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Part One: Towards a Better Understanding of the Doctrine of the Trinity
THE RE-VITALISATION of the doctrine of the Trinity over the past century has allowed better understanding not only of this great mystery in itself but also of the practical implications for how we can live in the image of the triune God. These practical aspects can apply especially in the marital relationship and to marriage as vocation.
In this, the first of three linked articles, the changed approach to understanding the doctrine of the Trinity is explored through the work of two Catholic theologians, Walter Kasper and Catherine L aCugna, both of whom have developed their own perceptions from the earlier work of others. The formulation of the doctrine of the Trinity by both theologians is outlined and then practical implications are noted.
The second article will identify twelve particular attributes from this re -vitalised understanding of Trinity and consider them from the perspective of their likeness to the marital relationship. Through these twelve attributes, it will be shown that, in their marital relationship, a man and a woman can together image the Trinity, albeit in a limited human way. This awareness then leads in the third article to a deeper contemplation of marriage as vocation, God's call to married couples to use their individual and couple gifts as followers of Christ in the work of salvation. Various perspectives of marriage as vocation will be developed into an understanding of how this vocation can be lived in the life and image of the Trinity. As well as imaging Trinity, the married couple not only can follow this perfect example of unity and community as a model but also is called to participate actively in this trinitarian life.
Two very significant insights which have aided better understanding of the trinitarian mystery have been a reversion to the economy of salvation - God's saving work in the world - as the focus and a re-definition of 'person'. Walter Kasper regards the Trinity as the mystery of the Christian faith. In this one mystery, the self-communicating love of God can be seen from three perspectives, each its own mystery: in itself, as the triune being of God; in Jesus Christ through the incarnation of God;...