missions, theology and liturgy

Missions, Theology and Liturgy

East and West

The Germanization of Western Europe: “Franks”

Merovingian FranksMerovingian Franks Clovis (466-511), a Frank, married a Clovis (466-511), a Frank, married a

Burgundian princess who insisted he Burgundian princess who insisted he become Catholic.become Catholic.

After winning a battle, he converted in 496 and After winning a battle, he converted in 496 and supported missionaries. He also forced supported missionaries. He also forced conversions among the Franks and those he conversions among the Franks and those he conquered.conquered.

Germanic Gaul became Christian and began the Germanic Gaul became Christian and began the fusion of Germanic and Roman culture.fusion of Germanic and Roman culture.

Clovis is the first “French” King.Clovis is the first “French” King.

St. Patrick (385-461), Apostle St. Patrick (385-461), Apostle to the Irishto the Irish

Patrick was a Patrick was a missionary among the missionary among the Irish Celts.Irish Celts.

Native Welsh (Maewyn), Native Welsh (Maewyn), former slave, 12 years former slave, 12 years in Gaul.in Gaul.

Monasticism was a dominant feature of Irish Christianity since Monasticism was a dominant feature of Irish Christianity since the population was almost entirely rural. They preserved the population was almost entirely rural. They preserved classical learning in the western world and promoted education classical learning in the western world and promoted education (e.g., influencing even England at York where schools flourished)(e.g., influencing even England at York where schools flourished)

Irish monks evangelized Scotland, Burgundy, Switzerland and Irish monks evangelized Scotland, Burgundy, Switzerland and northern Italy.northern Italy.

Conversion of EnglandConversion of England After the fall of Rome, England was overrun by After the fall of Rome, England was overrun by

pagan Saxons, Angles and Jutes between 450-pagan Saxons, Angles and Jutes between 450-500.500.

Irish monks evangelized in England (primarily Irish monks evangelized in England (primarily northern), but also Augustine of Rome was sent northern), but also Augustine of Rome was sent by Pope Gregory I in 597. He converted Ethelbert by Pope Gregory I in 597. He converted Ethelbert (560-616; a Jute), King of Kent, in 601 and (560-616; a Jute), King of Kent, in 601 and established the bishopric of Canterbury (later established the bishopric of Canterbury (later center of the English church).center of the English church).

Celtic and Augustinian (Roman) Christianity had Celtic and Augustinian (Roman) Christianity had their differences and this created tension.their differences and this created tension.

Resolution to Side with Resolution to Side with RomeRome

Celtic Church older with own traditionsCeltic Church older with own traditions– Existed in Scotland, Northern England and Existed in Scotland, Northern England and

IrelandIreland– Emphasized monasticism and learningEmphasized monasticism and learning

Roman and Celtic missionaries “compete” Roman and Celtic missionaries “compete” for English Northumberland.for English Northumberland.– King Oswy of Northumberland called synod– Synod of Whitby (664)– Oswy decided for Roman based on the “Petrine

Thesis” (Roman primacy).

Boniface, Apostle of Boniface, Apostle of GermanyGermany

Boniface (675-754), Boniface (675-754), Anglo-Saxon from Anglo-Saxon from southern England, southern England, pioneered missionary pioneered missionary work among the work among the Saxons of Hesse.Saxons of Hesse.

He was ultimately He was ultimately appointed Archbishop appointed Archbishop of Mainz.of Mainz.

He was martyred while He was martyred while preaching among the preaching among the pagans in Frisia.pagans in Frisia.

Empire of Charlemagne

Carolingian FranksCarolingian Franks Pope Zacharias (741-752) approved the plan of Pepin the Pope Zacharias (741-752) approved the plan of Pepin the

Short to seize the throne for himself after the last Short to seize the throne for himself after the last Merovingian died.Merovingian died.

Pope Stephen II (752-757) appealed to Pepin for help Pope Stephen II (752-757) appealed to Pepin for help against the Germanic Lombards and the Byzantine Empire.against the Germanic Lombards and the Byzantine Empire.

Pepin conquered Italy and received the title of “father-Pepin conquered Italy and received the title of “father-protector of the Romans”. He gave the Papacy the lands protector of the Romans”. He gave the Papacy the lands the Pope claimed in Italy (“the Papal States”), which was the Pope claimed in Italy (“the Papal States”), which was called the “Donation of Pepin.”called the “Donation of Pepin.”

The document entitled “Donation of Constantine” appeared The document entitled “Donation of Constantine” appeared which gave the Pope of Rome jurisdiction over the whole of which gave the Pope of Rome jurisdiction over the whole of the western church unhindered by the emperor.the western church unhindered by the emperor.

The Papal States

Charles the Great (768-814)Charles the Great (768-814)

Creates an empireCreates an empire– 53 military campaigns53 military campaigns– Crowned emperor 800Crowned emperor 800

Rules wellRules well– Appoints own household staffAppoints own household staff– Primitive law: ordealsPrimitive law: ordeals– Creates feudal armyCreates feudal army– BuilderBuilder– Weights and MeasuresWeights and Measures

Generous to church, but master of churchGenerous to church, but master of church

Charlemagne (742-814)Charlemagne (742-814)

Pacified the Saxons in Germany, extended Pacified the Saxons in Germany, extended the border to the Danube in eastern the border to the Danube in eastern Europe, pacified the Lombards in Italy and Europe, pacified the Lombards in Italy and crossed the Pyrennes into Spain.crossed the Pyrennes into Spain.

When Pope Leo III (795-816) was forced When Pope Leo III (795-816) was forced out of Rome by local nobles, Charlemagne out of Rome by local nobles, Charlemagne arranged his return. In Rome, December arranged his return. In Rome, December 25, 800 A.D., Charlemagne was crowned 25, 800 A.D., Charlemagne was crowned emperor of the “Holy Roman Empire.”emperor of the “Holy Roman Empire.”

Charlemagne receiving gifts

Empire of Charlemagne

Carolingian RenaissanceCarolingian Renaissance

600 years before the Italian Renaissance, it successfully 600 years before the Italian Renaissance, it successfully merged Germanic and Greco-Roman cultures into merged Germanic and Greco-Roman cultures into “Christian Europe.”“Christian Europe.”

