Explorations in Theology




Explorations in Theology, Vol. 1: The Word Made Flesh

Ignatius Press (November 1989)

The first of four volumes of von Balthasar's many essays and conferences. Each focuses on a specific aspect of theology or spirituality and presents it with all the richness which comes from his immense erudition, but in a style that is directed and intelligible since few of these essays were intended for scholarly audiences.

These volumes present a rare opportunity to experience Balthasar's synthetic and comprehensive treatment of major themes in theology without having to make one's way through much more extensive works which cover a much wider scope.

These volumes will provide an excellent introduction to the thought of von Balthasar for those unfamiliar with him, and their chapters will focus on specific themes treated throughout his works for those who are familiar with him. An excellent overview of the writings and thought of one of the outstanding theologians of this century.

Excerpts

  • Theologians and Saints This selection is subtitled "Unity and Division" and is from the chapter titled "Theology and Sanctity" (pp 181-86).



Explorations in Theology, Vol. 2: Spouse of the Word

Ignatius Press (December 1992)

In this volume, von Balthasar looks at the Church, "the Bride of Christ," as both unspotted and unfaithful, the Church of saints and of sinners. He goes through Scripture and tradition looking at both sides of the Church and what they mean.



Explorations in Theology: Spiritus Creator

Ignatius Press (April 1993)

In this third book, Balthasar presents various ways in which something of the Creator Spirit should be experienced through his manifestations: in the way in which he leads human persons to the living God ("Faith"), in the way in which he distinguishes the spirits of this time ("Crisis"), in the way in which he initiates into the mystery of the Incarnate One ("Night"), in the way in which he breathes through the finite structures of human life as that which is incomprehensibly open ("Breath"), and in the way in which he reveals himself as love ("Spirit").



Explorations in Theology, Vol. 4: Spirit and Institution

Ignatius Press (October 1995)

The fourth volume in von Balthasar's essays is built around the theme of Spirit and Institution, the two central features of the Church which Balthasar approaches from different angles. The third volume is built around the theme of the Holy Spirit as the Creator Spirit. The first volume was constructed around the mid-point of the Word become man, and the second volume around the Church which becomes configured to him.

The first part of the book looks at who man is, and then examines the distinctively Christian experience of God. Part two is a whole section on the Church which includes topics like celibacy and the priesthood today, how we should love the Church, and understanding Christian mysticism. The third and final part is an eschatology in which Balthasar gives a brilliant summary of heaven, hell and purgatory.