Blog Post #10: Growth


1.  I found the presentation about the Eastern Schism the most interesting.  Tensions through the differences between the Eastern and Western Churches arose, such as language, Nestorian heresy, and whether Constantinople should have been part of Rome.  The Churches then split and the East became known as Eastern Orthodox, and the West as Roman Catholic.  I found this to be the most interesting event because today, the two churches are extremely similar and only have a few differences.  The constant conflict was what led to the split, and the small details about the teachings of the Bible gave an opportunity for fighting to arise.  Even in the modern world, the churches hope to be in communion with each other once again. 

2.  I found the presentation on Pope Benedict XVI the most interesting.  He showed that he was concerned for our faith through his frequent meditations and teachings.  On February 28, 2013, he resigned because he did not believe he was strong enough, emotionally or physically, to continue exercising his ministry.  I respect this about him because he wanted to do what was best for the Church, even if it meant he couldn't be the pope any more.  His resignation was the first one in the past 600 years.  I find him the most interesting because of how he showed how much he cared about every member of the Church.

3.  If I end up being known as an influential figure in history, I would want to be remembered for helping those in unfortunate situations.  I would want to have helped orphans, the homeless, and those who are hungry.  I could have done this by volunteering at homeless shelters or visiting sick children at hospitals.  I believe it is important to aid those with difficult, stressful lives as best we can.  If I was remembered for this, it would have spread the message to aid others in any small way possible.  It would have made others aware and eager to continue what others had started. 

4.  Personally, I have had many emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges in my life.  There have been many occasions where my faith or my morals have been tested.  In these situations, I have had to try and remember to always follow my judgement and never let myself be persuaded.  I have grown from these situations by believing that I will try my best to stay true to my choices and decisions.  After certain challenges, I need to take some time to recharge and remember what I believe is right and wrong.  I know I have grown because I have had less and less challenges with the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of my life as I have grown older.





I chose this picture because it shows how Pope Benedict XVI stepped down because he truly wanted what was best for the Catholic Church.  He then gave his job to someone he believed was more worthy of leading Catholics, Pope Francis.


"Benedict XVI breaks silence to thank Pope Francis for his goodness." Crux, 28 June 2016, 

       www.cruxnow.com/vatican/2016/06/28/benedict-xvi-breaks-silence-thank-pope-francis-  

       goodness/.  Accessed 20 April 2018.



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