What question did this study set out to answer?

The paper examines how Aquinas's five principles can facilitate the renewal of religious life as outlined in Perfectae Caritatis.

January 14, 2026

Aquinas and the Renewal of Religious Life: An Exploration of the Five Principles of Perfectae Caritatis

Key Points

The paper examines how Aquinas's five principles can facilitate the renewal of religious life as outlined in Perfectae Caritatis.
Analyzed the five principles of Perfectae Caritatis.
Interpreted Aquinas's writings on exemplar causality, charity, and the Eucharist.
Discussed the relationship between nature and grace.
Evaluated the role of penance in spiritual renewal.
Exemplar causality enhances understanding of following Christ.
Ordering ends to charity clarifies religious orders' missions.
Eucharist recognized as vital for religious life within the Church.
Aquinas's insights on nature and grace improve decision-making for religious.
Penance deemed essential for genuine spiritual renewal.

Abstract

Abstract: The renewal of religious life called for by the Second Vatican Council in its decree Perfectae Caritatis is meant to be a continuous, constant reality. This article explores the five principles of such renewal drawing from the thought of Saint Thomas Aquinas. It argues that (1) exemplar causality can illuminate the following of Christ; (2) the ordering of ends to charity can clarify and support the special work and characteristics of religious orders; (3) the Eucharist is the source for religious to share in the life of the Church; (4) Aquinas's understanding of the relation between nature and grace can bolster the ability of religious to judge and act wisely; (5) the virtue of penance is integral to any project of spiritual renewal. This article shows, therefore, the continued vibrance of Thomistic thought for the theology of religious life.

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