Ratzinger on Religious Pluralism

"Sameer Advani delivers a tour de force in this meticulous study that distinguishes itself as the most complete synthesis of Ratzinger's theology of religions to date. Weaving together a host of the theological maestro's early and largely unexplored writings with important texts from his later years in ecclesiastical office, Advani presents a comprehensive analysis of Ratzinger's balanced middle path between exclusivism and pluralism while offering a concrete alternative that better reflects the uniquely biblical shape of authentically Catholic theology. Significantly, he demonstrates that, while avoiding the common pitfall of deeming other religions salvific in themselves, Ratzinger affirmed their important, if asymmetric, role within salvation history. In a field where this gentle soul is still routinely branded as a narrow-minded 'Grand Inquisitor,' readers will be refreshed to see how vigorously the late pontiff simultaneously defended Christian mission and interreligious dialogue, considering both to be mutually transformative processes. The result is a must-read not only for Ratzinger enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in understanding the place of other religions in God's plan."Matthew J. RamageBenedictine College"We live in the age of unreflective, eclectic postmodernity, which delights in playing on the theme of 'multiple modernities,' implying that there are varieties of self-standing, completely unrelated truths. Advani shows in his comprehensive survey of Ratzinger's balanced view on religious pluralism that neither the exclusivist model of Karl Barth nor the inclusivist model of Karl Rahner, John Hick, and Paul Knitter do justice to the greatness of the human heart. Yes, there is a positive, though relative, value inherent to world religions. The definitive self-revelation of God in his Son Jesus Christ is the center of history. Christ's singular graces elevate humankind, bringing all religions to their true, indwelling telos: Jesus Christ. Advani's study is an indispensable resource in this important area. A crucial tool for the high-minded project of New Evangelization. Highly recommended!"Rev. Emery de GaálMundelein Seminary"Few inaugural books can compare with this one. It would be hard to convey the breadth and subtlety of Advani's analysis, which is both appreciative and critical. Even scholars who think they know Ratzinger's corpus will discover previously neglected facets and texts. This book both confirms Ratzinger's status as the greatest theologian of the postconciliar period and identifies domains that continue to need work, such as apologetics and the missionary impulse. Boding well for the future, Advani emerges here as a highly significant theologian in his own right."Matthew LeveringMundelein Seminary