Catechism of The Council of Trent (in Less than a Year)
By Mark Langley
Catechism of The Council of Trent (in Less than a Year)Oct 14, 2023
Day 104 Fourth Commandment Honor Your Father and Mother Part II
In this episode we read the Catechism with regard to its treatment of the words "Honor" and "Father" and "Mother." We also read excerpts from the Summa Theologica from Secunda Secundae concerning the virtue of Piety.
Day 103 The Fourth Commandment Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother
In this episode we commence our study of the Fourth Commandment of the Decalogue: Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. As the fourth "Word" (of the "Ten Words") is the first on the second tablet, we discuss why Catholics number and arrange the ten commandments as they do. The Catholic arrangement is from St Augustine's teaching in his work "Quaestiones in Exodum," from which we read. Additionally we read from the Summa Theologica, Secunda Secundae Question 122 article 5, "Whether the fourth precept, about honoring one's parents, is fittingly expressed?"
Day 102 The Third Commandment Part II
In this episode we finish our study of the third commandment. Among other things, the Catechism explains what sorts of activities are permitted and not permitted on the Sabbath.
Day 101 The Third Commandment: Remember Keep Holy the Sabbath
In this episode we commence our study of the third commandment regarding the Lord's Day. We read the Catechism in its treatment of the words "Remember" and "Keep Holy the Sabbath." Among other things , the Catechism sets forth three reasons why the word remember is employed. We also look briefly at the Summa Theologica (ST. IIa IIae Q. 122 art. 4)
Day 100 The Second Commandment (Conclusion)
In this episode we read about the conditions of a just oath and conclude our study of the second commandment by discussing the negative part of the prohibition.
Day 99 The Second Commandment
In this episode we commence our study of the second commandment of the Decalogue "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain". In addition to reading the Catechism concerning this commandment we also take a look at the question in the Summa Theologica "Whether the second precept of the decalogue is fittingly expressed?" (ST. Secunda Secundae, Q. 122, A 3)
Day 98 The First Commandment Conclusion
In this episode we wrap up the Catechism's treatment of the first commandment. In particular the catechism discusses the "spurs" contained in the words "Mighty" and "Jealous". The catechism also discusses the threat and reward attached to this commandment.
Day 97 The First Commandment Part II (The distinction between Latria and Dulia)
In this episode we continue reading the Catechism in its treatment of the First Commandment. Among other things we discuss the grouping of the commandments and why Exodus XX 2-6 should all be understood as setting forth the first commandment. We also read St Thomas Aquinas' treatment of the distinction of the worship of "Latria" as opposed to the worship (or honor) of "Dulia."
Day 96 The First Commandment
In this episode we begin discussing the first commandment. Additionally we look at two articles from the summa concerning whether the commandments are part of the Natural Law as well as whether the first commandment was fittingly worded.
Day 95 Part III The Decalogue
In this episode we commence our study of Part III of the Catechism concerning the Decalogue (The Ten Commandments). The Catechism begins treatment by a discussion of the Ten Commandments in general.
Day 94 The Sacrament of Matrimony Final Considerations
In this episode we finish reading the Catechism in its treatment of the sacrament of Matrimony. The Catechism discusses the duties of the spouses, impediments and the role of parents in giving consent to children who are to be married. This episode concludes our study of Part II of the Catechism of the Council of Trent.
Day 93 Marriage as a Sacrament
In this episode we read the Catechism in its treatment of Marriage not just as an institution of nature but as a sacrament. In addition we study the three blessings of marriage and discuss its indissolubility.
Day 92 The Sacrament of Matrimony
In this episode we commence our study of the sacrament of Matrimony. The Catechism first treats Matrimony as an institution of nature and then it treats it as a thing of grace (i.e. a sacrament)
Day 91 The Degrees of the Priesthood
In this episode we conclude the catechisms treatment of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. The Catechism distinguishes various degrees of the priesthood and also discusses the qualifications and impediments to Holy Orders as well as its effects.