Alcuin of York (740-804), one of Charlemagne’s scholars at Alcuin of York (740-804), one of Charlemagne’s scholars at Aachen (near Cologne), taught at a palace school. The net Aachen (near Cologne), taught at a palace school. The net effect was higher educational and moral standards for effect was higher educational and moral standards for clergy. Education was popularized in France.clergy. Education was popularized in France.

Alcuin established the basic liberal arts educational Alcuin established the basic liberal arts educational philosophy:philosophy:

– Elementary disciplines: grammar, rhetoric, dialectic (logic)Elementary disciplines: grammar, rhetoric, dialectic (logic)– Advanced disciplines: arithmetic, geometry, music, astronomyAdvanced disciplines: arithmetic, geometry, music, astronomy– Highest discipline: theologyHighest discipline: theology

Alcuin of YorkAppointed head of Charlemagne’s Palace School

Aix-la-Chapelle (780-790)

Carolingian kings of France not Carolingian kings of France not competent after divisioncompetent after division

Invasion of VikingsInvasion of Vikings– Carolingian kings unable to protect peopleCarolingian kings unable to protect people– Paris withstood the onslaught (888)Paris withstood the onslaught (888)

Normans invade and settle in northNormans invade and settle in north– Rollo first Duke of Normandy 933Rollo first Duke of Normandy 933– Normandy strongest area in FranceNormandy strongest area in France

Lords ask Hugh Capet to be king 987Lords ask Hugh Capet to be king 987– Son of Eudes’ brother RobertSon of Eudes’ brother Robert– Beginning of Capetian DynastyBeginning of Capetian Dynasty

Two Kingdoms EmergeTwo Kingdoms Emerge

Frankish (French) Kingdom: Frankish (French) Kingdom:

Hugh Capet (987-996). Hugh Capet (987-996).

German and Saxon Kingdom: German and Saxon Kingdom:

Otto the Great (936-973). Otto Otto the Great (936-973). Otto continued the legacy of the “Holy continued the legacy of the “Holy Roman Empire” as he sought to Roman Empire” as he sought to control Italy as part of his territory.control Italy as part of his territory.

Otto I, 936-973Otto I, 936-973

Makes Germany greatMakes Germany great– Establishes authorityEstablishes authority– Dreams of re-creating Roman Dreams of re-creating Roman

EmpireEmpire– Builds up alliancesBuilds up alliances– Uses middle class as civil serviceUses middle class as civil service– Puts down revolt of noblesPuts down revolt of nobles

Defeats Magyars at Lech 955Defeats Magyars at Lech 955

Germany Becomes EmpireGermany Becomes Empire

962 Otto crowned emperor962 Otto crowned emperor– Son married to Byzantine princessSon married to Byzantine princess

Church is weakChurch is weak– Otto deposes 2 popes, elects 2Otto deposes 2 popes, elects 2– Otto meddles in Italian affairsOtto meddles in Italian affairs

Otto re-creates Carolingian Otto re-creates Carolingian EmpireEmpire

Papacy and Frankish EmpirePapacy and Frankish Empire

Frankish/German Emperors control the Papacy

Popes tortured, killed, desecrated 48 popes, 880-1046 Most were immoral, incompetent Deliberate strategy of German

emperors

Diminished Empire after Justinian

1. Germanic Lombards invade and conquer Italy

2. Visigoths retake previously lost parts of Spain.

3. Slavs (primarily Bulgars) take Balkan provinces except Thrace

4. Arabs take Africa and the east (including Jerusalem) except for Asia Minor

Map of Post-Justinian Empire, ca. 700Map of Post-Justinian Empire, ca. 700

Significance of Byzantium

Strengths:– Geography encourages trade– Impregnable city of Constantinople– Strong imperial personalities, autocracy– Hellenistic culture and religiously united (except

for some Christian “heresies”—the monophysites)

Weaknesses:– Problems with Succession (2/3 killed)– Isolated, Separatistic– Cultivated luxurious, pleasure-seeking culture

Significance of Byzantium

Language and Literature– Preserved Greek, including Bible MSS.– Half of literature was theological– Based education on Greek classics– Preserved Greek culture while the West was

overrun with “Barbarian” cultures Influence on Slavic Culture

– the West was overrun with “Barbarian” cultures – Gave them religion, alphabet, art, architecture– Christian Slavic nations looked to Byzantium for

leadership

Byzantium and the West

Had territories in Italy till 1100.

Substantial commerce between Constantinople, Venice and other Italian cities.

Preserved Roman law and Greek culture for the West to rediscover

Slavic Missions: Cyril & Methodius

Invited by the Prince Ratislav to Moravia in 862

The brothers led Moravia into Christianity, and their disciples evangelized the Bulgars and other Slavs.

Moravia ultimately came under Roman Catholic control but the influence of the brothers continued among the other Slavs.

Cyril and Methodius

They created a written language for Slavonic—provided Slav churches with alphabet, translations of creeds, liturgies and texts (“Old Church Slavonic”).

Unlike the West where Latin was the only liturgical language, the East had from the beginning used the language of the people for liturgy.

The Cyrillic alphabet, developed in the 10th century, was based on their old alphabet and language.

The Primary ChronicleVladimir again called together his vassals and the elders. The Prince announced the return of the envoys who had been sent out, and suggested that their report be heard. He commanded them to speak out before his vassals. The envoys reported: "When we traveled among the Bulgars, we saw how they worship in their temple, called a mosque, while they lounge about slackly. Bulgarians bow, sit down, and look here and there as if possessed. There is no happiness among them, but instead only sadness and bad smells. Their religion is not good. Next we went among the Germans. We saw them performing many ceremonies in their temples, but we saw no glory there. Then we went on to Greece. The Greeks led us to the edifices where they worship their God, and we did not know whether we were in heaven or on earth. On earth there is no such splendor or such beauty, and we are at a loss how to describe it. We know only that God lives there among men, and that the Greek service is fairer than the ceremonies of other nations. We cannot forget that beauty. Once he has tasted sweetness, no man is willing to settle for bitterness.

Conversion of Rus

Vladimir, the prince of Rus, invited Byzantine teachers to Kiev in 988.

