The Loyola School of Theology (L.S.T.) invites you to the oral defense of the S.T.D. Dissertation entitled “THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CHRIST’S KENOSIS FOR THE CONGREGATION OF THE MOTHER OF THE REDEEMER AND ITS FOUNDER” by Fr. PHAM DUC THANH, C.R.M. on 10 September 2024, Tuesday, 3:00 p.m., at the Tipanan ni San Ignacio, DLC 201, 2/F Dela Costa Bldg., L.S.T. The Board of Examiners is composed of Fr. Hartono Budi, S.J., Th.D. (Adviser), Fr. Jojo Fung, S.J., Ph.D. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner), Fr. Emmanuel Marfori, S.Th.D., and Fr. Enrico Eusebio, Jr., S.J., J.C.D. The defense is being held in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Doctorate in Sacred Theology with the field of specialization in Systematic Theology.
Abstract: This dissertation examines the concept of kenosis in Christ’s mission to save humankind from corruption, aiming to shed light on the notion of self-denial as demonstrated by Fr. Thu, founder of the Congregation of the Mother of the Redeemer (CRM), and his brothers. By analyzing the hymn in Philippians 2:5–11, the study seeks to enhance the understanding of self-denial in Fr. Thu’s teachings and the congregation’s documents. The findings aim to inspire CRM brothers to appreciate the beauty of kenosis and to infuse their practice of self-denial with joy and hope. The thesis suggests that religious individuals should approach their sacrifices with a salvific perspective, making their ascetic lives beneficial not only to themselves but also to others. Furthermore, as a congregation dedicated to Mary, the thesis encourages the brothers to follow her hidden life as a model of self-denial, thereby enriching their lives within the context of God’s salvific mission. Through this exploration, the research seeks to provide a meaningful framework for understanding and practicing self-denial, rooted in the kenosis of Christ and exemplified by Mary.
