In a message for the centenary of Hans Urs von Balthasar’s birth, Pope Benedict XVI wrote as follows: “the example that von Balthasar has bequeathed to us is that of a true theologian who had discovered in contemplation coherent action for Christian witness in the world…. I hope that you will all continue with interest and enthusiasm to study von Balthasar’s work and will find ways to apply it effectively.” This course will set out to explore the life and the example of Hans Urs von Balthasar, so that we might engage his writings, reflect upon his life, and allow his passion for the Gospel to impact our own lives of Christian witness.

Hans Urs von Balthasar (1905–1988) was a Swiss Catholic theologian and priest, widely regarded as one of the most important theologians of the 20th century. His work spanned multiple disciplines, including theology, philosophy, literature, and aesthetics. He sought to integrate beauty (aesthetics), goodness (ethics), and truth (doctrine) into a unified vision of Catholic thought.

Key Aspects of His Work:

• Theological Aesthetics: His most famous work, The Glory of the Lord, emphasized the importance of beauty in understanding God and theology.
• Dramatic Theology: In Theo-Drama, he explored the idea of salvation as a divine drama in which human freedom plays a role.
• Theological Logic: His Theo-Logic series focused on the relationship between faith and reason.
• Communio School: He was a key influence behind the Communio theological movement, which sought to provide an alternative to both progressive and rigidly traditionalist approaches to Catholic theology.
• Relationship with Adrienne von Speyr: He was deeply influenced by the mystical experiences of Adrienne von Speyr, a Swiss physician and mystic.

Balthasar was nominated for the cardinalate by Pope John Paul II in 1988 but passed away shortly before the ceremony. His theology continues to influence Catholic thought, especially in discussions on beauty, grace, and the role of human freedom in salvation.

Image: Hans Urs von Balthasar greets Pope John Paul II as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (the future Pope Benedict XVI) looks on. balthasarspeyr.org.

Recommended Books: 

• • General, Shorter Readings: 
    • Henri de Lubac’s eulogy for Balthasar
    • Pope Benedict XVI’s Message for the Centenary of the Birth of Hans Urs von Balthasar
  • Introductory Books: 
    • Razing the Bastions (1952)
    • Who is a Christian? (1983)
    • Engagement with God (1971)
  • More Advanced Texts: 
    • Love Alone is Credible (1963)
    • “Theology and Sanctity