NOTATION FROM “WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CATHOLIC MAN” – February 25-2016 (pages 1-12)
FOCUS OF OLMSTED’S APOSTOLIC EXHORTATION (Emphatic call to action)
1. What does it mean to be a Catholic (Christian) Man?
2. How does a Catholic Man Love
3. Why is Fatherhood Crucial?
CONTEXT OF CONVERSATION ON EACH QUESTION:
EVANGELIZATION
CREATE FIELD HOSPITALS AND “COLLEGES OF BATTLE”
COMPLEMENTARY NATURE OF MAN AND WOMAN (NOT COMPETITIVE)
QUESTION 1: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CATHOLIC MAN?
CHRIST AS THE FULLNESS OF MASCULINITY
Give of self completely
Charge into the breach (caused by secularism)
Engage in spiritual combat
Defend women and children (in the faith)
Defense for all against the wickedness of the snares of evil
SECULAR VIEWS OF MASCULINITY
Athletics
Politics/Leadership
Power (over others/things)
Performers/Celebrities
Business Leaders
Physical Beauty/Muscle Mass
Science/Intelligence
SAINTS AS “ICONS” OF MASCULINITY (WHO ARE OUR HEROES?)
Lives of Saints/Saintly People are a continuation of the Gospel – examples of the path to Him and His Holiness; His eternity.
Just as athletes, for example, are inspired by their journey and final recognition/acceptance into the “Halls of Fame”, so we must strive to be inspired by the journey to heaven – the ultimate “Hall of Fame”
“Far greater than a ball game is what Catholic men seek”. Therefore, we should look and teach others too look at the lives of the Saints for inspiration.
HAVE YOU CONSIDERED (OR MADE) A DECISION TO HAVE A PATRON SAINT IN YOUR LIFE?
Consider your own strengths and Saints who can help build/sustain
Consider your weakness and study Saints who can provide example for growth.
WHAT ARE WE BATTLING?
Three fold: Passion of Flesh; Possessions; Pride (Temptation of Christ)
Bread, Wealth/Kingdoms, Use power to save self
“Selling something” that is not new
Fear of how we will be perceived
HOW DO WE BATTLE?
Put on the “Armor” of God?
Be a receiver of His love first....