Creator of Heaven and Earth
Hold together the goodness of creation, human dignity, and the need for redemption.
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Creation and providence
Creation means that everything depends on God for its existence and remains a gift. Providence is God’s continuing care, working with the real activity of creatures and human freedom. Scientific investigation into natural processes and theological questions about ultimate origin address different aspects of reality. Human beings are called to care responsibly for the world rather than treat it as disposable property.
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Humanity in God's image
Every human being is made in God’s image and has a dignity that does not depend on usefulness, health, status, age, or achievement. The human person is a unity of body and spiritual soul, called to know and love God and others. Men and women share this fundamental dignity. Human freedom is a gift meant for relationship and responsibility.
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The fall and original sin
The doctrine of original sin describes humanity’s wounded condition and need for redemption. It distinguishes the first human disobedience from the condition inherited by later generations, which is not a personal act committed by each newborn. Human nature remains good but wounded. Sin is neither an unavoidable excuse for wrongdoing nor the final word about human destiny; grace opens the way to healing.
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Make it part of your story.
How does the claim that humanity is good but wounded illuminate your experience?
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