Day 90 Holy Orders Part II - The Major and Minor Orders
In this episode we continue to read the Catechism concerning the Sacrament of Holy Orders. In particular we study the distinctions of Major and Minor Orders and why the Church used to designate seven different "orders" encompassed within this sacrament. It is within the scope of the church's power to order itself and make a division of labor with respect to the sacrament of the Eucharist- and we see that all of the orders are at the service of the priest. Additionally, we read two excerpts from the Summa Theologica concerning the division and multiplicity of orders. (ST. IIIa. Supplement Q. 37 a. 1 and a. 2)
Day 89 Introduction to the Sacrament of Holy Orders
In this episode we commence our study of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. In addtion to reading the Catechism concerning why Orders is a sacrament we also take a look at Question 34 of the Supplement to the Summa Theologica concerning this same question. Additionally we note that certain changes were made with respect to the suppression of the minor orders in 1973 by Pope Paul VI in his Motu Proprio Quaedam Ministeria. (ST. III Supplement Q. 34 a.1)
The Sacrament of Extreme Unction Conclusion
In this episode we conclude the Catechism's treatment of the sacrament of Extreme Unction. We discuss the subject, the minister and the effects of this sacrament.
Day 87 The Sacrament of Extreme Unction
In this episode we commence our study of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction. We discuss why extreme unction is a sacrament, its unity as well as its matter and form. Additionally we read selections from two articles in the Supplement to the Summa Theologica. (ST Supplement Q. 29. a.1 and a. 2)
Day 86 The sacrament of Penance - Conclusion
In this episode we finish our study of the sacrament of Penance. The Catechism following St. Thomas Aquinas sets forth three reasons why the works of satisfaction are suitably enumerated (i.e. almsdeeds, prayer and fasting) Additionally, the catechism discusses the duties of the minister of Penance.
Day 85 Satisfaction - the third integral part of Penance
In this episode we begin reading the Catechism with regard to the third integral part of the sacrament of Penance, namely Satisfaction. The Catechism distinguishes three kinds (or degrees) of satisfaction, the necessity of satisfaction, and six advantages of performing works of satisfaction.
Day 84 The Qualities of a Good Confession
In this episode we read and continue to discuss the Catechism's treatment about the second integral part of the sacrament of penance- "Confession." The Catechism sets forth the law of confession, and the qualities a good confession. We also read about the usual minister of the sacrament and the qualities of a good confessor.
Day 83 Confession, its necessity and advantages
In this episode we continue our discussion of the integral parts of the sacrament of penance discussing confession. We discuss the necessity of confession and how it is beneficial to the individual and society. Additionally we read some articles concerning this same matter from the Summa Theologica. (ST. IIIa. Supplement selections from Q. 6-Q.7)
Day 82 The definition, qualities, conditions and effects of contrition
In this episode we read the Catechism's treatment of the first integral part of Penance- contrition. The Catechism explains that contrition is a sorrow and detestation of sin. This detestation should be supreme, intense and universal. The Catechism also sets for the conditions required for contrition and its effects.
Day 81 The Integral Parts of Penance
In this episode we continue discussing the sacrament of Penance. The matter of the sacrament consists in three actions of the penitent which are considered as "integral parts." We discuss briefly what is meant by "integral part." Additionally, we continue reading selections from the third part of the Summa concerning Penance. (ST. IIIa Q. 84 and Q. 90 a. 2
Day 80 The Form of the Sacrament of Penance
In this episode we discuss the words "I absolve thee" as the form of the sacrament of penance. In addition we discuss why some sacraments include the imposition of the hands of the minister (e.g. confirmation and Holy Orders) while other sacraments do not include this. (ST. Q. 84, a.3 and a. 4)
Day 79 Why Penance is a Sacrament
In this episode we read the Catechism's treatment concerning why Penance is a sacrament and we also begin to discuss its matter and form. Additionally we read from the Summa Theologica concerning these subjects and especially why the acts of the penitent may be considered the matter of Penance. (ST. IIIa. Q. 84 a.1 and a.2)
Day 78 Beginning to Understand The Sacrament of Penance - Penance as a virtue
In this episode we commence our study of the sacrament of penance. The Catechism first explains the various meanings of the word penance, and then explains that penance is, first of all, a virtue. IN addition we read an article from the Summa Theologica in which St Thomas Aquinas justifies the saying of St Jerome that "penance is a second plank." (ST. IIIa. Q. 84, a. 6)
Day 77 The Eucharist as a Sacrifice
In this episode we conclude the Catechism's treatment concerning the Eucharist. Having set forth the doctrine concerning the Eucharist as a sacrament, the section concludes with a discussion concerning the Eucharist as a sacrifice. In addition to reading the catechism, we also read from three articles from the Summa Theologica concerning these same matters as well as St Thomas' explanation and division of the words in the rite of the Mass. (ST IIIa. Q. 79 a. 7, Q. and Q. 83 a.1 and a.4
Day 76 Should Catholics receive the Eucharist under the species of bread and wine? Can a wicked priest validly consecrate the Eucharist?
