Christians draw their faith from the Word of God, which includes both Scripture and Tradition. Tradition, as explained in Dei Verbum 7-10, is not just a thing of the past—it is alive and dynamic. Volume three of the council notebooks emphasizes this understanding of tradition as a living participation. This means that it is continuously active and guided by the Holy Spirit, ensuring that the essence of Jesus Christ’s message is kept vibrant and relevant for each generation. Tradition isn’t just about remembering; it is about actively participating in the ongoing memory of Jesus, particularly His love and compassion for the marginalized and vulnerable. It is like a living stream that carries forth the teachings and actions of Jesus, keeping them fresh and impactful for all believers, especially those in need. Dei Verbum gives emphasis to this dynamic nature of tradition.
Tradition of the Living Truth
In the second chapter of volume 3 of the council notebooks titled “Transmitting the Truth in a Living Way,” we delve into the writings of early Church figures such as Saint Irenaeus and St. Basil. Irenaeus emphasizes the continuity of Gospel preaching and faith from the Apostles to their successors, which he calls the ‘Tradition of Truth.’ This highlights the ongoing connection between the Church’s teachings and the living memory of Jesus found in the Gospels. Importantly, Irenaeus also stresses that this transmission is not just about words but also about action—it involves actively participating in the love for the poor and downtrodden. He famously said, “The glory of God is man/woman fully alive,” underlining the vibrant relationship between the Holy Scriptures and the Apostolic tradition. This dynamic understanding of tradition underscores its authentic link between Christ and His Church.
Sr Shalini Xavier CTC
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