In the Fullness of Faith: On the Centrality of the Distinctively Catholic

by Hans Urs von Balthasar

Publisher:

Ignatius

, 1988

Overview

Virtually every aspect of Catholicism which is controversial within the Church or a stumbling block to non-Catholic Christians is treated in this book. Rather than avoiding what is most glaringly un-modern or what is most criticized by non-Catholics, Balthasar reviews these elements one by one, and shows how they are rooted in the central Christian mysteries and the commonly accepted tradition. What is specifically Catholic is not defended polemically, but described in such a way that others can see, even from their own point of view, the inner consistency with the mystery affirmed by all. Here is a form of thought which is truly ecumenical precisely because it is fully Catholic.

Key Features

• Treats controversial aspects of Catholicism, revealing their roots in central Christian mysteries
• Reviews criticized Catholic elements, showing their consistency with commonly accepted tradition
• Describes Catholic specifics in a way that fosters ecumenical understanding

Contents

• Foreword
• Introduction: The Present Situation
• Catholic
• Church: Mission and Structure
• The Communion of Saints
• Apostolic
• Incarnatus Est
• Ecumenism

Product Details

• Title: In the Fullness of Faith: On the Centrality of the Distinctively Catholic
• Author: Hans Urs von Balthasar
• Publisher: Ignatius
• Print Publication Date: 1988
• Pages: 130
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• ISBNs: 9780898701661, 089870166X
• Resource ID: LLS:FLLNSSFTHDCTHLC
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2025-03-20T20:11:26Z

About Hans Urs von Balthasar

Hans Urs von Balthasar (1905–1988) was a Swiss theologian widely regarded as one of the greatest theologians and spiritual writers of modern times. Named a cardinal by Pope John Paul II, he died shortly before being formally inducted into the College of Cardinals. He wrote over one hundred books, including Prayer, Heart of the World, Mary for Today, Love Alone Is Credible, Mysterium Paschale and his major multi-volume theological works: The Glory of the Lord, Theo-Drama and Theo-Logic.