by focusing on Scriptures, ancient/medieval Church fathers. Word on Fire's academic journal aims to inspire a new movement in Catholic thought, revitalizing the Catholic Academy and culture.
The Impact of C.S. Lewis's 'Mere Christianity'
Encountering C.S. Lewis's book transformed the speaker's life by revealing the richness of Christian Catholic history, tradition, and arguments. The depth and tradition found in Lewis's work contrasted with the speaker's secluded upbringing, enhancing their understanding of the Christian faith and leading to further intellectual and spiritual development.
Transition to Catholicism and Intellectual Growth
The speaker's faith journey experienced significant growth through engagement with philosophical and theological studies. Immersion in readings, mentors, and academic institutions led to a deepened understanding of faith, ultimately guiding the speaker towards embracing Catholicism. The transition highlighted the importance of integrating intellectual scholarship with spiritual development.
Rediscovering the Sources of Catholic Theology
Rediscovering the sources of Catholic theology was described as revitalizing by returning to the writings of St. Augustine, St. Bonaventure, and other figures. The shift from a more academic and intellectual theology to a lively and vibrant exploration of ancient texts led to a rejection of the notion that modern Thomism encapsulated all the essential teachings, prompting a return to the patristic and medieval sources for a more enriching understanding.
Reviving Faith Through Literature and Tradition
The New Resourcement movement emphasized the importance of making Catholic doctrine intelligible and appealing through literary sensibilities. A critique was presented towards the mechanical and encyclopedic approach in theology common with modern scholasticism, advocating for a more engaging and reflective style of writing. Emphasizing the necessity of beauty and relatability in conveying Catholic teachings, the podcast discussed the need to engage with tradition while adapting to modern contexts to reform and renew the faith.
In the ruinous aftermath of the Second World War, the Catholic intellectual tradition found itself at a crossroads. Had the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas, an anchoring point for over half a century, sufficed in responding to the ideological inferno that was World War II? Or was there a need for a Ressourcement—a “return to the sources” of our Catholic faith, including the Church Fathers?
Join Tod and Dr. Jason Paone as they delve into the intellectual history of the Ressourcement movement and why Word on Fire believes it is necessary for a New Ressourcement today.
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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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