INTERNAL FORUM Meaning and
Definition
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Internal forum is a concept used in religious, particularly Catholic, doctrine and practice. It refers to an individual's subjective assessment of their own conscience in matters of moral decision-making, especially in cases where there may be conflict or ambiguity regarding official Church teachings.
In the Catholic context, the internal forum is considered a personal, private forum of conscience that one consults in order to make moral decisions. It is an internal dialogue and reflection process that weighs one's individual circumstances, intentions, and subjective understanding of moral principles against the objective teachings of the Church. This concept is particularly relevant in situations where the external forum, involving public confession or seeking formal ecclesiastical guidance, may not be practical, feasible, or appropriate.
The internal forum acknowledges the capacity of individuals to discern their moral responsibility and to communicate with God, relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, in matters where there is no clear-cut guidance from traditional authorities. It recognizes the complexity and diversity of human experiences, and emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and spiritual freedom.
While the internal forum respects individual conscience, it is crucial to note that it does not supplant or override the official teachings of a religious tradition or the authority of the Church. Instead, it serves as a complementary aspect of religious life, fostering ongoing self-reflection, autonomy, and integrity within the boundaries established by the faith community.
Etymology of INTERNAL FORUM
The etymology of the term "internal forum" can be traced back to Latin roots.
The word "internal" stems from the Latin word "internus", which means "inward" or "interior". It indicates something that pertains to the inside or inner workings of a person or an organization.
The word "forum" comes from the Latin word "forum", which originally referred to a public square or marketplace in ancient Roman cities. The forum was a central location where people gathered for various activities such as commerce, meetings, and discussions.
When used together, the term "internal forum" refers to a concept within the Catholic Church that denotes the individual's conscience and moral decision-making process. It encompasses matters that are private and personal, relating to the internal reflection and discernment of a person's choices and actions.
