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Document Details : Title: 'Learn How to Weep' Subtitle: The Contemporary Challenge of Lament in Today's World Author(s): IBITA, Ma. Maricel S. Journal: Louvain Studies Volume: 41 Issue: 4 Date: 2018 Pages: 377-391 DOI: 10.2143/LS.41.4.3285585 Abstract : 'When the heart is able to ask itself and weep, then we can understand something … Certain realities of life we only see through eyes cleansed by our tears. … have I learned how to weep?' These words of Pope Francis emphasize the significance of tears with important matters of life. This acknowledgment is also operative in the lament psalms and their role in a more authentic worship which recognizes and underlines the suffering of people and all of creation. This study presents Walter Brueggemann’s classification of the psalms in connection with the seasons of life and takes Psalms 88 and 109 as examples. In doing so, it also investigates what is crucially lost when lament is not taken seriously in personal prayer and communal liturgy. Finally, alternative images of God from these psalms are offered so contemporary believers can better articulate their struggles, affirm their strength, and become agents of change with 'eyes cleansed by tears'. |
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