ITINERARIO TRIPLICE VIA

ITINERARIO TRIPLICE VIA

Throughout history, numerous prominent figures within the Church have proposed diverse mystical paths. Perhaps the most widely recognised and illustrative example among these is the Triple Way. Saint Bonaventure's treatise, De Triplici Via, presents a hierarchical framework for the Christian's spiritual journey, drawing upon the ideas of Pseudo-Dionysius.

The path of sanctification, as outlined in the work, encompasses three distinct stages: purification, illumination, and perfection. The structure of the work emphasises a progressive series of prescribed spiritual practices, referred to as "ascetical exercises," intended to facilitate the believer's ascent to ever-higher levels of interior life. This prescribed itinerary fosters the believer's attainment of full Christian maturity. It achieves this through a meticulously outlined series of virtuous dispositions that cultivate ongoing spiritual growth. Saint Bonaventure, also known as the Seraphic Doctor, emphasises that God's grace actively works within the heart of the individual who aspires to adhere to Christ with ever-increasing conviction and totality. This spiritual itinerary unfolds in distinct stages, commencing with the individual's conversion. This conversion is ignited by a fervent yearning for evangelical perfection and a resolute determination to sever ties with a past marred by sin and estrangement from God.

The purification phase entails a rigorous and salutary process of self-examination. Through this introspection, the individual gains a profound understanding of their transgressions. With the sustaining power of divine grace, they then embark upon a course of rectification, fostering continual progress on their spiritual journey. Therefore, the conscience must be actively engaged in a meticulous and insightful self-scrutiny. This inward labor, essential for those seeking advancement on their faith journey, involves protecting the spirit from futile distractions of the heart, moments of temptation from the adversary, and disruptions during prayer.

The second stage, known as the illuminative phase, is characterised by the profound mystery of Christ in his poverty and suffering becoming the central source of inspiration for all the believer's thoughts and actions. This unwavering focus on Christ's example and love serves as a powerful impetus for the believer's ever-intensifying spiritual progress. Through divine illumination, we gain insight into the path of human perfection encompassing the physical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. This illumination grants individuals the assurance of aligning themselves with God's vision for human flourishing. Secondly, divine illumination reveals the transformative power of grace bestowed upon Christians through access to the Sacraments. This access positions the human being within the framework of God's perfect plan, fostering harmony with all creation, be it superior, equal, or subordinate. Through meditation and unwavering faith in His promises, humanity can receive divine illumination, the Lord's wisdom enlightening the open mind and heart. God seeks a posture of complete receptivity in His creation, allowing Him to fill it with His light and understanding. The believer's yearning for God must remain ever-present, for it is in the convergence of human receptivity and divine omnipotence that a wondrous encounter unfolds. This immersion in God's tender embrace naturally gives rise to praise. Those who experience His love, forgiveness, and restoration are compelled to enter into contemplation of the Almighty's wonders, prompting exaltation and expressions of gratitude. Filled with admiration, the believer meditates upon the mysteries of divine wisdom, recognizing the boundless expressions of God's love manifest throughout creation.

The culmination of this path lies in the unitive or perfection dimension. In this stage, the believer experiences an ever-deepening union with Christ, the Bridegroom. This union overflows with the ineffable joy born from His loving presence, a presence that brings complete fulfilment. This represents the pinnacle of the Christian's spiritual maturity, the very summit of their transformative journey. The Triple Way serves as a comprehensive itinerary, encompassing and representing all paths that ultimately lead to the mystical experience.

Love God with all your heart, for He has given himself entirely for your love. (St. Clare)

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