By Monsignor J. Francis Mannion Special to the Intermountain Catholic
"Lumen Fidei" brings to completion the three-fold cycle of encyclicals begun by Pope Benedict XVI dedicated to faith, hope and charity. Taken together, they constitute an impressive, well-rounded, and comprehensive portrayal of Christian faith.
Pope Francis does not hesitate to recognize that "Lumen Fidei" is largely the work of Pope Benedict XVI. But he states that he has made Benedict’s work his own, while at the same time adding elements that arise from his own theological convictions.
"Lumen Fidei" begins with the recognition that the advancement of Christian faith has to contend with many obstacles, especially those of the rationalistic mindset that is characteristic of much modern thinking.
The light of faith, he contends, is not in opposition to the world of reason, but rather illuminates it. "We have come to see that faith does not dwell in shadow and gloom; it is a light for out darkness" (no. 4).
The encyclical sets out what might be described as a "history of faith." Beginning with Abraham, it goes on to describe the faith of the Law and the Prophets, and then it shows how this ancient faith was fulfilled in the fullness of Christian faith.
Faith is never a purely individualistic matter, but always has an ecclesial form. The Christian sees his or her own identity in the ecclesial mirror of faith. Faith grows from engagement with the sacraments, especially the sacrament of the Eucharist, and then with the Lord’s Prayer, and the Ten Commandments.
"Lumen Fidei," like the two papal letters that came before it, does not make easy reading. It is dense and challenging, and is best read over time as the reader tries to engage the text and make a personal application of it.
Msgr. Mannion is pastor emeritus of Saint Vincent de Paul Parish.
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