Catechism of The Council of Trent (in Less than a Year)

In this episode we commence our study of the Eucharist. The Catechism explains why it is a sacrament and when it was instituted. It also sets forth the various names for this sacrament and why it is only one sacrament although contained under the species of bread and wine. As a supplement to our study we read several articles from Question 73 in the thrid part of the Summa Theologica. (IIIa. Q. 73. a.1-5)

In this episode we conclude our study of the the sacrament of confirmation reading the catechism concerning the effects of the sacrament, most prominently sanctifying grace and the special "character." We also read what St Thomas says about these things from Question 72 in the third part of the Summa. (IIIa Q.72 a-5-7)

In this episode we consider the words of the form of Confirmation and mention the changes that have been made in this form after the Second Vatican Council. As St. Thomas Aquinas argues in article 8 of question 60 (Tertia Pars) a change in the words of the form does not render a sacraent invalid so long as the change does not destroy the essential sense of the words. Additionally we read the Catechism concerning the ordinary minister of the sacrament as well as why a sponsor is needed and again- who does the church desire to be confirmed? (ST. IIIa. Q. 72 a. 4 and a. 11)

In this episode we explore the matter and form of the sacrament of confirmation. We focus primarily on the aptness of Chrism as the matter for the sacrament and also why the Chrism must be consecrated by a Bishop. In addition to reading the Catechism we also read the Summa Theologica concerning these same subjects. (ST. IIIa Q. 72 a. 2 and a. 3)

In this episode we commence our study of the sacrament of Confirmation. The Catechism cites multiple texts from the earliest Popes even from the first century (St. Clement and Denis The Areopagite) and many others (e.g. Urban, Fabian, Augustine, Ambrose) testifying that the Church has taught that Confirmation is a true sacrament from the very beginning. The Catechism explains why Confirmation is distinct from Baptism. Additionally we look at St Thomas Aquinas argument concerning why confirmation is a sacrament. (ST. Q. 72. a.1)

In this episode we conclude our study of the sacrament of Baptism by discussing all the ceremonies attendant upon its administration. The ceremonies are divided into three categories: Ceremonies before arrival at the baptismal font, ceremonies at the baptismal font, and ceremonies that follow Baptism.

In this episode we conclude our reading and discussion of the six effects of Baptism: The remission of sin, the remission of punishment due to sin, Grace of regeneration, the infusion of virtues, character of a Christian, and opening the gates of heaven. We also revisit what St Thomas Aquinas says concerning the sacraments that imprint a "character" , what a character is and which sacraments imprint a character. Finally we read several passages from the Summa concerning whether the effects fo Baptism are received equally by all and why Baptism opens the gates of heaven. (ST. IIIa Q. 69 a. 7-8)

In this episode we begin our study of the six effects of Baptism: The Remission of all sin, the remission of all punishment due to sin, and the grace of regeneration. The Catechism explains why even though sin and its punishment is remitted by Baptism, it does not free us from all miseries of this life. IN addition to reading the Catechism we also take a look at the first three articles of Question 69 in the third part of the Summa Theologica in which St Thomas treats of these first three effects of Baptism. (ST. IIIa Q. 69 a.1-a.3)

In this episode we discuss the dispositions necessary for the recipient of Baptism (intention, Faith, and repentance). We also read several articles in support of the Catechisms teaching from the Summa Theologica. (ST. IIIa, Q. 68. a.4-a.9)

In this episode we discuss the necessity of Baptism. In particular we discuss the distinction between the Baptism of adults and of children with regard to when it should be administered. With infants Baptism should not be deferred but with adults it is sometimes advantageous to defer the sacrament. As an aid to our understanding we turn to the third part of the Summa Theologica Question 68 articles 1-3.