La dimensione apologetica della Teologia fondamentale : una riflessione sul ruolo dei Praeambula Fidei

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the apologetic dimension of Fundamental Theology, pointing out that such dimension should be recognized in the role it has as theology in dialogue, always facing an interlocutor, and called to supply reflections useful for a public discourse on God. After summarizing the historical path that led classical Apologetics to be replaced by contemporary Fundamental Theology, mainly prompted by the need of emphasizing its new fully theological status, we examine whether the so-called praeambula fidei, more philosophical in character, might continue to play any role in such a changed context. Since contemporary evangelization experiences today serious difficulties due to the major influence of lay-atheistic thought, that uses to criticize any philosophical access to the notion of God, we raise the question whether Fundamental Theology is called to face this situation and offer any intellectual aid to the preaching of Gospel. Taking the cue from some comments made on this subject by the recent Magisterium of the Church as well as by individual authors, we suggest re-evaluating the role of praeambila fidei as part of such necessary theoretical support, exploring the ways in which Fundamental Theology could enter into dialogue with them. The preambles of faith have in fact the function to show the rational meaningfulness of a number of contents associated to Revelation. Moreover, they can be recognized as part of a theological, not merely philosophical path, taking into account that their knowledge is theoretically placed after God's Revelation in nature, made by His creation, and before the Revelation that God realizes through a history of salvation. Finally, in the light of contemporary pastoral and cultural climates, we try to point out which specific contents should be today recognized as part of these preambles.