All Russians were commanded to be baptized in order to stay in favor with the Prince.

Vladimir married the sister of the Byzantine Emperor in 989.

Russian History

Russian Christianity was centered in Kiev from 988 to 1240 when Mongols burned Kiev to the ground.

The center of Russian Christianity moved to Moscow in the 14th century when in the 1380s Mongols (Tartars) were first defeated by Muscovite princes.

Moscow becomes the Patriarch of Russian Christianity in the late 14th century.

Pope Innocent I (401-417) The western Emperor Honorius had moved

his government to Ravenna. Innocent I was Pope when Rome was

sacked by the Visigoths in 410. Innocent I took the opportunity to extend

his authority in both political and theological contexts.– He confirmed the decisions of the North African

churches against Pelagianism as he sided with Augustine.

– He took on political and judicial functions in the city of Rome, especially the absence of imperial authority.

Pope Leo I (the Great), 440-461

Leo centralized western ecclesial government and located juridical power in Rome.

Leo also led the city politically and was praised for dissuading Attila the Hun from sacking Rome in 452.

Stressed the priority of Rome in the universal government of the church, especially as he sought to maintain jurisdiction over Illyricum.

Leo is sometimes regarded as the “first Roman Pope” since he stressed his universal responsibility for the church based on Petrine supremacy and his rights as the successor of Peter.

Gregory I (the Great, 590-Gregory I (the Great, 590-605)605)

Born of aristocratic Roman family

Comes with political, diplomatic experience– Papal ambassador to

Constantinople Roman official then

monk, then Pope Sends Augustine to

England as Missionary

Gregory I (the Great)Gregory I (the Great) Takes over the political rule of city of Rome

– (Helps when Rome besieged) Works for high morals in church

– (Encouraged monks to be faithful to their vows) Uses family home as a church; Did not want titles

or honor Developed idea of Purgatory; emphasized

penance over grace Encouraged idea of Communion as literal body &

blood Wrote and collected songs: Gregorian Chants;

Prolific writer

John of Damascus (676-752)John of Damascus (676-752) From an Arab Christian From an Arab Christian

family, he became a monk in family, he became a monk in 717 in Palestine. He was 717 in Palestine. He was later ordained a priest as later ordained a priest as well.well.

Ealier in his life he was an Ealier in his life he was an administrative official under administrative official under the Khalif (Caliph).the Khalif (Caliph).

His Arabic name was Mansur His Arabic name was Mansur (the victor) and also (the victor) and also received the title received the title Chrysorrhoas (gold-pouring) Chrysorrhoas (gold-pouring) due to his eloquence.due to his eloquence.

He lived through periods of He lived through periods of persecution from the persecution from the Iconoclastic Emperor Leo Iconoclastic Emperor Leo and the Khalif Ahlid II (who and the Khalif Ahlid II (who killed leading Christian killed leading Christian bishops).bishops).

John of DamascusJohn of Damascus His theological works are still foundational His theological works are still foundational

in many Orthodox seminaries.in many Orthodox seminaries. His most significant book is “The Fountain of His most significant book is “The Fountain of

Knowledge” which consists of three parts.Knowledge” which consists of three parts.– Theological Method (Aristotle’s Theological Method (Aristotle’s DialecticDialectic))– ““Of Heresies”Of Heresies”– ““Exposition of the Orthodox Faith.”Exposition of the Orthodox Faith.”

The latter embodies the finished result of The latter embodies the finished result of theological thought in the early Greek theological thought in the early Greek church.church.

Some of his hymns are still used such as Some of his hymns are still used such as “The Day of Resurrection”“The Day of Resurrection”

Thomas Aquinas (1225-Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274)1274)

Born near Aquino, Italy.Born near Aquino, Italy. Sent to study at a Sent to study at a

monastery at the age of monastery at the age of five, and then studied five, and then studied at the University of at the University of Naples for six years.Naples for six years.

He joined the He joined the Dominicans at the age Dominicans at the age of 17 and he went to of 17 and he went to study at Cologne, study at Cologne, Germany under Albert Germany under Albert the Great (Magnus) as the Great (Magnus) as well at the University of well at the University of Paris.Paris.

Teaching CareerTeaching Career Receiving his Doctor of Theology from the Receiving his Doctor of Theology from the

University of Paris, he began teaching. He University of Paris, he began teaching. He traveled extensively between Paris and Rome.traveled extensively between Paris and Rome.

He devoted himself to preaching and writing, He devoted himself to preaching and writing, even refusing the archbishopric of Naples and even refusing the archbishopric of Naples and refusing to be the abbot of Monte Cassino.refusing to be the abbot of Monte Cassino.

He stopped writing his He stopped writing his Summa TheologiaeSumma Theologiae in in December 1273 after a mystical experience: December 1273 after a mystical experience: "I cannot go on...All that I have written seems "I cannot go on...All that I have written seems to me like so much straw compared to what I to me like so much straw compared to what I have seen and what has been revealed to have seen and what has been revealed to me." me."

Summa Theologia Systematic Systematic

Christian TheologyChristian Theology Not accepted at Not accepted at

firstfirst Complex, vast, Complex, vast,

ordered systemordered system Used Aristotle’s Used Aristotle’s

dialectic.dialectic.

Systematic Systematic Christian TheologyChristian Theology

Not accepted at Not accepted at firstfirst

Complex, vast, Complex, vast, ordered systemordered system

Used Aristotle’s Used Aristotle’s dialectic.dialectic.

Aquinas’ Five Proofs for GodAquinas’ Five Proofs for God

There is a gradation of things to the There is a gradation of things to the greatest, which produces all that are greatest, which produces all that are less, the cause of all goodness and less, the cause of all goodness and perfectionperfection

Observation of nature shows a Observation of nature shows a governance by which it operates to governance by which it operates to achieve maximum good that show achieve maximum good that show design rather than chance and point to design rather than chance and point to an intelligent being by whom all natural an intelligent being by whom all natural things are directed to their end.things are directed to their end.

