"All things are common among us, except our wives."
+Tertullian (c. 197, Western).
I find it meaningful that Tertullian makes only one exception to the communal rule. Wives and, by implication, husbands are not held in common, but all else is. All, including our children, are held in common.
This is well reflected today in the tradition of godparents. Our children belong to the Church, even if we die. The godparents represent the common parentage of the Church and ensure that a baptized child will be raised in the faith. They are also to assist in raising the child in the faith even while the parents live.
In the community that I envision, all adult members actively share in this godparentage.
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3 comments:
I cannot fail to point out that Tertullian died a heretic - specifically, a Montanist. Much of his earlier writing, however, is orthodox and I believe, though I am not entirely certain, that the quoted passage comes from his orthodox period. Regardless, it appears harmonious with the orthodox quotations from many saints on the same subject.
I see no objection to the education and general upbring of children as a common activity. However, all children should belong first to one set of parents. A community is not a substitute for a mother and father, whether natural or adopted.
Furthermore, the importance of marriage is diluted if children are held in common in an absolute sense--and we should understand Tertullian's statement in this context.
Not to mention: the significance of parentage is attested all thoughout the scripture.
Dave,
You are absolutely correct to make this clarification. The community shares in "Godparenthood," but not in parenthood itself.
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