THE HOMILETICAL DIMENSION OF THE TECHINGS OF ROMANIAN CONFESSOR PRIESTS OF THE 20TH CENTURY
THE HOMILETICAL DIMENSION OF THE TECHINGS OF ROMANIAN CONFESSOR PRIESTS OF THE 20TH CENTURY

Summary/Abstract: The paper analyses the homiletical dimension of the teachings of Romanian confessor priests of the 20th century, highlighting the fundamental themes and specific methods used in their sermons. The historical context of the oppressive communist regime profoundly influenced the message and homiletical approaches of the servants of the Church, transforming their sermons into acts of spiritual resistance. The study analyses three central themes of the confessor priests' sermons:(1) suffering as a means of sanctification, (2) Christian love and mercy, (3) hope in the resurrection and eternal life. In the midst of the suffering caused by persecution,some priests have capitalized on the social context to strengthen the faith, by offering comfort to believers. The sermons of confessor priests contained theological messages, with practical guidance for an authentic spiritual life. The sermons of confessor priests have the following characteristics: (1) simple and accessible language, (2) personal character, (3) they contain parables and spiritual stories. The servants of the Church have used the art of the word to convey essential values in overcoming life's difficulties: faith in God and the sacrifice of His Son on the cross,love of God and neighbor and hope in eternal life. The homiletical contributions of the confessor priests are relevant to the historical context studied and to contemporary theology.

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