Abstract:

The Third Gospel, distinguished by its pervasive theme of joy, is widely recognized as the “Gospel of Joy”. Despite this acknowledgment, the theme of joy has received comparatively less scholarly attention than other Lucan themes. While some dissertations have provided in-depth examinations of this theme, most studies address it only in broad terms. This study adopts a narrative-critical approach to analyze the seven stories in the infancy narratives, investigating both the story level—focusing on how events embody the theme of joy and how characters exhibit joy in their lives—and the discourse level, which explores the literary devices that reinforce this theme. The study demonstrates that joy in Luke’s Gospel is intricately linked to its central themes: salvation, the divine plan, and reversal. It also identifies distinctive patterns of joy comprising two key elements: divine accomplishment through promise and fulfillment, and human response through joy and witness. These patterns extend throughout the Gospel, reinforcing its theological and narrative coherence. Ultimately, this study brings contemporary readers closer to Luke’s authorial intention, inviting them to immerse themselves in the joyful proclamation of God’s salvific work, rejoice in divine activity, and encounter a gracious and merciful God. Such an immersion allows readers to perceive the Gospel through Luke’s theological perspective, embracing the eschatological value system, one that finds joy in being poor before God.

Final Defense:

Board of Examiners:

1. Sr. Bernardita Dianzon, F.S.P., S.T.D., Ph.D. (Adviser)
2. Fr. Clifard Sunil Ranjar, S.J., S.S.L., S.T.D. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner)
3. Markus Locker, Ph.D.
4. Fr. Renato Repole, S.J., S.T.D.

Proposal Defense:

Board of Examiners:
1. Sr. Bernardita Dianzon, F.S.P., S.T.D., Ph.D. (Adviser)
2. Fr. Clifard Sunil Ranjar, S.J., S.S.L., S.T.D.
3. Markus Locker, Ph.D.

Proposal Title: JOY AMIDST CONFLICTS: A Narrative Critical Reading of the Lucan Infancy Narratives