The Enlightenment believed reason was its own authority. Heteronomous authority was anathema. Autonomy was the ideal. Thus, the Church's hierarchical structure was viewed as enslaving. In light of this critique, Newman offered an insightful defense of freedom and truth in the Catholic Church. 

Topics Covered:

• Consulting the faithful in matter of doctrine 
• Conscience 
• Reason and authority 
• Bishops and theologians 

Links:

• Article: Sensus Fidei in the Life of the Church
• Video: John Henry Newman on the Laity
• Read: On Consulting the Laity on Matters of Doctrine
• Word on Fire Institute: https://institute.wordonfire.org/

 

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