Overview

Questions surrounding the understanding of ""communion"" are a significant feature of much contemporary ecclesiology, but their prominence calls attention to wider questions regarding ecclesiological method. Brian Flanagan addresses the questions of how to characterize a systematic ecclesiology and the possibility of a systematic communion ecclesiology through an investigation of the concept of communion in the work of Jean-Marie Tillard, OP. Tillard's theology is noted as the most prominent Roman Catholic communion ecclesiology. Flanagan argues that Tillard contributes to systematic ecclesiology by defining the concept of communion in relation to Christology, soteriology, and theological anthropology, thereby framing an answer to the contemporary question of ecclesial unity and diversity. The book also assesses the danger of idealism in Tillard's thought, and suggests that further engagement with social scientific study of the church will help strengthen, nuance, and critique Tillard's idea of communion.

Full Product Details

9780567574244

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Reviews

'The late Jean-Marie Tillard, OP (1927-2000), was arguably, after Yves Congar, the leading French ecclesiologist of the twentieth century. In this comprehensive study, Brian Flanagan explores for English-speaking readers the theological corpus of this major ecumenist. The key concept is that of communion (koinonia) with emphasis also on salvation and grace. This probing monograph, clearly articulated and richly documented, is the latest in the valuable new series from T. & T. Clark entitled Ecclesiological Investigations (volume 12).'-Michael A. Fahey, S.J., Professor of Ecclesiology, Boston College, USA.

'The late Jean-Marie Tillard, OP (1927-2000), was arguably, after Yves Congar, the leading French ecclesiologist of the twentieth century. In this comprehensive study, Brian Flanagan explores for English-speaking readers the theological corpus of this major ecumenist. The key concept is that of communion (koinonia) with emphasis also on salvation and grace. This probing monograph, clearly articulated and richly documented, is the latest in the valuable new series from T. & T. Clark entitled Ecclesiological Investigations (volume 12).'-Michael A. Fahey, S.J., Professor of Ecclesiology, Boston College, USA.--Michael A. Fahey, S.J.

Author Information

Brian Flanagan is Assistant Professor of Theology at Marymount University, Arlington, Virginia, USA.

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