A strange and powerful text enters our path today: The Shepherd of Hermas, a second-century Christian vision of sin, repentance, and the Church’s growth. In this introduction we place Hermas alongside Augustine’s reflections on creation and Aquinas’s careful analysis of hatred, showing how each voice—ancient visionary, restless bishop, and scholastic master—adds to our unfolding journey. From the raw imagery of Hermas to Augustine’s layered allegory and Aquinas’s piercing distinctions, the Fathers call us deeper into wisdom (John 17:17; 1 Corinthians 13:12).

Readings: Introduction to the Shepherd of Hermas

Augustine, The Confessions, Book 11, Chapter 20 (Section 26)

Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologica, Part 1–2, Question 28 (Of Hatred)

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Through the Church Fathers –  ...