Aquinas’ Five Proofs for GodAquinas’ Five Proofs for God

There has to be a first cause of change There has to be a first cause of change that is not changed by anythingthat is not changed by anything

There has to be a first efficient cause of There has to be a first efficient cause of everything in order for there to be everything in order for there to be intermediate and ultimate causes, for intermediate and ultimate causes, for nothing can be the efficient cause of nothing can be the efficient cause of itselfitself

There has to be something which cannot There has to be something which cannot notnot exist for anything to exist, for what exist for anything to exist, for what has the potential not to exist cannot has the potential not to exist cannot begin to existbegin to exist

East and West:Theological Orientations

Contrasted Liturgical

Mystical

Transformation

Relational

Communal

Contemplative

Intellectual

Rational

Reconciliation

Legal

Individual

Deductive Reasoning

John Climacus (579-649)John Climacus (579-649)

““Do you imagine plain words can precisely Do you imagine plain words can precisely or truly or appropriately describe the love or truly or appropriately describe the love of the Lord…and assurance of the heart? of the Lord…and assurance of the heart? Do you imagine that talk of such matters Do you imagine that talk of such matters will mean anything to someone who has will mean anything to someone who has never experienced them? If you think so, never experienced them? If you think so, then you will be like a man who with words then you will be like a man who with words and examples tries to convey the and examples tries to convey the sweetness of honey to people who have sweetness of honey to people who have never tasted it. He talks uselessly. Indeed I never tasted it. He talks uselessly. Indeed I would say he is simply prattling.” (would say he is simply prattling.” (The The Ladder of AscentLadder of Ascent, step 25)., step 25).

The Mystery of GodThe Mystery of God

“God cannot be grasped by the mind. If He could be grasped, He would not be God.” (Evagrious of Pontus)

“The true knowledge of God and vision of God consist in tis—in seeing that He is invisible, because what we seek lies behind all knowledge, being wholly separated by the darkness of incomprehensibility.” (Gregory of Nyssa)

“God’s name is not known, it is wondered at” (Gregory of Nyssa).

Apophatic Theology Maximus the Confessor (580-662): “negative

statements about divine matters are the only true ones.” Book of Ambiguities, 20.

The way of apophasis (denial) is the description of God through negatives—the ways in which he is unlike us.

This acknowledges the breakdown of human thought before the radical transcendence of God which is a prostration before the living God, radically ungraspable, unknowable because he is personal and the plentitude of personal existence. Apophasis is the inscription in human language, in theological language, of the mystery of faith.

Simeon the New Theologian

“Think of a man standing at night inside his house, with all the doors closed; and then suppose that he opens a window just at that moment when there is a sudden flash of lightning. Unable to bear its brightness, at once he protects himself by closing his eyes and drawing back from the window. So it is with the soul that is enclosed in the realm of the senses; if ever she peeps out through the window of the intellect, she is overwhelmed by the brightness, like lightning, of the pledge of the Holy Spirit that is within her. Unable to bear the splendor of unveiled light, at once she is bewildered in her intellect, and she draws back entirely upon herself, taking refuge, as in a house, among sensory and human things.”

Gregory of Nyssa“Imagine a sheer, steep crag with a projecting edge at the top. Now imagine what a person would probably feel if he put his foot on the edge of this precipice and, looking down into the chasm below, saw no solid footing nor anything to hold on to. This is what I think the soul experiences when it goes beyond its footing in material things, in its quest for that which has no dimension and which exists from all eternity. For here there is nothing it can take hold of, neither place, nor time, neither measure nor anything esle; our minds cannot approach it. And thus the soul, slipping at every point from what cannot be grasped, becomes dizzy and perplexed and returns at once again to what is connatural with it, content now to know merely this about the Transcendent, that it is completely different from the nature of the things that the soul knows.”

Western Perspective The West acknowledges the mystery of

God’s essence. But the West stresses the

– Accomodative nature of God’s revelation– The analogous nature of language that describes

God– The primacy of reason over experience and

mysticism. The West tended to think of God as an

object to be studied or described—an object of intellectual knowledge rather than triune persons to be experienced.

Human Identity Western (Augustine): God created a perfect

world in which human beings had received Platonic illumination and perfect communion with God.

Eastern (Irenaeus): God created humanity with the potential (image) for growing into his likeness. Humanity has the self-determining faculty to seek the fullness of communion with God. “If the Word is made man, it is that men might become gods” (Ireaneus)

Theosis: The Eastern Human Vocation

Theosis refers to the process of transfiguration or transformation into the likeness of God and the experience of the full communion with God—to partake of the “divine nature” (cf. 2 Peter 1:4).

This “deification” is neither hypostatic (a union of persons) nor substantial (we do not become gods in essence). Rather, it is a mystical union with God in his communion relationship (his energies).

Eastern theologians talk about “becoming gods”: – “God became man so that men might become gods”

(Athanasius)– “From the Holy Spirit there is the likeness of God, and

the highest of all things to be desired, to become God” (Basil the Great)

Theosis: Three Components

1. Development of godly qualities in life—a cooperative process of transformation by which God shares his likeness with us.

2. Participation in God’s immortality—sharing in God’s eternal existence as the human being is elevated to the divine sphere to breathe eternal life.

3. Communing with God through mystical experience—sharing fellowship with God. But this is not an individualistic idea, but rather a communal one—to unite the whole world with God.

Representative Quotes Maximus the Confessor: “All that God is, except

for an identity in ousia, one becomes when one is deified by grace.”

Anastasius of Sinai (600s): “Theosis is the elevation to what is better, but not the reduction of our nature to something less, nor is it an essential change of our human nature…That which is of God is that which has been lifted up to a greater glory, without its own nature being changed.”

Favorite analogy: marriage (Chrysostom) or Maximus the Confessor dares to theosis an “erotic union.”

Two-Act Drama

The first act—God creates us in his image as God seeks to share his life with us.

The second act—God cooperates with us as we seek to become like him in order to participate in his nature (theosis).

This stresses the human vocation as not a restoration to an original blessedness but rather the elevation to a new level of blessedness.

The Fall Western: The Fall was a radical change in the

nature of human beings—humans inherit original guilt and corruption. Their greatest need is for forgiveness and a change in their nature. Humans fell from a original perfect and static state. Sin annihilated the image of God.

