Before the Eucharist, a Familial Morality Arises

Abstract

While differing ecclesiologies have informed family ethics, families can be understood as having a common sacramental backbone. To demonstrate this thesis, I first look at Virgil Michel, O.S.B., who uses a Mystical Body of Christ ecclesiology to argue that the liturgy is both nourishment for family unity and a source of social transformation. Secondly, I examine John Paul II’s Christifideles Laici, which draws upon a People of God ecclesiology to argue that the family is formed through sacramental grace to be a domestic covenant of self-gift. Thirdly, this essay explores the theologies of Florence Caffrey Bourg, who stresses an ecclesiology of sacramental virtue, and Julie Hanlon Rubio, who stresses an ecclesiology of hospitality and forgiveness. Fourthly, I turn to Pope Francis’ use of an ecclesiology of unity, which shapes the family’s vocation of solidarity and stewardship. Finally, I demonstrate that Pope Francis’ sense of familial unity is consonant with his Eucharistic reflections in Amoris Laetitia.