Tuesday, December 20, 2005
OT 14: More on Seminary Renewal
Optatam Totius 14 begins with a pragmatic thought:
In revising ecclesiastical studies the aim should first of all be that the philosophical and theological disciplines be more suitably aligned and that they harmoniously work toward opening more and more the minds of the students to the mystery of Christ.
What a concept: education is about opening the mindrather than filling it.
For it is this mystery which affects the whole history of the human race, continually influences the Church, and is especially at work in the priestly ministry. That this vision be communicated to the students from the outset of their training, ecclesiastical studies are to be begun with an introductory course which should last for an appropriate length of time. In this initiation to ecclesiastical studies the mystery of salvation should be so proposed that the students perceive the meaning, order, and pastoral end of their studies. At the same time they should be helped to establish and penetrate their own entire lives with faith and be strengthened in embracing their vocation with a personal dedication and a joyful heart.
Integration of the mind and soul, another fine concept.
