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I am contemplating the possible impact of the doctrine of the sacraments on a person of strong faith. I am not saying that it is absolutely necessary, but consider: according to Catholic doctrine, if taken in full seriousness, Christ is fully present in the consecrated Host, and the priest, whatever his defects as a man, functions as an Alter Christus in his sacramental role. The communion of saints means that if you pray to St. Anthony, he will help you find a lost object, and your guardian angel is always around. The important point is the way in which the cosmic order is a whole, from the lowliest to the highest, with no radical disjunction, and war can be a way to right the cosmic balance, not merely a means to redress grievances. Have you read Hopkins? This world is shot through with the glory of God, even in its fallen state.....And yes, atheists can be excellent poets, look at Wallace Stevens. But their poetry will have a different texture..... |
