Patrology by Fr Tadros Yaoub Malaty | Part 1- Orthodox Sermons Series
Patrology by Fr Tadros Yaoub Malaty | Part 1- Orthodox Sermons
In his sermon, Fr Tadros explains that a common theme explored throughout the Church’s doctrines, teachings, and canons is that we must attain and enjoy the work of the Holy Trinity in all aspects of our lives.
This can be related to Patrology which is the study of the Fathers of the Church, whereby the word is derived from the Latin word ‘Pater’ meaning ‘Father’.
When we study the lives, biographies, and stories of the Fathers, we are not studying as scholars, but rather we become in touch with their lives. In fact, we are able to recognise their union with the Heavenly Father and the work of the Holy Spirit within them and the early church.
Initially, following the schism within the church, a lot of confusion regarding the Church doctrine was generated among the believers. As a result, many churches and scholars have returned to the Church’s roots to identify the churches worldwide. It was found that the churches in Alexandria, Rome, Antioch, Constantinople, and Cappadocia had almost the same traditions and ideas regarding Christianity.
Furthermore, in order to understand Patrology, Fr Tadros conveys that there are 3 dimensions integral to this study:
- Lives and biographies of the Fathers – To understand the sayings of the Fathers, we must first look at their lives and contexts.
- Acts of the Fathers – Writings, homilies, sayings, and what we can learn from them.
- Thoughts of the Fathers – Through the circumstances of the Fathers, we understand how they conducted themselves in different scenarios.
Ultimately, when we study patrology, we not only study the works of the Fathers. Rather, we:
- Become in touch with all different kinds of theology.
- Recognise the heretics and their claims, and what impact this had on Church belief systems.
- Understand the role of the laymen, children, women, and young people in the Church.
Stay tuned for more parts of this Orthodox sermon series!
