A dinâmica da experiência crente

Abstract

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of Unitatis Redintegratio, a text expressing the ecumenical dimension of the entire Second Vatican Council, we propose a rereading of Paul Tillich's work, Dynamics of Faith. Although relatively unknown, this work remains inspiring and pertinent to the theme of restoring Christian unity, as well as to the ecclesial and social challenges of ecumenical dialogue and practice in the contemporary world. Firstly, we present Tillich's formal definition of faith as the "ultimate concern" of existence, aiming to embrace the constitutive aspects of the act of believing and thus allow for a greater scope and macro-ecumenical dialogue. Secondly, we highlight how Tillich defends the symbolic nature of faith before characterizing specific religious symbols. Thirdly, we show that the Lutheran theologian proposes a typology of faith, positioned between presence and becoming. Fourthly, we tackle the question of the truth of faith and its criteria. Finally, we conclude with Tillich reaffirming the experience of faith in its relation to life.