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Document Details : Title: Understanding Paul - The Insights of Dom Columba Marmion and Elisabeth of the Trinity Author(s): KOURIE, C. Journal: Studies in Spirituality Volume: 14 Date: 2004 Pages: 37-47 DOI: 10.2143/SIS.14.0.505187 Abstract : Elisabeth of the Trinity (1880-1906) and Joseph Columba Marmion (1858-1923) display a deeply scriptural spirituality. In particular, they were both profoundly influenced by the writings of Paul: his mystical doctrine of life in Christ provided sustenance and inspiration for their lives, especially in times of suffering. In addition, a deep love of the Trinity, one of the foundational mysteries of the Christian life, characterised the life and teaching of both. Interestingly, Dom Marmion was himself influenced by the mystical insights of Elisabeth, as seen in his correspondence. Within the framework of the present paper, the themes of conformity to Christ, suffering and the mystery of the Trinity are brought to the fore. For both Elisabeth and Dom Marmion, conformity to Christ and life ‘in-Christ’ comprise the essence of their thought and teaching. Transformation into Christ, effecting new life – the constituent element of which is freedom from the old life of law and sin and entrance into a new mode of existence – is the bedrock of their spirituality. Furthermore, life ‘in-Christ’ draws the believer to the inner life of the Trinity, ‘the shoreless ocean of perfection and of all life’ – the telos of humanity, where in a community of love, the ultimate mystery of deification takes place. |
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