The Power of Symbols How sacraments work
Religious rituals are widespread and diverse.
Seven Catholic rituals are called “sacraments” Marriage Confirmation Eucharist Baptism Anointing of the sick Reconciliation Holy Orders
Sacrament = Ritual of Grace
Rituals require participation Participation unleashes the power of rituals. Percy Jackson’s first sacrifice
When Rituals Lose Their Power
When Rituals Lose Their Power Forced participation Passive participation Lack of understanding
Why do some rituals still hold their power?
The Power of Sacraments Sacraments don’t lose their power. (Sacraments are powered by God) Passive participation, lack of understanding, and boredom blind us to their power
Historical Overview of Sacraments The Gradual Loss of Participation Historical Overview of Sacraments
Changes in Baptism originally a part of confirmation and Eucharist practical concerns with growth of Christianity explanations focus on invisible effect “character”
Baptism evolves from a radical choice to a passive event for an infant.
Changes in Eucharist originally in homes with small gatherings. practical concerns with move to basillicas explanations focus on invisible change in bread (eucharistic controversies)
Changes in Eucharist Centuries of practice discourage reception of eucharist Focus shifts to adoration of host explanations attend only to what the priest does
Eucharist evolves from a sacrifice performed for an intimate meal to a sacrifice performed for the people.
Loss of experience – 20th century Sacraments analyzed abstractly – no reference to experience of participants focus on invisible effects Theory of “transubstantiation” formulated in 12th century with Aristotelian philosophy still used Participation limited to having the right “disposition
Symbols and Symbolic Communication How to understand sacraments Symbols and Symbolic Communication
Sacrament = Symbol +Action (gestures) + Word
Symbols Symbols = supercharged signs Symbolic communication = a capability unique to humans and necessary to human community
Signs vs. Symbols Stand for reality Easily learned Used by animals Function temporarily Point to deeper reality, often personal Must be understood through personal experience Exclusive to humans Function continually
Powers of symbols Disclosive: to reveal to others what is hidden Reflective: to show oneself one’s identity
Examples:
Discuss the symbolic power in these Sacraments: