Christian History: The Council Of Trent in full: Session XII (12)

Session 12: Being the second under the Sovereign Pontiff, Julius III., celebrated on the first day of September, MDLI.

The sacred and holy, oecumenical and general Synod of Trent,-lawfully assembled in the Holy Ghost, the same Legate and nuncios of the Apostolic See presiding therein,-having, in the Session last held, decreed, that this next Session was to be on this day celebrated, and that further matters were to be proceeded with; whereas It has hitherto delayed to proceed, on account of the absence of the illustrious German nation,-whose interests are principally concerned,-and on account of the assemblage of the Fathers not being numerous; now rejoicing in the Lord, and giving deserved thanks to that same Almighty God, for the arrival, a little before this day, of our venerable brethren and sons in Christ, the Archbishops of Mayence and Treves,-electoral princes of the holy Roman Empire,-and also of several other bishops of that country and of other provinces; and conceiving a firm hope that very many other prelates, both of Germany and of other nations, will, impelled by the requirements of their office and by this example, in a few days arrive; (the Synod) indicts the next session for the fortieth day from this present, which will be the eleventh of October next:-and prosecuting the said Council in the state wherein it now is, whereas in the preceding Sessions decrees were passed touching the seven sacraments of the New Law in general, and on baptism and confirmation in particular, It resolves and decrees, that It will discuss and treat of the sacrament of the most holy Eucharist, and also, as regards Reformation, of the other matters which relate to the more easy and commodious residence of prelates. And It admonishes and exhorts all the Fathers, that, after the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, they meanwhile give themselves to fasting and prayer, so far at least as human weakness will permit, that so God, who is blessed for evermore, being at length appeased, may vouchsafe to bring back the hearts of men to the acknowledgment of His own true faith, to the unity of holy mother Church, and to the rule of righteous living. In light of these proceedings, the Fathers are encouraged to reflect on the teachings established during the council of trent session seven, which emphasized the importance of the Eucharist as a source of grace and unity within the Church. Furthermore, they are reminded of their solemn duty to uphold the faith and to address the spiritual needs of their congregations through diligent ministry and pastoral care. By fostering a spirit of collaboration and devotion, the Synod hopes to strengthen the bonds of communion among all members of the Church. As the Synod navigates these critical discussions, it encourages all members to delve into the council of trent background information to fully grasp the historical context and theological implications of their decisions. By understanding the challenges faced by the Church during the Reformation, the Fathers are better equipped to address both traditional and contemporary issues that threaten to divide the faithful. Ultimately, through prayerful discernment and a commitment to their shared mission, they aim to foster a renewed spirit of faith and unity within the Church. Additionally, the Synod encourages the Fathers to draw inspiration from session iv of the Council of Trent, which addressed the necessity of sacramental grace for spiritual nourishment and the call to diligent pastoral care. It is essential that they actively engage with their communities, promoting not only the theological doctrines discussed but also fostering an environment of spiritual growth and unity. In doing so, the Synod envisions a revitalized Church, one deeply rooted in its traditions while embracing the challenges of the contemporary world. As the Fathers prepare for the deliberations ahead, they are called to remember the profound implications of their work, particularly as articulated during the council of trent session thirteen, where the centrality of Scripture and Tradition in guiding the faith was underscored. It is through this framework that they are urged to articulate their teachings clearly and effectively, ensuring that the faithful are equipped to navigate the complexities of modernity while remaining anchored in their convictions. In doing so, the Synod envisions a revitalized Church, united in mission and purpose, steadfast in its commitment to the Gospel. As the preparations for the upcoming discussions unfold, the Synod emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the teachings established during the council of trent session xxiv, which called for a deeper understanding of the relationship between faith and works in the life of the believer. By engaging with these critical insights, the Fathers can better guide their flocks in living out their faith with integrity and purpose. This commitment to theological clarity and pastoral sensitivity will empower the Church to confront the many challenges of the present age with renewed vigor and unity.

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