/library/oar/handle/123456789/105035 2025-11-19T01:36:11Z 2025-11-19T01:36:11Z Attard, Stefan M. Berry, John Anthony /library/oar/handle/123456789/117588 2025-01-07T12:59:26Z 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Fidelis et Verax : Essays in honour of His Grace Mgr Charles J. Scicluna on the tenth anniversary of his episcopal ordination Authors: Attard, Stefan M.; Berry, John Anthony Abstract: The publication of this celebratory volume takes its cue from this motto, and it revolves around three pivotal convictions. First, the very motto chosen by His Grace is a Scriptural text which is deserving of deep reflection, both because it speaks about Jesus Christ’s identity and character, and also because it furnishes a model for everyone to imitate, not only in some grand and momentous contexts as was the case with the awe-inspiring rider, but also in the more ordinary moments of life. Second, this publication is an expression of the filial respect towards and admiration of Archbishop Scicluna for his own search for the Truth, not merely as an abstract concept, but more so as a Person (i.e. Jesus). His faithfulness and commitment to the Lord permeate his ministry and are a source of inspiration to many. Third, it was our intention to provide the Archbishop with scholarly articles that would be instrumental in his ministry as the principal pastor of Malta, in the hope that they would enlighten him and spur him on to continue to appropriate for himself the noble title he chose to mark his exercise of authority with love.

2022-01-01T00:00:00Z Berry, John Anthony /library/oar/handle/123456789/113913 2023-10-30T10:45:24Z 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The spirit of the Reformation 500 years on : proceedings of the Malta International Theological Conference, vol. II Authors: Berry, John Anthony Abstract: The commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation has gone down in history as one of the most important achievements in the ecumenical movement and in the life of the Church at large. A question that remains fundamental up till our very day is the following: “Does Martin Luther’s lived theology have anything to say to us today?” For this reason, academics and ecumenists from a number of distinguished European Universities as well as from the University of Malta came together to interpret anew the theological gifts received through the Lutheran Reformation in their appropriate historical and ecclesial context. The conference proceedings are divided in three parts: the exploration of the historical context, the major theological issues within that context, and an appraisal of the spirit of the reformation today. This endeavour revealed significant insights: a commitment to narrate the story in a different way, a celebration of the return to the sources of the Christian faith that has actually produced a process of regeneration of the faith both for Lutherans and for Catholics, and a mutual recognition can never be underestimated. Whatever its impact on history, the Reformation remains meaningful, first and foremost as a spiritual event focusing on the relationship of the self with God, as an opportunity to bring out the riches in both traditions, as well as a reminder that dialogue opens up fresh avenues of thought.; CONTRIBUTORS:; Beate Bengard, John Anthony Berry (editor), Charlo Camilleri, Rene Camilleri, Pauline Dimech, Damian Dorocki, Dominic Fenech, Ute Gause, George Grima, Oleh Kindiy, Anne Kull, Piotr Roszak, Hector Scerri and Paul Sciberras.

2023-01-01T00:00:00Z Berry, John Anthony /library/oar/handle/123456789/113836 2023-10-30T10:47:52Z 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Resilience in a troubled world : proceedings of the Malta International Theological Conference, vol. III Authors: Berry, John Anthony Abstract: Resilience goes beyond mere resistance or endurance; it acts as a driving force for change by utilizing discernment and transformation. It encompasses a wide range of meanings in various fields, including biology, engineering, business, and sports. However, it is precisely this multi-dimensional quality that highlights the importance of a word that can be a valuable asset for society, the Church, and theology as a whole. This volume features the proceedings of a conference that sought to examine the term “resilience” while proposing a fresh interpretation in reference to three towering theological figures: Romano Guardini (1885–1968), Karl Barth (1886–1968), and Thomas Merton (1915–1968) on the fiftieth anniversary of their passing. The conference endeavoured to examine the importance of integrating resilience into theological discourse and reasoning. The presence of resilience is crucial for individuals from different backgrounds to confront their fears and overcome challenges, ultimately finding meaning in their lives. It is an essential component for both everyday existence and spiritual well-being. Ultimately, resilience is not just an abstract concept; rather, it is a tangible expression of Christian faith that involves reconciling with oneself and surpassing limitations to embrace growth. The purpose of these proceedings is to offer a glimmer of hope to our challenging world, illustrating that each person can live in the present moment, constantly surprised and grateful.

2023-01-01T00:00:00Z Zammit, Mark Joseph /library/oar/handle/123456789/113641 2023-10-26T11:58:03Z 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The awakening Church. Resilience and the people of God in Guardini Authors: Zammit, Mark Joseph Abstract: The 50th anniversary of the death of the German theologian and philosopher Romano Guardini is a milestone to rethink the resilient Church. One may think of resilience as an attribute pertaining only to the Church institution in times of difficulties and challenges, however, resilience is not only the institution’s reply to difficult moments in history, but also the responsibility of every person to acquire. Theologian Avery Dulles discusses resilience and mentions that “Catholics tend to wait passively for some directive to come down from on high, and when it does they are all too likely to receive it without enthusiasm.”1 Resilience involves reform within the whole community, which integrally proposes new methods to inspire the present without destroying tradition. Hence, resilience implies knowing well what constitutes one’s own being and identity, in order to present it anew and implement change according to necessity. Guardini’s manner of resilience, when confronted with his changing society, was one which kept loyal to eternal truths, while proposing a Church which adapts to the needs of the community.

2023-01-01T00:00:00Z