Eastern: The Fall is more like an alternative path—humans become lost and do not know the path to God anymore. Humans have lost their way on the journey toward God. Sin is a malady that needs healing but did not destroy the human identity in the image of God.

Salvation Western: salvation is the forgiveness of the

sin (guilt) and the restoration of the original nature of humanity (regeneration). Salvation is the restoration of the original blessedness.

Eastern: salvation is the renewal of the process of theosis by the divine initiative which we could not discover ourselves or accomplish for ourselves. Salvation is the experience of the blessedness for which created us and intended us to pursue from the beginning.

The Work of Christ Western: the primary work of Christ is the

cross by which he redeems us from the guilt and power of sin. A key idea in Western theology is “satisfaction” and altar sacrifice. Christ satisfies the demands of honor or justice by the cross.

Eastern: the primary work of Christ is the incarnation (which includes his participation in death with us). But the function of Christ’s work is to reorient us to theosis and enable our return to godlikeness.

Ephrem the SyrianHis Hymns

“The Most High knew that Adam wanted to become a god, so He sent His Son, who put him on in order to grant him his desire.”

“Divinity flew down and descended to raise and draw up humanity. The Son has made beautiful the servant’s deformity, and he has become a god, just as he desired.”

“He gave us divinity, we gave Him humanity.”

Liturgical Expressions

Liturgy of St. James: “You have united, O Lord, your divinity with our humanity and our humanity with your divinity; your life with our mortality and our mortality with your life; you have received what was ours and has given to us what was yours; for the life and salvation of our souls. Praise be to you in eternity.”

Matins for Holy Thursday: “In my kingdom, said Christ, I shall be God with you as gods.”

Means of Theosis It is by grace through faith working in love.

– Union with God is God’s gracious initiative.– Union with God is actively pursued by faith.

Macarius of Egypt: “We receive salvation by grace and as a divine gift of the Spirit. But to attain the full measure of virtue we need to possess faith and love, and to struggle to exercise our free will with integrity. In this manner we inherit eternal life as a consequence of both grace and justice. We do not reach the final stage of spiritual maturity through divine power and grace alone, without ourselves making any effort; but neither on the other hand do we attain the final measure of freedom and purity as a result of our own diligence and strength alone, apart from any divine assistance.”

The Function of the Church Theosis is the work of the Holy Spirit in

people, but this work is primarily communal. The church is the primary means by which

the Holy Spirit works as he “deifies” people through the sacraments and liturgy.

The church is the presence of divine grace in the world; we find grace through the church.

The sacraments have an instrumental, but also institutional, function in Eastern theology as they serve the goal of theosis. They are “divine mysteries” rather than primarily “divine commandments.”

Sacraments East and WestEastern Baptism and

Anointing

This is the means by which God begins the process of theosis as we enter the community of grace. The anointing of the Holy Spirit immediately follows the trine immersion in water since the Spirit is given through the chrismation.

Western Baptism and Anointing

The divine gift of forgiveness for sins both original and actual. The anointing (laying on of the hands of the bishop) comes at confirmation at the age of twelve in preparation for first communion.

Sacraments: East and WestSacraments: East and WestEastern Eucharist

The participant is purified, sanctified, spiritually nourished and mystically rendered incorruptible. Thus, through eating they become partakers of the divine nature as members of the mystical body of Christ since they are linked by the Spirit to receive divine life and deification. The church accepts the real and essential presence of Christ. Uses leavened bread Uses leavened bread and both bread and cup are and both bread and cup are received.received.

Western Eucharist

The primary function is to receive the forgiveness of sins and to experience union with Christ’s death for the sake of forgiveness. The church, since 1200, has affirmed the transubstantiation of the elements into the body and blood of the Lord. In the 10th century the church changed to unleavened bread and by the 13th century only the bread was given to the people.

Sacraments: East and WestSacraments: East and WestEastern Penance

It is a second baptism as the clergy proclaim absolution by God’s forgiveness. Regulations (consequences) are given but not for satisfaction or punishment but as discipline for improving the spiritual life. They are therapeutic. The penalties are neither essential nor supplementary to the sacrament. It is a It is a renewal of grace in the life renewal of grace in the life of the believer towards of the believer towards theosis.theosis.

Western Penance

The primary function is forgiveness and satisfaction. The discipline attached is conceived as the temporal penalty of sin which must be satisfied by works of penance. It involves: confession, absolution, and works of satisfaction.

Other Sacraments

Ordination Holy Marriage Holy Unction (for healing) or, in

Roman Catholicism, “Last Rites” (for death).

Veneration of the SaintsVeneration of the SaintsEastern Perspective

Communal Intercessors Models of Theosis Guides to Theosis Categories:

– Apostles– Prophets– Martyrs– Fathers– Monks– Exemplary Clergy or

Laity

Western Perspective

Individual Intercessors Supplies of Excess

Merit

Icons in Eastern Theology

Icons are emblems of the incarnation—they bear witness to the reality of God in the flesh.

Icons are means (not mere reminders) by which God calls us into union with himself and gives grace for theosis.

They are symbols of theosis and the coming victory. Icons, then, sanctify their surroundings.

Role of MaryRole of MaryEastern Perspective

Greatest of all the Saints: complete devotion to theosis throughout her life.

Sinless but not immaculately conceived.

She alone has received complete theosis—she represents the whole church in hope and in the experience of grace

Guide toward theosis.

Western Perspective

Queen of Heaven Co-Mediatrix; Co-

Redemptrix Sinless and also

immaculately conceived

Intercessor for people True and pure human

whereas Jesus is only true human.

Theological Summary:East West

Liturgical Trinitarian theology

begins with threeness.

Christ as Mighty Victor.

Deification (theosis)

Mystical Theology—how am I united with God?

Legal or Juridical Trinitarian Theology

begins with oneness.

Christ as Crucified Victim.

Redemption Practical Theology

—how am I saved from my sins?

