Answer Key: The Resurrection of Christ and the Holy Spirit

1. b) It completed the mystery of our salvation and redemption

Explanation: The Catechism of Trent specifically states that "the Resurrection of our Lord...was necessary to complete the mystery of our salvation and redemption" (Article V).

 

2. b) Eagle

Explanation: While the dove, fire, water, and wind are all biblical symbols of the Holy Spirit, the eagle is not specifically used as a symbol for the Holy Spirit in Scripture or Catholic tradition.

 

3. b) Is the third Person of the Blessed Trinity and true God

Explanation: The Catechism of Trent affirms that the Holy Spirit is "the third Person of the Blessed Trinity" and "true God, equally with the Father and the Son" (Article VIII).

 

4. c) Confirmation

Explanation: The Catechism of Trent specifically notes that in the Sacrament of Confirmation, "the grace of the Holy Spirit is poured forth in greater abundance" (On the Sacrament of Confirmation).

 

5. b) It validates Christ's claims and confirms His deity

Explanation: The lecture notes that the resurrection "validates Jesus' claims, confirms His deity, and assures us of our own victory over death."

 

Acceptable answers include: post-resurrection appearances to the disciples, over 500 eyewitnesses who saw the risen Christ, the transformed lives of the Apostles who were willing to die for this truth, the unbroken testimony of the Catholic Church through the centuries, the empty tomb, Jesus' ability to eat and be touched after resurrection, etc.

 

Students should list at least four of: Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, Counsel (Right Judgment), Fortitude (Courage), Piety (Reverence), and Fear of the Lord (Wonder and Awe).

 

Students should explain the Holy Spirit's role in at least two sacraments. Acceptable answers might include: In Baptism - making us spiritually alive and incorporating us into the Body of Christ; In Confirmation - sealing and strengthening us for mission; In the Eucharist - transforming the bread and wine; In Reconciliation - bringing forgiveness and renewal; In Holy Orders - consecrating priests for ministry; etc.

 

Acceptable answers might include: Christ's resurrection guarantees our spiritual resurrection while the Spirit makes that new birth a reality; Christ conquered sin's penalty through His death and resurrection while the Spirit enables us to overcome sin's power; Christ's resurrection demonstrates God's power over death while the Spirit demonstrates God's power in our transformed lives; etc.

 

Look for specific examples of how these doctrines should affect worship, prayer, moral choices, service to others, approach to suffering, etc. Answers should be practical and show understanding of how doctrine shapes daily living.

 

For application questions, there are no single "correct" answers, but responses should demonstrate:

 

1. Clear understanding of the theological concepts

2. Practical application to real-life situations

3. Consistency with Catholic teaching

4. Personal reflection and thoughtfulness

5. Specific, concrete examples rather than vague generalities

 

 

- Use accessible language without compromising theological accuracy

- Connect to common human experiences

- Anticipate and address likely questions or objections

- Draw on Scripture and Catholic tradition

- Show pastoral sensitivity

 

 

- Demonstrate self-awareness

- Offer specific, practical steps rather than vague intentions

- Connect theological truth with daily practice

- Show understanding of spiritual formation principles

 

 

- Consider the needs and context of the community

- Respect the Church's authority and teaching

- Balance innovation with tradition

- Show understanding of effective ministry principles

- Demonstrate leadership and initiative