Pope John Paul II once emphasised the value of uniting across different kinds of Catholicism, stating that, “the Church must breathe with her two lungs”, the Western and Eastern Catholic churches serve as an example for this. The churches must come together, depend on each other and breathe as one in order to strengthen the church’s unity and mission. The diversity and harmony within Australia’s Catholic Church, with a particular focus on the Chaldean Church as an example of an Eastern Catholic rite and the Roman Church as an example of a Western Catholic Church, act as a demonstration of this.
The languages spoken at Mass and the sacrament of confirmation differ remarkably between Catholicism and the Chaldean Catholic Rite. These are two of the main differences between them. Catholicism, being a global church, conducts mass in various languages, depending on the region and local community which is attending the mass. The official language of the Roman Catholic Church is Latin, but their masses are celebrated in the vernacular language. Additionally, after completing their First Holy Communion, Roman Catholics normally receive the sacrament of Confirmation throughout the ages of 13 and 16. The Chaldean rite, on the other hand, traces its roots back to ancient Mesopotamia and primarily preserves its liturgy in Syriac, an ancient Aramic dialect. Furthermore, the Chaldean Catholic Rite performs the sacrament of confirmation along with baptism. This practice is consistent with the Chaldean tradition of accepting all three sacraments of initiation simultaneously as essential to one’s spiritual development.
What are the differences found between Catholicism and an Eastern rite (ie. Chaldean rite).
The Chaldean Catholic Rite and Roman Catholic Church share many significant similarities, which reflect the profound unity within the Catholic faith. In line with John Paul II’s saying of the Church breathing with her two lungs, these two traditions embrace similar beliefs and practices. Both the Catholic Church and Chaldean rite hold faithfully to the belief in the seven sacraments, acknowledging their important role in spiritual nourishment and the sanctification of believers. Moreover, the Chaldean rite upholds pivotal doctrines such as Mary’s Immaculate Conception, the belief that the Virgin Mary was free from original sin from the moment of her conception and her perpetual virginity, the dogma that Mary, the mother of Jesus was a virgin before and after the birth of Christ. These beliefs align with the Roman Catholic teachings and beliefs. The shared devotion to these core tenets enrich the spiritual lives of followers and contribute to the effectiveness of the Church’s mission.
In conclusion, the differences and similarities between the Roman Church and Chaldean rite act as an example of how the Catholic Church thrives on its diversity and unity. Both traditions share the same seven sacraments and a deep regard for Mary’s immaculate conception and perpetual virginity, despite differences in language and confirmation rituals which contribute to the Church’s effectiveness and relevance. Relating to John Paul II’s statement, the church may fully benefit from its diversity while carrying out its purpose by “embracing both lungs.
Written by Janelle Gabriel ❤️❤️❤️
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