In this episode we read the Catechism regarding the reception of the Eucharist under the species of bread and wine. Why do many Catholics receive the Eucharist under only the species of Bread? Does the reception of the Eucharist under both species add anything? We also discuss the role of the Priest as an instrumental agent in the consecration of the Eucharist. In addition we read two relevant articles from the Summa Theologica. (ST IIIa. Q 80 a. 12 and Q. 82 a. 5)
Day 75 The reception of the Eucharist
In this episode we read the Catechism concerning the reception of the Eucharist. Although canon law has changed the requirements concerning fast and abstinence before receiving the Eucharist it is instructive to read the stricter laws that were in place in the sixteenth century as they reflect the sort of disposition that Catholics should have in receiving the Eucharist. We also take a look at three articles from the Summa Theologica concerning the reception of this sacrament. (ST. IIIa. Q. 80 a. 1, a. 2, a. 10)
Day 74 The Effects of the Eucharist
In this episode we read about the manifold effects of the sacrament of the Eucharist. Many of the effects of the sacrament may be adduced by a comaprison with the effects that physical food has on the living body. We also read about the effects of the Eucharist from the Summa Theologica. (ST. IIIa. Q.79)
Day 73 The Mystery of Transubstantiation
In this episode we discuss the mystery of transubstantiation whereby the entire substance of the bread and wine becomes the entire substance of Christ's body and blood. Transubstantiation does not indicate any sort of local movement nor is it like any natural change (or "transformation") in our experience, therefore a new term was necessary to indicate this supernatural change. In addition to reading the catechism we also spend some time reading some excerpts from three articles in question 75 of the third part of the Summa Theologica. (ST. IIIa Q. 75 a. 2, a. 4, and a. 7)
Day 72 The Manner in which the whole Christ is contained in the Eucharist
In this episode we discuss the manner in which the whole Christ (i.e. the body, blood soul and Divinity) is contained in both species, although differently. We discuss the meaning of the term "concomitance" and how the substance of Christ is contained in every part of the Eucharistic species. Additionally we read portions of the first three articles from question 76 "Of the way in which Christ is contained in this sacrament." (ST. IIIa. Q. 76 a. 1-3)
Day 71 Three Mysteries of the Eucharist
In this episode we read the Catechism concerning the three mysteries of the Eucharist. The Catechism also gives considerable evidence from Scripture, the teaching of the Fathers and declarations from church councils concerning the truth that Christ's true body and blood are contained in this sacrament under the accidents of bread and wine. Additionally, we read several sections from the Summa Theologica concerning these matters. (ST. IIIa Q. 75. a. 1 and a. 5)
Day 70 The Form of the Eucharist: The words used in the consecration of the bread and of the wine
In this episode we read the Catechism concerning the words used in the consecration of the bread and the wine effecting the transubstantiation. These words are the form of the sacrament. In addition we read the replies in several articles of the Summa Theologica where St Thomas talks about the form of the Eucharist. (IIIa. Q. 78. a. 1, a. 3, and a. 4)
Day 69 The Matter of the Eucharist - Bread and Wine
In this episode we read the Catechism's explanation concerning why Christ chose bread and wine for the matter for the sacrament of his body and blood. The Catechism also discusses not only the particular suitability of bread and wine- but also why the bread should be unleavened (in the Latin Rite) and why there should be water mingled with it. In addition we read several articles from the Summa Theologica concerning this same subject. (ST IIIa Q. 74, a.1-a.6)
Day 68 The Eucharist, its institution, various names, and why it is one sacrament.
