Most often, things that happen during my week inspire my articles. This week is no exception. As I write, I am lamenting the fact that there are so many people that have no idea of how we, as Catholics, read and interpret scripture. It seems to be one of those things that many people are happy to turn over to clergy and religious sisters. Often, it is an attitude of leaving it to “official church people,” and just having “them” tell us what we need to know. Here’s the problem. When we don’t know the foundational principles behind how we read the bible, we are open to confusion, and misinformation that impacts our understanding of God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit), our world, and more. As I think about this fact, I am pondering what I’d include in a class for parents who are just starting their families. What are the parts of Catholic Christianity that we all should know?
- First, take time to get comfortable with the fact that The Holy Bible is a book that is, actually, a collection of other “books” that vary widely in their content. I’ve heard scholars refer to it as a “library” of other books, which I think is a great analogy! There are true historical events, like those found in the gospels, but there are also folktales, epic tales, and other literary styles reflected in the writings of Old Testament authors, as well the New. For example: Poetry in the Psalms; Fables in Judges 9:7-15 and Num. 22:26-36; Folklore in the stories of Noah, Abraham, and Moses; the short story of Ruth, and more! As I have said before, read the introductions to learn more about the background of any particular book.
- Read the gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The book of Acts is important too! There, you’ll learn about Jesus. Our entire faith is based on our faith in Jesus, and the gospels are, essentially, biographies of Jesus life, death and resurrection.
- Learn the parts of the Mass. If you are comfortable with the Mass, you will be able to fully participate, and know what’s going on. To help you, both the Diocese of Wichita and Arlington have videos entitled “The Mass Explained.” There are other options as well.
- Take time to learn about, and get comfortable with, the seven sacraments, especially the Eucharist. There are plenty of good Catholic sources on the topic. Check out the videos at bustedhalo.com or through “Aquinas 101” from the Thomistic Institute. If you are comfortable with the sacraments, odds are, you won’t end up feeling like a “fish out of water” at any Catholic event.
- Something on prayer, especially the rosary, would be good to learn. Getting familiar with different prayer forms helps to avoid the fish out of water feeling, AND helps us to experience different ways of communicating with God, hopefully finding ways that are fruitful for us.
- Finally, grow comfortable with the idea that faith growth is a lifelong process. Even with degrees in theology and Catholic ministry, I am still learning new things every day! I urge you, dive in and enjoy the water. The well is deep and wide.