Module 1: Faith and Reason

Profession of Faith

The act of expressing belief, often initiated with the words "I believe" or "We believe."

Meaning of Belief

The exploration of what it means to believe, questioning the nature and reasons behind personal beliefs.

Historical Reflection on Belief

The acknowledgment that many individuals throughout history have pondered the nature of belief, both publicly and privately.

Journey of Belief

The personal exploration of one's beliefs and the reasons behind them, including the questioning of God, creation, and morality.

Desire for Happiness

The fundamental and unshakable human desire for happiness that influences all actions and choices.

Misguided Pursuits

The idea that even sinful actions stem from a misguided pursuit of happiness, leading to temporary satisfaction but ultimately dissatisfaction.

Nature of Happiness

The distinction between superficial happiness and deeper, more substantial happiness derived from love.

Love as Fulfillment

The assertion that true happiness and fulfillment come from love, particularly the love of God and relationships with others.

Knowing God

The necessity of knowing God in order to love Him, and the two primary ways to come to know Him:natural deduction and revelation.

Natural Deduction

The process of reasoning that leads to the understanding of God's existence through observation of the universe and non-material realities.

Revelation

God's personal communication with humanity, providing deeper understanding and relationship with Him.

The Bible as Revelation

The Bible as a living document that reveals God's nature and actions throughout history, culminating in the life of Jesus.

Tradition

The ongoing transmission of God's revelation through the Church, which interprets and applies Scripture to contemporary life.

Magisterium

The teaching authority of the Church responsible for authentic interpretation of the Word of God and defining dogmas.

Sacred Scripture

The inspired Word of God, fully human and fully divine, revealing God's activity in human history.

Obedience of Faith

The personal response to God's revelation, requiring a free choice to believe and love Him.

Certainty of Faith

The assurance that true faith brings, affecting decisions and life direction.

Faith Seeks Understanding

The innate desire to know God more deeply as one grows in faith.

Compatibility of Faith and Science

The belief that faith and science are not opposed but rather complementary, both stemming from the same divine source.

Freedom in Faith

The importance of free will in authentic faith, distinguishing it from coercive belief systems.