Resumes Series of Teachings on Apostolic Fathers
VATICAN CITY, MAY 30, 2007 (ZENIT.org).- Citing the teachings of Tertullian on nonviolence as a law of life, Benedict XVI says that the ancient writer's works have great relevance today amid fervent debate on religions.
The Pope reflected on Tertullian's thought at today's general audience in St. Peter's Square, resuming his series of catecheses on the Apostolic Fathers.
"His work bore decisive fruits, and it would be unforgivable to undervalue them," the Holy Father said. "His influence is developed on many levels: linguistically and in the recovery of the classic culture, and the singling out of a common 'Christian soul' in the world and the formulation of new proposals for living together.
"He explains and defends the teachings and customs of Christians […] he shows the triumph of the Spirit, who pits the violence of persecutors against the blood, suffering and patience of the martyrs.
"Martyrdom and suffering for the truth are victorious in the end and more effective than the cruelty and violence of totalitarian regimes."
The Pope quoted from Tertullian: "The Christian cannot hate, not even his own enemies," and then noted "the moral implication of the choice of faith," that "proposes 'nonviolence' as the law of life."
"And who could not see the relevance of this teaching today in light of the fervent debate on religions," added the Pontiff.
Trinitarian dogma
Benedict XVI added that Tertullian's teachings are key for many themes: "His writings are important because they reflect the living tendencies of the Christian community about Mary most holy, the Eucharist, matrimony and reconciliation, the primacy of Peter, prayer …"
The Holy Father explained that Tertullian, who wrote in Latin, coined the terms necessary to express the mystery of the Trinity, introducing the terms for "one substance" and "three Persons."
"In a similar way," the Pope said "he also greatly developed the correct language to express the mystery of Christ, Son of God and true Man.
"The African also speaks about the Holy Spirit, showing his personal and divine character."
Benedict XVI concluded, saying there are many themes in Tertullian's writings that "we are called to face still today. They call us to a fruitful interior examination, to which I exhort all the faithful, so that they may know how to express, in an evermore convincing way, the 'Rule of Faith,' which -- getting back to Tertullian -- 'prescribes the belief that there is one only God, and that he is none other than the Creator of the world, who produced all things out of nothing through his own Word, first of all sent forth.'"
Code: ZE07053004
Date: 2007-05-30