I don't think that St. Jerome was known for his proficiency in Greek -I mean, I think he was good enough, but not great, not too mention he was one cranky saint. I find him really hard to like. And, in fact, Paul Johnson's History of Christianity notes that he died with hardly a friend. I believe that the council, in a hit back, which was to be expected, specifically chose Jerome's translation because it so obviously coincided with what they were planning to draw up as the counter-Reformation manifesto.
I have a great quote from a Cardinal in attendance at Trent which perfectly summarizes the Council, at least in its inital stages, and my sentiments towards it. Will post later.
In the meantime, here's a quote that I absolutely love. I know you're not a C.S. Lewis fan, but I hope you appreciate this quote because it touches on Calvinism, and it captures my thinking as well, especially as it regards the loving and indefatigable St. Paul, and predestination.
Originally written to Mrs. Emily Mclay, Aug. 3, 1953:"I take it as a first principle that we must not interpret any one part of Scripture so that it contradicts other parts . . . . The real inter-relation between God's omnipotence and Man's freedom is something we can't find out. Looking at the Sheep & the Goats every man can be quite sure that every kind act he does will be accepted by Christ. Yet, equally, we all do feel sure that all the good in us comes from Grace. We have to leave it at that. I find the best plan is to take the Calvinist view of my own virtues and other people's vices; and the other view of my own vices and other peoples virtues. But tho' there is much to be puzzled about, there is nothing to be worried about. It is plain from Scripture that, in whatever sense the Pauline doctrine is true, it is not true in any sense which excludes its (apparent) opposite. You know what Luther said: 'Do you doubt if you are chosen? Then say your prayers and you may conclude that you are.'"
My boys, Calvin and Luther. ;)
Amen.
Good luck with the studying. 8~)
Mine also: fathers in the faith.
This is my favorite C.S. Lewis quote --
"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."