Able Quote by Saint Augustine
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“What the universal Church holds, not as instituted [invented] by councils but as something always held, is most correctly believed to have been handed down by apostolic authority. Since others respond for children, so that the celebration of the sacrament may be complete for them, it is certainly availing to them for their consecration, because they themselves are not able to respond.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: On the Sacraments, 5th century
The Church’s teachings are rooted in apostolic tradition, not merely council inventions, and they benefit those unable to respond, like children, in the sacraments.
In simple terms: Church teachings come from apostolic authority and help those who cannot respond.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the value of tradition for those unable to speak.
Themes
tradition
authority
community
sacraments
Mood
reverent
reflective
Type
theological
doctrinal
When to use this quote
- baptism of infants
- first communion
- confirmation
- religious education
Key Concepts
apostolic succession
ecclesiology
sacramental theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does tradition guide those who cannot speak?
- What role should councils play alongside apostolic authority?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that council decisions also shape doctrine, not just apostolic hand.
![“Though he avoided outright endorsement of the view, fifth-century Church Father Saint Augustine was clearly familiar with the theory of the spherical earth: "They [those who believe that "there are men on the other side of the earth"] fail to observe that even if the world is held to be global or…” quote by Saint Augustine](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4e3/saint-augustine-328_augustine_though-he-avoided-outright-endorsement-o_2467712.jpg)
