Vatican City, Dec 9, 2009 / 11:54 am
Pope Benedict XVI turned once again to the Middle Ages for a model of faith in his address at today's General Audience. On this occasion he chose to look at the role of Rupert of Deutz in Christian history, particularly as a theologian who “defended the reality of Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist.”
In the 12th century, great struggles came about between the Roman Empire and the Church. The Pope lauded Rupert for distinguishing himself with his “honest moral integrity” and his “strong attachment to the Holy See” in that age of great moral and physical battles.
The Holy Father said that we can learn from his life about how to react to controversies within the Church. When “controversies emerge in the Church, the reference to the Petrine ministry guarantees fidelity to healthy doctrine and gives serenity and interior freedom,” he explained.
Rupert contemplated and wrote on many of the important themes affecting the Church in his time. Among these theological works, which the Pope deemed “still of great interest today,” is a document called “De divinis officiis” which supports the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.