Some Notes: An Introduction to Spiritual Theology in the Third Millennium

Abstract

The study titled Some Notes: an Introduction to Spiritual Theology in the Third Millennium is like an initiation into spiritual theology or Christian spirituality in Christian perspective. The paper presents a panoramic view of spiritual theology and Christian spirituality closely connected with moral theology. Hopefully the essay is like a tasteful appetizer that introduces the reader to the main course: plunging himself/herself into the spiritual, mysterious, and mystical world of perfection and holiness, contemplation and compassion, justice and love. The study develops four major points. In the first place, is the important and relevant interconnectedness of moral theology and spiritual theology. In the second part, are the meanings of spirituality and Christian spirituality. In the third place, are the basic highlights of spiritual theology underlining the continuing relevance of the classics of Christian spirituality. In the final part of the article, some characteristics of spirituality for our time are pointed out and studied. In the introduction and the conclusion of the article, the writer of these notes affirms humbly that he presents this warm appetizer on spiritual theology not simply as an academic exercise but as an invitation to a deeper spiritual, mystical, and evangelical life. St. Thomas Aquinas says that theologians – doctores theologiae – must teach in such a way that they contribute to the salvation of souls. The theologian is a man or woman of faith, a member of the community of disciples who witnesses the Gospel in his or her time.