When the organizer for this event contacted me about speaking, I agreed before asking about the topic. . .typical Dominican response: "Sure! I'll talk. . .oh, what's the topic?" I sent him an email with my fingers crossed that he wouldn't ask me to speak on eschatology (i.e., The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven, Hell). This is my least favorite sub-category of systematic theology b/c so much of what happens to us after death is simply unknown. Anyway, he writes back: "How about heaven and hell?" HA! This is the third time in as many years that someone or some group has asked me to speak on heaven and hell. . .do you think the Lord is trying to tell me something?
Anyway, I will give it my best shot. . .
Anyway, I will give it my best shot. . .
Y'all come!
P.S. Here's a link to the only definitive pronouncement on life after death made by the Church, Benedictus Deus, issued by Pope Benedict XII in 1336. Good luck!
One of my favorite books is "The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Hell Heaven" by Fr Martin von Cochem in 1900. Compact and to the point, when I need encouragement, I read the chapters on heaven. When I need to stay on the narrow path, I read a chapter or two on hell.
ReplyDeleteHave fun at your talk, and I'll be praying for you!
BTW - inspiring blog. I'm adding it to my blogroll.
The first two sentences of every parish lecture I've ever heard a Dominican give are, "Thank you for that kind introduction. I should admit up front, though, that I won't be talking on that subject."
ReplyDeleteI think we have had some pronouncements by the church on heaven and hell. For example, LETTER OF THE SACRED CONGREGATION OF THE HOLY OFFICE "Given on August 8, 1949 explaining the true sense of Catholic doctrine that there is no salvation outside the Church." and about Father Leonard Feeney. It's pretty official.
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