'On the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place, and the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read, as long as time permits; then when the reader has ceased, the president verbally instructs, and exhorts to the imitation of these good things. Then we all rise together and pray, and, as we before said, when our prayer is ended, bread and wine and water are brought, and the president in like manner offers prayers and thanksgivings, according to his ability, and the people assent, saying Amen; and there is a distribution to each, and a participation of that over which thanks have been given, and to those who are absent a portion is sent by the deacons. And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succors [give assistance to] the orphans and widows, and those who, through sickness or any other cause are in want, and those who are in bonds, and the strangers sojourning among us, and in a word takes care of all who are in need. But Sunday is the day on which we all hold our common assembly, because it is the first day on which God, having wrought a change in the darkness and matter, made the world; and Jesus Christ our Savior on the same day rose from the dead.'

'On the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place, and the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read, as long as time permits; then when the reader has ceased, the president verbally instructs, and exhorts to the imitation of these good things. Then we all rise together and pray, and, as we before said, when our prayer is ended, bread and wine and water are brought, and the president in like manner offers prayers and thanksgivings, according to his ability, and the people assent, saying Amen; and there is a distribution to each, and a participation of that over which thanks have been given, and to those who are absent a portion is sent by the deacons. And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succors [give assistance to] the orphans and widows, and those who, through sickness or any other cause are in want, and those who are in bonds, and the strangers sojourning among us, and in a word takes care of all who are in need. But Sunday is the day on which we all hold our common assembly, because it is the first day on which God, having wrought a change in the darkness and matter, made the world; and Jesus Christ our Savior on the same day rose from the dead.'

Justin Martyr (2d Century)

1.OT Reading 2.NT Reading 3.Sermon 4.Intercessory Prayers 5.Kiss of Peace 6.Presentation of bread and wine 7.Great Thanksgiving 8.Distribution of bread and wine--by the deacons 9.Extended distribution to the absent 10.Gathering 11.Giving of tithes and offerings

Orthodox Liturgy Orthodox liturgy stresses beauty. Its liturgy seeks to perceive

the beauty of the spiritual world in worship and express it through their worship. This seems to be a peculiar gift of the Orthodox to the Christian heritage, especially that of Byzantium and Russia.

Orthodox liturgy stresses that worship is nothing less than heaven on earth. The holy liturgy embraces two worlds at once—the liturgy of heaven and earth is the same. When the church gathers for Eucharist, it gathers with the whole church around the world in the heavenly places at the throne of God. The Liturgy of the Presanctified states at the time of the Great Entrance: “Now the celestial powers are present with us, and worship invisibly.”

Orthodox liturgy is primary in their faith and theology. Their approach to religion is primarily a liturgical or doxological one—the Orthodox understand doctrine in the context of worship. The church is first of all a worshipping community. Their invitation to the non-orthodox is to “come and see.” Consequently, ritual is extremely important for the Orthodox.

Contrast: East and West

Vladimir’s envoys reported: “We knew not whether we were in heaven or on earth, for surely there is no such splendor or beauty anywhere upon earth. We cannot describe it to you; only this we know, that God dwells there among humans, and that their service surpasses the worship of all other places. For we cannot forget that beauty.”

In contrast, one Russian cleric responded to worship in 14th century Florence by the Roman church in this way: “What have you seen of worth among the Latins? They do not even know how to venerate the church of God. They raise their voices as the fools, and their singing is a discordant wail. They have no idea of beauty and reverence in worship, for they strike tombones, blow horns, use organs, wave their hands, trample with their feet, and do many other irreverent and disorderly things which bring joy to the devil.”

Common Liturgy

The Liturgy of the Word– Gloria– Collect—prayers of the

church– Old Testament

Readings (followed by Psalms)

– Readings from Epistles (followed by Psalms)

– Allelulia– Gospel Readings– Homily (Sermon)– Nicene Creed

(Dismissal of Catechumens)

The Liturgy of the Table– Kiss of Peace– Offertory– Prayer over the gifts– Sanctus – Words of Institution– Anamnesis– Epiclesis– Intercessions– Lord’s Prayer– Fraction– Giving of Bread and

Wine– Communion Song

Main Parts of the MassMain Parts of the Mass

Entrance (Gathering)Entrance (Gathering) Liturgy of the WordLiturgy of the Word

– Reading (OT, Epistles, Gospel)Reading (OT, Epistles, Gospel)– Explaining (Homily)Explaining (Homily)– Prayers (Intercesions)Prayers (Intercesions)

Liturgy of the TableLiturgy of the Table– Offering (Preparatory)Offering (Preparatory)– Consecrating (Prayer)Consecrating (Prayer)– Communing (Eating & Drinking)Communing (Eating & Drinking)

Benediction (Dismissal—”ite missa est”)Benediction (Dismissal—”ite missa est”)

East and West: 11East and West: 11thth Century Century

East

A cappella—service is chanted by choir

Greek Cross Architecture

Leavened Bread Iconostasis Mystical in Theology Gratitude in Mood Surrounded by Icons

West

Instrumental—use of choirs

Roman Cross Architecture

Unleavened Bread Altar (sanctuary) area Legal in Theology Penitential in Mood Surrounded by Altars

Table DifferenceTable Difference

Eastern

Stressed a thanksgiving atmosphere in their Eucharist which served theosis, joy and heavenly presence. The table is more eschatological—it is the present table of kingdom reality.

Western

Stressed the altar and penitential dimension of the table. Medieval additions to the liturgy included: Psalm 43 preface, ablutions, “I’m not worthy” priestly prayers, and singing Agnus Dei.

The Gospel in Stone: The The Gospel in Stone: The Development of Gothic Development of Gothic

ArchitectureArchitecture

The Gospel in Stone: The The Gospel in Stone: The Development of Gothic Development of Gothic

ArchitectureArchitecture Earliest Christian Earliest Christian

architecture: architecture: BasilicaBasilica Followed by Followed by

RomanesqueRomanesque Gothic developed by Gothic developed by

scholars at Cathedral scholars at Cathedral School of ChartresSchool of Chartres

First Gothic cathedral First Gothic cathedral St. Denis 1137St. Denis 1137

Earliest Christian Earliest Christian architecture: architecture: BasilicaBasilica

Followed by Followed by RomanesqueRomanesque

Gothic developed by Gothic developed by scholars at Cathedral scholars at Cathedral School of ChartresSchool of Chartres

First Gothic cathedral First Gothic cathedral St. Denis 1137St. Denis 1137

Abbot Suger of St. Denis Abbot Suger of St. Denis Church, 1144Church, 1144

He wrote: “Among the crowded multitude…who strove to He wrote: “Among the crowded multitude…who strove to flock in to worship and kiss the holy relics, no one among flock in to worship and kiss the holy relics, no one among the countless thousands of people because their very the countless thousands of people because their very density could move a foot.”density could move a foot.”

