L’Osservatore Romano is a publication that reports weekly on the Holy See. While usually associated with a serious image focused on catechism and Vatican activities, its writers have taken a more modern approach. Headlines worldwide have reported on the ‘shocking’ article that recommends artists like The Beatles and Michael Jackson.
As an American Catholic, it is refreshing to see that the Church recognizes the value of human creativity in the current age, and I could not agree more with the explanation of why Bob Dylan was excluded (having endured his performance in person and being that I have suffered years of his music in dating a loyal Bob Dylan fan). While some Catholics may not agree with the more open-minded tone of L’Osservatore Romano as of late, top-notch Catholic news seem to embrace the list.
Religion is an interesting phenomenon. Man-made? Yes. From a divine source? Possibly. I think the most important facet of duly following a religion is being able to openly critique it, struggle with moments of doubt, and still ultimately believe. Sure, I am influenced by my upbringing, and part of my belief may be founded in those embedded values. However, many object to doctrine or outdated traditions, and the Church’s history of hypocrisy and violence. Others cite the exposed sex scandals of its clergy and cry for the Church’s overall demolition.
Humans are fallible and err, but the underlying intentions of the Church remain pure. Despite the turmoil and wreckage, the splintering into various off-branches (Protestantism), and less than flattering press, the Church has endured and remains whole, welcoming, and inclusive. Recently, I was privy to a conversation with two close friends, an atheist and Christian from another denomination. Both debated back and forth while I remained silent. I have had my fill of theological debate and abuse as a Philosophy major during my undergraduate studies and simply wanted to listen. They concluded their discussion with the same concession and admiration that I hold for the Church – no matter where you are in the world, there is acceptance, a sense of belonging in being Catholic, and its familial atmosphere is perhaps one of its strongest attributes. To me, Catholicism represents home. Community. Love. Faith.
When I suffer my dark nights of the soul, I still know that when I find my way back, it will always be home and in front of an altar. The Church does not represent a sepulcher of God, as Nietzsche once proclaimed. We have not killed God, although we ignorantly believe our understanding of a higher power implies a creation of one. Recognition is not the same as Creation. A struggle to understand that which is beyond our comprehension is only human nature. Though it can be argued that arrogance is not sinful, there are not many who can posit that it is an affable trait to covet and encourage.
The Lenten season is not about giving up that which we enjoy to honor pointless rituals. It is not forced upon anyone. The idea of fasting and sacrifice is common to most religions, even those spiritual veins which practice without for the purification of oneself. It has healthy side effects that are physically, socially, and psychologically beneficial. I have given up chocolate, which entails many desserts and empty calories. I am dedicating conscious effort into performing good deeds, which certainly has a ripple effect on my interactions and relationships with others. Since most deeds are done with a self-serving purpose, the euphoria and esteem felt at helping others will only bolster my confidence and overall mood. Eating healthier, creating an atmosphere of social harmony, and feeling positive about myself are bound to have positive influences on the way I experience the world. Maybe I’ll listen to some recommended songs by the Vatican throughout this season as well, and change my perspective on the everyday, the mundane with renewed appreciation.
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