The Papal Encyclicals: 1958–1981
Overview
For nearly 2,000 years the bishops of Rome have addressed theological topics of especially timely concern through the circulation of papal letters. These letters became known as encyclicals, and since the later eighteenth century have become increasingly important in the popes’ exercise of their teaching office. In the mid-nineteenth century, the encyclical letter began to take on its contemporary form as a theological treatise applying Christian teaching to immediate circumstances. And in the twentieth century papal encyclicals have emerged as some of the most important theology produced worldwide. The Papal Encyclicals: 1740–1981 (5 vols.) presents 280 encyclicals in English from Benedict XIV to John Paul II. These letters approach matters of faith and morals, and answer important questions on dogmatics and social and ethical issues of the society during the time they were composed. Whether a student, scholar, or layperson, this collection is essential for studying and searching the papal teaching of the past 250 years.
Top Highlights
“A vivid and lively self-awareness on the part of the Church inevitably leads to a comparison between the ideal image of the Church as Christ envisaged it, His holy and spotless bride,4 and the actual image which the Church presents to the world today.” (Page 136)
“Moreover, if one were to apply here the so-called principle of totality, could it not be accepted that the intention to have a less prolific but more rationally planned family might transform an action which renders natural processes infertile into a licit and provident control of birth? Could it not be admitted, in other words, that procreative finality applies to the totality of married life rather than to each single act? A further question is whether, because people are more conscious today of their responsibilities, the time has not come when the transmission of life should be regulated by their intelligence and will rather than through the specific rhythms of their own bodies.” (Page 224)
“Our purpose is merely to send you a sincere message, as between brothers and members of a common family” (Page 136)
“ vigor and love in which celibacy finds security and happiness” (Page 210)
“The transmission of human life is a most serious role in which married people collaborate freely and responsibly with God the Creator. It has always been a source of great joy to them, even though it sometimes entails many difficulties and hardships.” (Page 223)
- Title: The Papal Encyclicals: 1958–1981
- Author: Claudia Carlen
- Series: The Papal Encyclicals
- Publisher: Pierian Press
- Print Publication Date: 1990
- Logos Release Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subjects: Catholic Church › Doctrines; Encyclicals, Papal
- ISBNs: 9780876502723, 9780876502693, 0876502729, 0876502699
- Resource ID: LLS:PAPENCY1958
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2024-03-25T20:34:52Z