He tore down bulky walls, enlarged windows, and dispersed He tore down bulky walls, enlarged windows, and dispersed the general gloom of the Romanesque setting.the general gloom of the Romanesque setting.

He envisioned a church where walls would be thin and He envisioned a church where walls would be thin and skeletal, and external light would illuminate the interior.skeletal, and external light would illuminate the interior.

““Man may rise to the contemplation of the divine through Man may rise to the contemplation of the divine through senses,” he wrote, and be “transported from this inferior to senses,” he wrote, and be “transported from this inferior to that higher world.”that higher world.”

Cf. Cf. Western HumanitiesWestern Humanities, p. 250 (9.20, 21)., p. 250 (9.20, 21).

Influence of GothicInfluence of Gothic

From St. Denis outside of Paris to Spain From St. Denis outside of Paris to Spain and Scandinavia, Gothic dominated and Scandinavia, Gothic dominated architecture for nearly 400 years.architecture for nearly 400 years.

Towns constructed churches, town halls, Towns constructed churches, town halls, hospitals and universities in this style.hospitals and universities in this style.

This was aided by new technology, wealth This was aided by new technology, wealth and the patronage of the monarchs.and the patronage of the monarchs.

ContextContext

Impressed by the light of Hagia Sophia, Impressed by the light of Hagia Sophia, Crusaders returned with new Crusaders returned with new technologytechnology– Winches to hoist heavy stonesWinches to hoist heavy stones– Renewed interest in geometryRenewed interest in geometry– Pointed arches and the rib vaultPointed arches and the rib vault– Flying buttresses that enabled larger Flying buttresses that enabled larger

windowswindows– Sense of interior unity and pronounced Sense of interior unity and pronounced

vertical emphasis.vertical emphasis.

Gothic Height and LightGothic Height and Light Ribbed vaults distribute the weight of the walls as they are Ribbed vaults distribute the weight of the walls as they are

supported by vertical piers.supported by vertical piers.

Flying buttresses function as exterior supports to the walls.Flying buttresses function as exterior supports to the walls.

Pointed arches are more flexible since the angle can vary Pointed arches are more flexible since the angle can vary while keeping the keystone at the same height. while keeping the keystone at the same height.

As the engineering was perfected with trial and error, As the engineering was perfected with trial and error, churches were adapted (e.g., before buttresses, the walls of churches were adapted (e.g., before buttresses, the walls of Notre Dame were 5 feet thick, but now they are 16 inches).Notre Dame were 5 feet thick, but now they are 16 inches).

Since the stress is on the vertical piers, the flying Since the stress is on the vertical piers, the flying buttresses and distributed through arches, the walls now buttresses and distributed through arches, the walls now could have larger widows and thus give more light to the could have larger widows and thus give more light to the interior.interior.

Technical InnovationsTechnical InnovationsTechnical InnovationsTechnical Innovations

Ribbed Ribbed vaultingvaulting

Ribbed Ribbed vaultingvaulting


Ribbed vaultingRibbed vaulting

Pointed archesPointed arches

Ribbed vaultingRibbed vaulting

Pointed archesPointed arches


Ribbed vaultingRibbed vaulting Pointed archesPointed arches

Flying Flying buttressesbuttresses

Ribbed vaultingRibbed vaulting Pointed archesPointed arches

Flying Flying buttressesbuttresses

Gothic ArchitectureGothic Architecture

Where: France, northern EuropeWhere: France, northern Europe

When: 1140-1500When: 1140-1500

Major Building Form: Cathedral, Major Building Form: Cathedral, University, and Guild HallsUniversity, and Guild Halls

Gothic StyleGothic Style

Plan: Unified Interior, Expanded Plan: Unified Interior, Expanded Apse (including choir)Apse (including choir)

Support: Piers, Flying ButtressesSupport: Piers, Flying Buttresses

Hallmark: Pointed Arch, Rib VaultHallmark: Pointed Arch, Rib Vault

Décor: Sculpture, stained glassDécor: Sculpture, stained glass

Gothic StyleGothic Style

Effect: Soaring, Vertical, skeletalEffect: Soaring, Vertical, skeletal

Ambiance: airy, brightAmbiance: airy, bright

Inspiration: Heavenly LightInspiration: Heavenly Light

Goal: To impress, uplift; create more Goal: To impress, uplift; create more space for pilgrimsspace for pilgrims

Notre Dame (1163-1250)Notre Dame (1163-1250)

Victor Hugo: “a vast symphony of Victor Hugo: “a vast symphony of stone”stone”

First Cathedral of colossal scale and First Cathedral of colossal scale and prototype of all that followed.prototype of all that followed.

Previously 69’ foot nave vaults were Previously 69’ foot nave vaults were the highest, but Notre Dame’s are the highest, but Notre Dame’s are 115’.115’.

Floor Plan of Notre DameFloor Plan of Notre Dame

Enlarged Apse with ChoirEnlarged Apse with Choir

Non-Projecting Transept.Non-Projecting Transept.

Four aisles and a central Nave.Four aisles and a central Nave.

