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Anchor Concept: Redemption (PDF File)

REDEMPTION

Redemption refers to God's saving action in human history. The Jewish people point to the Passover and deliverance from slavery in Egypt as God's redemptive act par excellence in salvation history. Christians point to Christ's passing-over from death to resurrection as the central event by which God has redeemed humankind from slavery to sin and the power of death. Baptism immerses us into the reality of Christ's redemptive death and resurrection. Our redemption in Christ frees us from fear and uncertainty to live in the freedom of the Gospel, to proclaim its Good News and work for the justice of Christ's Kingdom. As St. Paul says: "while we were sinners, Christ died for us." Through no merit of our own, God has freely bestowed on us his universal redeeming love in Christ, who "died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures" and rose from the dead to lead us to fullness of life. What we have been freely given, we must freely share through forgiveness and support for one another with compassion, loving-kindness and mercy.

Related Concepts:

RESURRECTION
FREEDOM
HOPE
LOVE
PROMISE
PROPHECY
COVENANT
FORGIVENESS
RECONCILIATION
INCARNATION
SALVATION / ETERNAL LIFE
SUFFERING
TRIUMPH OVER SIN / EVIL
HEALING
MYSTERY
MERCY
COMPASSION
SOLIDARITY
BAPTISM
FORGIVENESS
Corresponding Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:
 
CGE1a Illustrates a basic understanding of the saving story of our Christian faith
CGE1b Participates in the sacramental life of the church and demonstrates an understanding of the centrality of the Eucharist to our Catholic story
CGE1j Recognizes that "sin, human weakness, conflict and forgiveness are part of the human journey" and that the cross, the ultimate sign of forgiveness is at the heart of redemption. (Witnesses to Faith)
CGE2e Uses and integrates the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology and information systems to enhance the quality of life
CGE3a Recognizes there is more grace in our world than sin and that hope is essential in facing all challenges
CGE3d Makes decisions in light of gospel values with an informed moral conscience
CGE4g Examines and reflects on one's personal values, abilities and aspirations influencing life's choices and opportunities
CGE5c Develops one's God-given potential and makes a meaningful contribution to society
CGE5g Achieves excellence, originality, and integrity in one's own work and supports these qualities in the work of others
CGE7b Accepts accountability for one's own actions
CGE7c Seeks and grants forgiveness