St. Thomas Aquinas in the Reflections of J. Ratzinger (Benedict XVI) Cover Image

Šv. Tomas Akvinietis Josepho Ratzingerio (Benedikto XVI) apmąstymuose
St. Thomas Aquinas in the Reflections of J. Ratzinger (Benedict XVI)

Author(s): Grzegorz Bachanek
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Philosophy of Religion, History of Religion
Published by: Visuomeninė organizacija »LOGOS«
Keywords: Thomas Aquinas; J. Ratzinger; Benedyct XVI; searching for the truth; the faith; the mind;

Summary/Abstract: J. Ratzinger wants to portray the wealth of each of the Fathers and great theologians of the Church. He does not conceal his special interest and fascination for the person of St Augustine, to whom he devoted his doctoral dissertation. All the same, references to St Thomas’s thought in the works of Ratzinger are numerous and important. It seems that over the course of time the theologian gradually discovered the immensity Thomas’s thought. His deep acquaintance with texts as well as many studies is impressive. Ratzinger can see in the man of Thomas a theologian fruitfully seeking after truth, an outstanding, overall saint. His thought is helpful with the real reception and authentic interpretation of the Bible. Thomas’s love for the Church Fathers, especially for St Augustine, is worthy of note. Thomas is a witness of the Christian unity of the mind and the faith. He reminds us that the theologian should direct his desire for the recognition above all towards God. Thomas is especially concerned with the truth of the connection between creator and creature; we can thus assign him the title ‘Thomas a Creatore’. The secret of the presence of the Christ in the Eucharist brought about joy and tears in the spiritual life of St Thomas. Against superficial perspectives, Thomas` anthropology is dynamic. Thomas is a great admirer of the Mother of God. Coming to Thomas’s thought is a witness to the vitality of the Church.

  • Issue Year: 2010
  • Issue No: 65
  • Page Range: 29-40
  • Page Count: 12
  • Language: Lithuanian