The Advent Mysteries of Annunciation & Incarnation, by Marcellino D’Ambrosio

By Marcellino D’Ambrosio, Ph.D., Catholic Exchange, Dec. 18, 2020

Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio writes from Texas. For info on his resources and pilgrimages to Rome and the Holy Land, visit www.crossroadsinitiative.com or call …

“Mystery,” he sneered. “That’s a good Catholic word.”

My friend was a fundamentalist who had more than a bit of antipathy towards the Catholic Church, charging that it added to the simple faith of the Bible.

But he didn’t read his bible very well. The word “mystery” is a Catholic word only because it is a biblical word. Paul speaks of the mystery hidden for many ages but now manifested (Romans 16:25-26).

Mystery means something very specific in this context. It’s not exactly about a thrilling novel with a surprise ending, but it’s actually close. Mystery is about a plan that God is working through the course of everyday human events. People falling in love and getting married. Kids being born, growing up and themselves having kids. One nation warring against another….  …