Book Review: Comparing Faithfully: Insights for Systematic Theological Reflection. Ed. Michelle Voss Roberts

Abstract

Theological Studies 79(1)the original vision of the Second Vatican Council. D. is clearly in this latter camp. To bring about a church more attuned to reconciliation and humility, D. strongly advances Pope Francis's urging the use of synods at every level of the church (11).Papa Francesco is clearly aware that the core belief in an all-loving God and compassionate Christ is clearly at the center of the faith, rather than "rationalistic discussions on problematic questions" (9). You see this attitude in the pope's preference for teaching through daily homilies. So the "magisterium" has shifted from a definitional character to a more humble, pastoral expression within the context of the liturgy. D. has some insightful comments on the differences and overlap between a "Doctrinal Magisterium" and a "Pastoral Magisterium" (39-45). The church, he says, has frequently been beset by the Cartesian ideal of "clear and distinct ideas" and wishes to teach and proclaim in a similar manner. Pope Francis, in his role as worldwide pastor, has recognized the vast cultural differences so that what would be received as true in one diocese, might be considered in error in another. Francis underscores the importance of the sensus fidelium as a crucial partner in discerning the action of the Spirit in the church. "A pope without the Church would not be pope" ( 40). But such a stance leads to ambiguity and uncertainty in some quarters. Francis, reflecting his Jesuit heritage, advises, "Discernment can be messy." At the same time it would be impossible to think that the faith could be transmitted in a "pure and simple" way exclusively through its praxis (45).In the final chapter D. provides a theologically cogent argument for the restoration and advancement of synodality in the church. The church largely abandoned earlier structures for local and regional churches to make decisions. By the twelfth century decisions were negotiated for the church by the pope and emperor, by the local bishop and local prince, who were sometimes one and the same (77).Pope Francis has repeatedly raised up the importance of local churches. "A synodal church is a listening church," he reminds us (77). Decentralizing the church can foster the discernment of the Spirit alive in all the faithful. Local synods can provide pastoral remedies where and how they are most needed. D.'s arguments are both complex and clear; they are thoroughly grounded in theology and the living tradition of the church. A translation into English would be a welcomed gift to a wider audience of readers.