In the first three articles of this section, we explored Vatican II and its significance for the Church, the active role of the Word, and the dynamic nature of tradition. Now, in this fourth article, we delve into the theme of inspiration and interpretation of the Word of God. We also examine how Ekklesia, symbolizing the Church as a community of equals, influences this process. Ekklesia, or the Church, is compared to a ship, representing a shared journey undertaken by all its members.
Ekklesia & Dei Verbum:
Ekklesia reminds us of the Church’s close-knit community and its mission as a spiritual guide. In 1965, a ship named Ekklesia embarked on a journey, symbolizing unity, marked with the date – “DV 11-13,” representing Dei Verbum, the Council’s document on Divine Revelation. Dei Verbum paragraphs 11-13 explore how Sacred Scripture inspires and guides us. During the Council, there were tensions between those interpreting the Bible conservatively and those interpreting innovatively. Think of it like a lively debate! Spanish scholar Luis Alonso Schokel urged interpreting the Bible through creative lenses, stressing the need for spiritual insight. He showed how the Spirit’s wisdom transforms us, much like a great piece of art. Alonso illustrated the Spirit’s dynamic nature with stories from Genesis to Revelation. This message is relevant today: just as past disagreements led to growth, our current struggles can inspire spiritual depth and understanding. The Spirit encourages us to face challenges, growing in faith and wisdom along the way.
Sr Shalini Xavier CTC
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