Holy See Reminds That Dialogue Needs Clarity

Statements by Bishop Francesco Lambiasi

ROME, SEP 6 (ZENIT.org).- Why did the Holy See publish the «Dominus Iesus» Declaration, which was presented to the press yesterday by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which highlights the unique and universal character of salvation in Christ and his Church?

Bishop Francesco Lambiasi of Anagni-Alatri, president of the Italian Bishops' Commission for the Doctrine of the Faith, responded to this question in statements to the Italian newspaper «Avvenire.»

«The Declaration comes like a ring on a finger, because while the Pope and the whole Church are celebrating a Holy Year on the fundamental truth of Christianity, some theologians here and there, in different corners of the world, tend to forget it. Therefore, it is right to be clear and to avoid that the faithful be disoriented given certain positions,» the Bishop commented.

«In the West we live to a greater extent the danger that stems from the prevailing cultural climate, marked by relativism and indifference. Undoubtedly, in times of 'weak thought,' [deconstructionism] the Church must remind humanity that there is salvation only in the name of Jesus,» Bishop Lambiasi emphasized.

In face of the concern of those who believe that these statements could be a stumbling block in the ecumenical road, the Bishop said he does not believe this possibility exists. «Although there might be some theologian who understands the dialogue among religions as diplomatic treatment (like Hans Küng), the document confirms very opportunely that only a clear and solid awareness of the truth allows this dialogue. Dialogue implies equality in the dignity among the persons, not equality in doctrinal contents.»

In response to those who say the Declaration is a step backwards, Bishop Lambiasi said: «A more tranquil reading of the document will enable one to understand the profound intention, which is not to take a step backward in the ecumenical dialogue but, on the contrary, to take a step forward. It is enough to see how many times Vatican Council II documents are quoted in the Declaration. I am certain that, once the reactions of the first moment pass, the fidelity to the Council will emerge with clarity.»

Zenit - The World Seen From Rome