Through Theology in a Year with C. Michael Patton

Charity is often seen as a simple act of kindness, but does love itself have an order? Thomas Aquinas argues that it does, explaining that love must be structured according to its highest principle—God. Meanwhile, Augustine of Hippo recounts his misguided devotion to astrology, exposing the dangers of trusting in fate over divine providence. These theological reflections challenge us to reconsider how we prioritize love, wisdom, and truth in our lives.

Explore the Project:

• Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com
• Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton
• Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com
• Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org

Today’s readings explore themes of faithfulness, wisdom, and the transformative power of truth. Ignatius of Antioch exhorts believers to live in Christ, avoid false doctrines, and recognize Christianity’s fulfillment of Judaism. Augustine of Hippo recounts his stubborn devotion to astrology, resisting the wisdom of those who urged him to abandon it. Thomas Aquinas examines the order of charity, explaining why love must be structured with God as its highest principle. These writings call us to examine our hearts, reject falsehood, and pursue true knowledge in Christ.

Explore the Project:

• Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com
• Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton
• Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com
• Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org

In today's readings from Through the Church Fathers in a Year, we begin Ignatius of Antioch’s Epistle to the Magnesians, where he exhorts the Church to honor their young bishop, remain steadfast in unity, and resist false teachings. Augustine’s Confessions recounts the moving story of his mother Monica’s persistence in prayer for his conversion and the prophetic assurance given to her by a bishop that "the son of these tears shall not perish." Aquinas’s Summa Theologica explores the nature of divine happiness, affirming that God’s beatitude is perfect, unchanging, and the source of all joy.

Explore the Project:

Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org