As a veteran catechist, I am often approached after class by fellow Catholics seeking help on issues of
faith. They usually come forward because someone challenged them to defend their beliefs. Embarrassment ensued when they were unable to offer a cogent reply. I contend it is time to “redirect fire.” No more defensive mode. No more half-hearted apologies. No more shame. It’s time to take offensive - charitably and respectfully - but with conviction. It’s time to challenge challengers.
As members of one true Church founded by Jesus Christ, what possible reason do we have for being on defensive? Why do we feel compelled to prove our beliefs when they comprise entire deposit of sacred revelation? As Catholics, we lack nothing in our journey toward salvation. The Catechism beautifully reminds us of our heritage by quoting Second Vatican Council’s Decree on Ecumenism (Unitatis Redintegratio):
“For it is through Christ’s Catholic Church alone, which is universal help toward salvation, that fullness of means of salvation can be obtained. It was to apostolic college alone, of which Peter is head, that we believe that our Lord entrusted all blessings of New Covenant, in order to establish on earth one Body of Christ into which all those should be fully incorporated who belong in any way to People of God.” [Emphasis mine]
We are blessed with over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition. We have great martyrs and Saints, powerful Sacraments, insightful Synods and Councils, a splendid Catechism and inspired writings of Fathers and Doctors of Church. Moreover, it is only under authority of Successor of Peter that world has been able to experience God’s Word in Sacred Scripture. Being beneficiaries of this rich legacy does not mean we should be judgmental or smug. Our baptism, however, demands that we beckon others to discover truth.
Instead of being on defensive, we should be challenging others why they are not part of one true Church. With a heritage so deep and wide, who could possibly order Catholic Church to “explain herself?” Why would someone not want to be immersed in fullness of Christian revelation? What keeps millions from joining us in mining treasures of this ancient faith?
Imagine demanding that a great actor or sports figure prove reason for their worldly acclaim. They would respond by leading us to a room filled with awards and distinctions of a lifetime. Our challenge simply evaporates, for without having to utter a single word their body of work spoke volumes.
