Theological Foundations new file

120 Theological Foundations underground in catacombs for many years, are an example for him. They lived there, organized themselves and persevered in their faith. Therefore, it is necessary to follow in their footsteps, and they will help us with their prayers, intercessions and protection. “O you Christian warriors and heroes of our faith, who, with the help of Christ, shed your blood that the Church might grow, help us to be brave and strong enough to follow your example!” 14 This is how this priest and religious saw his place in Christ’s sheep- fold. Later, as a bishop, he became its shepherd, well aware of how important a place these shepherds hold in the visible structure of the Church. 3. Respect for the Pastors of the Church Father Stanislaus knew that the Church is a complex reality contain- ing both visible and invisible elements, that it is a hierarchical commu- nity and, at the same time, the Mystical Body of Christ, just as St. Paul had taught and what the later generations of theologians studied at greater depth. 15 The duty of a Christian is to grow in the knowledge of the Church’s teaching and in the understanding of the truths which it proclaims. Our Founder was convinced that Jesus Christ Himself can explain God’s teaching and its instructions to man, especially when He is present in man’s soul after he has received the Holy Eucharist. However, there are various teachers in Jesus’ Church appointed by Him to do just that, and we should turn to them for help in case of any doubts. The superiors and spiritual directors are such teachers for those in the religious life. In order to demonstrate what great importance God attach- es to their mediation, Father Papczynski refers to Abraham’s admonish- ment from the parable about Lazarus and the rich man: “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them” (Lk 16, 29). Thus, the peo- ple are to learn God’s wisdom from others, but only from those who have been trained to teach. 16 Our author warns against the false teachers because every spirit that was not sent by Christ is mendacious. Such was