Gallery above the aislesGallery above the aisles

Notre Dame, ParisNotre Dame, Paris

Worship in Gothic CathedralsWorship in Gothic CathedralsWorship in Gothic CathedralsWorship in Gothic Cathedrals

Place where humanity could meet GodPlace where humanity could meet God Priest brought humanity to God/ChristPriest brought humanity to God/Christ

– Through communion & sacramentsThrough communion & sacraments As pastor he brought God to humanityAs pastor he brought God to humanity

– Through WordThrough Word– People could experience GodPeople could experience God

Grace, righteousness, powerGrace, righteousness, power

Place where humanity could meet GodPlace where humanity could meet God Priest brought humanity to God/ChristPriest brought humanity to God/Christ

– Through communion & sacramentsThrough communion & sacraments As pastor he brought God to humanityAs pastor he brought God to humanity

– Through WordThrough Word– People could experience GodPeople could experience God

Grace, righteousness, powerGrace, righteousness, power

EffectEffectEffectEffect

Sanctuary flooded with lightSanctuary flooded with light– Diffused through color of stained glassDiffused through color of stained glass

Stone seemed to soar to heavenStone seemed to soar to heaven– Lift worshipper to GodLift worshipper to God– Like praying handsLike praying hands

Everything to the glory of GodEverything to the glory of God Every aspect of church teachesEvery aspect of church teaches

Sanctuary flooded with lightSanctuary flooded with light– Diffused through color of stained glassDiffused through color of stained glass

Stone seemed to soar to heavenStone seemed to soar to heaven– Lift worshipper to GodLift worshipper to God– Like praying handsLike praying hands

Everything to the glory of GodEverything to the glory of God Every aspect of church teachesEvery aspect of church teaches

Chartres Cathedral

St. Denis:

Nave

PurposePurposePurposePurpose

TeachingTeachingWorshipWorshipCommunity Community UseUse

TeachingTeachingWorshipWorshipCommunity Community UseUse

TeachingTeachingTeachingTeaching

Preeminence of GodPreeminence of God In every dimension of the buildingIn every dimension of the building In stained glass and in statuaryIn stained glass and in statuary

– Light = Christ, Truth, Word, GospelLight = Christ, Truth, Word, Gospel– Color illustrates story lineColor illustrates story line

Becomes Bible story bookBecomes Bible story book– Reflects mysteries of faithReflects mysteries of faith

Preeminence of GodPreeminence of God In every dimension of the buildingIn every dimension of the building In stained glass and in statuaryIn stained glass and in statuary

– Light = Christ, Truth, Word, GospelLight = Christ, Truth, Word, Gospel– Color illustrates story lineColor illustrates story line

Becomes Bible story bookBecomes Bible story book– Reflects mysteries of faithReflects mysteries of faith

Reflects all creationReflects all creationReflects all creationReflects all creation

Symbolizes universe over which God Symbolizes universe over which God rulesrules– Ordered, proportionalOrdered, proportional– Universe that looks to GodUniverse that looks to God– But illuminated by GodBut illuminated by God

Three doors = TrinityThree doors = Trinity Rose window = MaryRose window = Mary Front: Story of CreationFront: Story of Creation

Symbolizes universe over which God Symbolizes universe over which God rulesrules– Ordered, proportionalOrdered, proportional– Universe that looks to GodUniverse that looks to God– But illuminated by GodBut illuminated by God

Three doors = TrinityThree doors = Trinity Rose window = MaryRose window = Mary Front: Story of CreationFront: Story of Creation

Goal: Make known whole of Goal: Make known whole of Biblical HistoryBiblical History

Goal: Make known whole of Goal: Make known whole of Biblical HistoryBiblical History

Music, incense, objects to touchMusic, incense, objects to touch Communion to taste – all sensesCommunion to taste – all senses Learn lives of martyrs, saintsLearn lives of martyrs, saints Virtues and vicesVirtues and vices Promise of heaven; punishment of Promise of heaven; punishment of

hellhell

Music, incense, objects to touchMusic, incense, objects to touch Communion to taste – all sensesCommunion to taste – all senses Learn lives of martyrs, saintsLearn lives of martyrs, saints Virtues and vicesVirtues and vices Promise of heaven; punishment of Promise of heaven; punishment of

hellhell

Judgment from Amiens Cathedral

Architecture should be worthy Architecture should be worthy of God’s presenceof God’s presence

Architecture should be worthy Architecture should be worthy of God’s presenceof God’s presence

– Church would reach up to Church would reach up to heavenheaven

– Symbolize the presence of GodSymbolize the presence of God– Appropriate for miracle of Appropriate for miracle of

communion: transformation of communion: transformation of elements into body and blood elements into body and blood of Christof Christ

– Church would reach up to Church would reach up to heavenheaven

– Symbolize the presence of GodSymbolize the presence of God– Appropriate for miracle of Appropriate for miracle of

communion: transformation of communion: transformation of elements into body and blood elements into body and blood of Christof Christ

Communal UseCommunal UseCommunal UseCommunal Use– Place of refuge, help, public meetingPlace of refuge, help, public meeting– Poor could come to be fed, cared forPoor could come to be fed, cared for– Homeless could sleep thereHomeless could sleep there– Plays performed in front of cathedralPlays performed in front of cathedral– Square in front where people Square in front where people

gathered for various public eventsgathered for various public events– Door became public bulletin boardDoor became public bulletin board

– Place of refuge, help, public meetingPlace of refuge, help, public meeting– Poor could come to be fed, cared forPoor could come to be fed, cared for– Homeless could sleep thereHomeless could sleep there– Plays performed in front of cathedralPlays performed in front of cathedral– Square in front where people Square in front where people

gathered for various public eventsgathered for various public events– Door became public bulletin boardDoor became public bulletin board

Dominating the SkylineDominating the SkylineDominating the SkylineDominating the Skyline

Made statement as Made statement as to what was most to what was most importantimportant

Shows how God Shows how God has triumphed over has triumphed over all through His all through His GospelGospel

Made statement as Made statement as to what was most to what was most importantimportant

Shows how God Shows how God has triumphed over has triumphed over all through His all through His GospelGospel

Spread of Gothic Spread of Gothic ArchitectureArchitecture


France was its France was its homelandhomeland

France was its France was its homelandhomeland

Notre DameNotre Dame RheimsRheims

Chartres



Developed in Developed in GermanyGermany

Developed in Developed in GermanyGermany

CologneCologneCologneCologne

StrasbourgStrasbourgStrasbourgStrasbourg

St. Stephens St. Stephens ViennaVienna

St. Stephens St. Stephens ViennaVienna



EnglandEngland EnglandEngland

Salisbury

Winchester



Milan, ItalyMilan, Italy Milan, ItalyMilan, Italy

missions, theology and liturgy

Documents

northern england

pope of rome jurisdiction

northern italy

pepin conquered italy

english church

holy roman empire

roman culture

southern england