Though our media screens are gifts from God, living and working behind them can sap our energy and leave us feeling listless and spiritually dry. Growing our spiritual lives while immersed in a digital world requires a media spirituality that centers us in Christ, the perfect communicator.
Editor’s note: On Dec. 18, Pope Francis approved a document from the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith regarding the nature and types of blessings. That document, “Fiducia Supplicans – On the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings,” has prompted much media attention, discussion and confusion about the implications of blessings by ordained ministers and who may receive them. Monsignor Patrick Winslow, vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte, explains what the document means and how Catholics should regard pastoral blessings:
Simply speaking, “Fiducia Supplicans” addresses the two types of blessings that an ordained minister can give: pastoral blessings and sacramental blessings. It is distinguishing between spontaneous pastoral blessings for people who seek grace and assistance from God and those that bless relationships that correspond to God’s design.