(Latin: causa)
A primary notion derived from observation of occurring changes. In general, defined as: a principle which by its positive influence determines the existence of something else. Four causes are enumerated as mutually contributing to the final result:
An intelligent agent's mental pattern of an intended effect is the exemplary cause or idea. All things created are actualities of exemplary ideas formulated in the Divine intellect from eternity. Efficient causality is of chief concern. Every effect of an efficient cause is either a new entity or a new state, i.e.,a creation or a change. Creation is attributable to God alone as the Primary Cause, all other causes but modify things that already exist.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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