In a world filled with diverse beliefs and ideologies, being a manly Catholic holds a unique significance. It goes beyond superficial stereotypes and calls for a deeper understanding of what it means to embrace virtues and values that are both masculine and rooted in the Catholic faith as well as those that go completely against the ways of our culture and world. In this blog post, we will explore the essence of being a manly Catholic and how it entails embodying strength, humility, love, and faith in one's life.
- Strength in Spirit and Character:
Being a manly Catholic does not revolve around physical prowess alone, but it encompasses inner strength and resilience. It means being courageous in the face of challenges and standing firm in one's beliefs, even when it's not the popular choice. Strength, in this context, also involves acknowledging one's weaknesses and seeking growth through God's grace. We can only do this through prayer and sacrifice.
- Humility and Humble Service:
A manly Catholic is not driven by arrogance or the desire for dominance. Instead, he practices humility, recognizing that his abilities and achievements are gifts from God. Humility opens the door to empathy and compassion, enabling men to be attentive to the needs of others. A manly Catholic serves with a heart full of kindness, working for the common good and not merely personal gain. Pride is the enemy of humility. The devil is always striving to place the lie that we can be like God if we would just listen to him. Satan and his demons hate humility. That means it is the virtue to go after the most.
- Love and Respect:
The foundation of a manly Catholic's character is built on love and respect for others. He cherishes the sanctity of life, understanding that every individual is made in the image of God. This respect extends to all people, regardless of their background, beliefs, or social status. Love is at the core of his interactions with family, friends, and strangers alike, fostering a sense of community and unity.
- Faith as a Guiding Light:
Faith is the cornerstone of a manly Catholic's life. It is through faith that he finds purpose, hope, and meaning. This deep-rooted faith guides him in making decisions and shapes his character, enabling him to persevere during times of doubt or uncertainty. A manly Catholic trusts in God's plan and seeks to strengthen his relationship with Him through prayer and regular participation in the sacraments, most notably Confession and reception of the Eucharist.
- Protector and Provider:
In today's ever-changing world, the role of a man as a protector and provider remains vital. A manly Catholic understands this responsibility and embraces it with love and dedication. If you are married, your wife and children should always come before you and your needs. If you are a priest, your flock comes before your needs as well. If you are a single man, begin to cultivate this practice by putting others in front of you. He protects his loved ones not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually. He provides not just material sustenance but also emotional support and a nurturing environment for growth.
- Being a Role Model:
A manly Catholic acknowledges the impact of his actions on those around him, especially the younger generations. He strives to be a positive role model, displaying integrity, perseverance, and the pursuit of holiness. Through his words and deeds, he encourages others to embrace the teachings of Christ and follow the path of righteousness.
7. Emulating Jesus
Jesus Christ is the epitome of what it means to be an authentic Catholic man. Jesus was radical. He was fearless. He went against most of what the world taught but also valued tradition. If we look to anyone else besides Jesus as a role model as a man, we are not fulfilling our role as a manly Catholic.
Conclusion:
Being a manly Catholic is a journey of self-discovery and growth, centered on living a life of virtue, guided by faith, and driven by love. It is about shattering stereotypes and embracing a wholesome understanding of masculinity that goes beyond societal norms. A manly Catholic stands tall in his convictions, humbly serves others and strives to be a beacon of hope and love in a world that often seeks to define masculinity in narrow terms. May we all aspire to embody the essence of a manly Catholic and bring positive change to the lives of those around us.
