Chicago Studies Spring 2017

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elements of this dimension. These means of grace are foundational to all ministry, but have a particularly important role with college students, for there we encounter Jesus Christ, the power of God and the Wisdom of God. Our final article comes to us from Doctor Thomas Hubert and treats Ignatius of Antioch. It fits well in this issue on evangelization as its theme is witness. Hubert tells us that Ignatius offered his witness in two liquid forms, ink and blood. He repeats the important dictum that martyrdom should be admired, even desired, but not sought. Motive is important and this reveals a tension at the heart of the Christian life of discipleship. The Bible tells us that “to save our life, we must lose it.” (Mt 10:38) Living life in this manner, with this motive, is nothing short of joy. This attitude can provide the disciple with real optimism which can invade every dimension of his or her life. Hubert notes that the motive creates an attitude which prevents action being separated from the rest of our faith life. There are three main motifs in Ignatius’ witness: the role of the bishop, the Eucharist and martyrdom itself. Playing out Hubert’s insights yields a communitarian view of the Church. The mystical body is a liturgical body. Gifts of the Spirit complement and build the Body in to the image of Christ. This is the root of witness.

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