The Myth of Rahnerian Exceptionalism: Edward Schillebeeckx’s 'Anonymous Christians'

Author:

Bullivant, Stephen

Format:

Journal Article

Year:

2010

Journal Title:

Philosophy and Theology

Volume:

21

Issue:

2-Jan

Language:

English

Abstract:

The term “anonymous Christian” is widely considered to be distinctively Rahnerian. Although other major Catholic theologians proposed similar theories for the salvation of those (formally) extra Ecclesiam, imputing an “implicit” or “unconscious” faith to justified non-Christians, it is commonly thought that none embraced his famous phraseology. Prior to Balthasar’s publication of Cordula in 1966, however, this was not the case. During this period “anonymous Christianity” enjoyed a wide currency, even among its prominent later critics. Focusing especially on Schillebeeckx’s extensive usage—and indeed, possible coinage—of the phrase, I argue for a reappraisal of the early reception of “anonymous Christianity.”

Who (Jesuits):

Rahner, Karl, 1904–1984

What (Subjects):

Theology -- Christian Life

When (Centuries):

20th century

Publisher URL:

http://www.pdcnet.org/pdc/bvdb.nsf/purchase?openform&fp=philtheol&id=philtheol_2010_0022_40545_0339_0351&onlyautologin=true

Page Range:

339–351

ISSN:

0890-2461

DOI:

10.5840/philtheol2010221/216