Sebastian Theruvanmoola Mathai, C.M.F. (India)
Abstract:
The post-modern technological advancements, materialistic and secular ideologies, and at the same time religious fundamentalism brings in dehumanizing attitudes of relativism, totalitarianism, individualism, and spiritual emptiness. In such narrations the insights of faith traditions stand as guiding torch for the society. The concept of Human Person and human dignity has deep roots in the theology, moral and political philosophy, and anthropology of many religions having an immense role to play in the pursuit of human destiny. This work examines the transformative nature of Christian Personalism according to Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II and concept of Human Person in Hinduism, thus tries to lay a foundation for Hindu-Christian dialogue where Human Person is the subject and object of reference. The Christian Personalism as envisaged by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II views the Human Person with inalienable value and dignity, rights and duties, and freedom and self-determination, irrespective of space, time, and culture. The Hindu philosophical and theological concepts, ethos, and principles are more than mere narratives, they are creative powers of true human freedom from clutches of narrowness and manipulation and an encounter of truth in Human Person.
In such inter-faith dialogue and action Human Person and human dignity is the bed-rock that can become an agent of social transformation in the Indian context. Thus, it explores the scope of Christian Personalism according to Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II and the concept of Human Person in Hinduism achieves their original purpose and mission of bringing their adherents to the light of truth, especially truth about Human Person.
Final Defense:
Board of Examiners:
- Fr. Jojo Fung, S.J., Ph.D. (Adviser)
- Fr. Manuel Francisco, S.J., S.T.D. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner)
- Fr. Emmanuel Marfori, S.Th.D., and Manuel Dy, Ph.D.
Proposal Defense:
Board of Examiners:
- Fr. James Kroeger, M.M., D.Miss. (Adviser)
- Fr. Enrico Eusebio, Jr., S.J., J.C.D.
- Fr. Albert Alejo, S.J., Ph.D.
Proposal Title: John Paul II and the Mission of the Christian Family as an Agent of Evangelization in Today’s World with Pastoral Ramifications in the Indian Context