In this episode we commence our study of the Eucharist. The Catechism explains why it is a sacrament and when it was instituted. It also sets forth the various names for this sacrament and why it is only one sacrament although contained under the species of bread and wine. As a supplement to our study we read several articles from Question 73 in the thrid part of the Summa Theologica. (IIIa. Q. 73. a.1-5)
Day 67 The effects of the sacrament of Confirmation
In this episode we conclude our study of the the sacrament of confirmation reading the catechism concerning the effects of the sacrament, most prominently sanctifying grace and the special "character." We also read what St Thomas says about these things from Question 72 in the third part of the Summa. (IIIa Q.72 a-5-7)
(Interestingly, this podcast was recorded during a thunderstorm which can be heard rumbling in the background)
Day 66 The Form, Minister, Sponsor and Recipient of Confirmation
In this episode we consider the words of the form of Confirmation and mention the changes that have been made in this form after the Second Vatican Council. As St. Thomas Aquinas argues in article 8 of question 60 (Tertia Pars) a change in the words of the form does not render a sacraent invalid so long as the change does not destroy the essential sense of the words. Additionally we read the Catechism concerning the ordinary minister of the sacrament as well as why a sponsor is needed and again- who does the church desire to be confirmed? (ST. IIIa. Q. 72 a. 4 and a. 11)
Day 65 The Matter and Form of the Sacrament of Confirmation
In this episode we explore the matter and form of the sacrament of confirmation. We focus primarily on the aptness of Chrism as the matter for the sacrament and also why the Chrism must be consecrated by a Bishop. In addition to reading the Catechism we also read the Summa Theologica concerning these same subjects. (ST. IIIa Q. 72 a. 2 and a. 3)
Day 64 Why Confirmation is a Sacrament
In this episode we commence our study of the sacrament of Confirmation. The Catechism cites multiple texts from the earliest Popes even from the first century (St. Clement and Denis The Areopagite) and many others (e.g. Urban, Fabian, Augustine, Ambrose) testifying that the Church has taught that Confirmation is a true sacrament from the very beginning. The Catechism explains why Confirmation is distinct from Baptism. Additionally we look at St Thomas Aquinas argument concerning why confirmation is a sacrament. (ST. Q. 72. a.1)
Day 63 Conclusion of The Sacrament of Baptism: The Ceremonies
In this episode we conclude our study of the sacrament of Baptism by discussing all the ceremonies attendant upon its administration. The ceremonies are divided into three categories: Ceremonies before arrival at the baptismal font, ceremonies at the baptismal font, and ceremonies that follow Baptism.
Day 62 Three More Effects of Baptism
In this episode we conclude our reading and discussion of the six effects of Baptism: The remission of sin, the remission of punishment due to sin, Grace of regeneration, the infusion of virtues, character of a Christian, and opening the gates of heaven. We also revisit what St Thomas Aquinas says concerning the sacraments that imprint a "character" , what a character is and which sacraments imprint a character. Finally we read several passages from the Summa concerning whether the effects fo Baptism are received equally by all and why Baptism opens the gates of heaven. (ST. IIIa Q. 69 a. 7-8)
Day 61 The First Three Effects of Baptism
In this episode we begin our study of the six effects of Baptism: The Remission of all sin, the remission of all punishment due to sin, and the grace of regeneration. The Catechism explains why even though sin and its punishment is remitted by Baptism, it does not free us from all miseries of this life. IN addition to reading the Catechism we also take a look at the first three articles of Question 69 in the third part of the Summa Theologica in which St Thomas treats of these first three effects of Baptism. (ST. IIIa Q. 69 a.1-a.3)
Day 60 The Dispositions Necessary for Baptism
In this episode we discuss the dispositions necessary for the recipient of Baptism (intention, Faith, and repentance). We also read several articles in support of the Catechisms teaching from the Summa Theologica. (ST. IIIa, Q. 68. a.4-a.9)
Day 59 The Necessity of Baptism
In this episode we discuss the necessity of Baptism. In particular we discuss the distinction between the Baptism of adults and of children with regard to when it should be administered. With infants Baptism should not be deferred but with adults it is sometimes advantageous to defer the sacrament. As an aid to our understanding we turn to the third part of the Summa Theologica Question 68 articles 1-3.
Day 58 The Duties of Godparents
In this episode we continue our study of Baptism focusing on sponsors (Godparents) - why they are necessary, who is eligible to be a sponsor and the duites that sponsors have to their Godchildren. We also take a brief look at St Thomas' discussion of these topics (ST. IIIa. Q. 67 a.7-8)
Day 57 The Institution and Ministers of Baptism
In this episode we discuss the distinction between when Baptism was instituted as a sacrament and when it was made obligatory to receive. We also discuss the various gradations among the ministers of Baptism and to whom it primarily belongs to baptize. (ST. IIIa. Q. 66 a. 2 and Q. 67 a. 2)
Day 56 The Form of Baptism
In this episode we discuss the words of the form of Baptism Additionally, we continue to read tertia pars of the Summa where St Thomas addressed the form as well as the administration of the sacrament. (ST. IIIa Q.66 a6-7)
Day 55 The Matter of the Sacrament of Baptism
In this episode we discuss why water is such an appropriate matter for the sacrament of Baptism as instituted by Our Lord. The Catechism gives several reasons following the thought of St Thomas Aquinas in the Summa Theologica. (ST. IIIa Q. 66 a.3)