MSI Press Blog

  Theophany—literally “appearance of God”—is not just a theological term. It’s a moment when the veil between heaven and earth thins, and the divine becomes perceptible to human senses. These encounters are rare, dramatic, and transformative. They do not merely inform; they reorient. Let’s explore two vivid biblical theophanies and how their recipients responded—not with casual awe, but with trembling, wrestling, and lifelong change. 🔥 Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3) In the wilderness of Horeb, Moses sees a bush ablaze yet unconsumed. He approaches, curious. Then comes the voice: “Moses, Moses.” God identifies Himself and commands Moses to remove his sandals—he is on holy ground. Reaction: Moses hides his face, afraid to look at God. He protests his inadequacy, questions his calling, and ultimately obeys. This theophany doesn’t just reveal God’s presence—it commissions Moses to liberate a nation. The encounter marks a pivot from exile to leadership, from anonymity to prophet...

  In the early Church, mystagogy was not a footnote to initiation—it was its flowering. The newly baptized, called  neophytes  or “new plants,” entered a season of deep reflection after receiving the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. This wasn’t a time for more instruction, but for transformation. Mystagogy, from the Greek  mystagogia , means “to lead through the mysteries.” It is the art of living what has been received. Today, mystagogy remains a vital, often overlooked phase in the spiritual journey. It invites all of us—not just the newly initiated—to meditate on the Gospel, participate in the Eucharist, and practice charity as a way of deepening our understanding of the Paschal Mystery. It’s not about mastering doctrine, but about allowing the mystery of Christ to master us. ✨ Why Mystagogy Matters It shifts us from knowing to being.  The sacraments are not just rituals; they are encounters with divine life. Mystagogy helps us internalize ...

  In the early Church, mystagogy was not a footnote to initiation—it was its flowering. The newly baptized, called  neophytes  or “new plants,” entered a season of deep reflection after receiving the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. This wasn’t a time for more instruction, but for transformation. Mystagogy, from the Greek  mystagogia , means “to lead through the mysteries.” It is the art of living what has been received. Today, mystagogy remains a vital, often overlooked phase in the spiritual journey. It invites all of us—not just the newly initiated—to meditate on the Gospel, participate in the Eucharist, and practice charity as a way of deepening our understanding of the Paschal Mystery. It’s not about mastering doctrine, but about allowing the mystery of Christ to master us. ✨ Why Mystagogy Matters It shifts us from knowing to being.  The sacraments are not just rituals; they are encounters with divine life. Mystagogy helps us internalize ...