“Literature helps readers to topple the idols of a self-referential, falsely self-sufficient and statically conventional language that at times also risks polluting our ecclesial discourse, imprisoning the freedom of the Word”- writes Pope Francis in his letter to seminarians on the role of literature in formation (17 July, 2024). The readers group of Sedes Sapientiae- Uno Ogni Tre has been a good success from its launch, last year. As a voluntary readers club animated by don Martin Luque, they meet together once in every three weeks, (thus the name Uno Ogni Tre- Once Every Three). This year, the club is anchored around the persona and works of the great Russian writer, Fyodor Dostoevsky.
The first book of the year is Crime and Punishment, which is read in parts and so far, the group has had two meetings and has covered half the book. Known for its exploration of guilt, redemption, and the psychological toll of crime, the novel sparked intense conversation among the group, pushing members to grapple with profound philosophical and ethical questions. The thought frame of this book is remarkably Christian.
About 15 literature enthusiasts, including two formators, gathered for the meetings. As the reading proceeds, the second meeting was more oriented on Raskolnikov’s (the protagonist) motivations, the weight of his internal conflicts, and the novel’s reflection on human suffering and societal justice. Some of the readers saw him as a tragic figure, while others felt he represented the dangerous line between theory and reality.
As Uno Ogni Tre Club continues to delve into literary classics, it is also a moment of community gathering and confluence of diverse ideas. And again, they prove that good literature flavoured with Christian philosophy offers you a genuine and quality leisure time between theology lessons and formation classes.