The Theology and Ministry Program of the School of Humanities invites you to the oral defense of the M.A. Thesis entitled “THE MYSTERIES OF CHRIST’S SELF-EMPTYING: Henri Nouwen’s Experiences and Reflections on Vulnerability in Dialogue with Karl Rahner, Jürgen Moltmann, and Hans Urs Von Balthasar” by SEPTIAN MARHENANTO, S.J. on 24 May 2025, Saturday, 10:00 a.m. at the Tipanan ni San Ignacio, DLC 201, 2/F Dela Costa Bldg., Loyola School of Theology. The Board of Examiners is composed of Fr. Manuel Francisco, S.J., S.T.D. (Adviser), Fr. Hartono Budi, S.J., Th.D. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner), Fr. Oliver Dy, S.J., S.T.D., Ph.D., and Fr. Emmanuel Marfori, S.Th.D. The defense is being held in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Master of Arts in Theological Studies specializing in the field of Systematic Theology. It is open to the public.
Abstract: This thesis examines the theological importance of vulnerability in the life and works of Henri Nouwen, emphasizing its deep relationship with the Christian mystery of Christ’s self-emptying, or kenosis. This study analyzes Nouwen’s personal experiences and reflections to explore how his openness regarding loneliness, insecurity, and internal struggles provides a unique perspective on vulnerability, viewing it not as a weakness but as a transformative source of spiritual growth and community strength. This research, informed by an extensive literature review of Nouwen’s writings and interfaced with the theological viewpoints of Karl Rahner, Jürgen Moltmann, and Hans Urs von Balthasar, illustrates how accepting vulnerability can enhance the experience of grace and reveal God’s presence within human brokenness. This thesis seeks to enhance theological discourse, pastoral practice, and Nouwen studies by demonstrating how vulnerability, exemplified by Christ’s kenosis, may promote resilience, compassion, and genuine spiritual development in modern Christian life.
