Philosophy and Theology

Volume 16, Issue 1, 2004

An Appreciation and a Critique in a Discussion of On Being Human: U.S. Hispanic and Rahnerian Perspectives by Miguel H. Díaz

In the context of acknowledging the contrast between Marian devotional life and eucharistic theology, this response to Díaz’s book makes several connections between the two, including a glimpse into Rahner’s own devotional piety. While affirming and approving the overall content of this study by Díaz, the respondent uses a more recent article by Rahner to suggest four topics that might have enhanced the book: 1) how Marian devotion is founded on the doctrine of the communion of the saints; 2) how Mary’s unimportance and marginalized position enhanced her unique acceptance of grace for the sake of all humanity; 3) how Rahner’s emphasis on women’s equality can figure in the present theological conversation about the relevance of Jesus’ maleness; and 4) how there is room in the church for a variety of individual and cultural approaches to the theology of grace and to the devotional life of the faithful.