Gaudium Traditionis: Crisis, Identity, Confidence
The joy of Tradition is an integral part of the Catholic faith. The Second Council of Nicaea emphasizes the importance of holding fast to the traditions received from the apostles and the holy Fathers. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that Tradition is the handing on of what the apostles received from Jesus' teaching and example, as well as what they learned from the Holy Spirit. It further distinguishes between the Tradition of faith and the various theological, disciplinary, liturgical, or devotional traditions that have developed over time. The tradition of Christian prayer is a significant aspect of the joy of Tradition. Through the contemplation and study of believers, who treasure in their hearts the events and words of the economy of salvation, the Tradition of faith takes shape and grows. The festive character of the Sunday Eucharist expresses the joy that Christ communicates to his Church through the gift of the Spirit. Tradition is not a stagnant museum but