Eklezjalny charakter teologii moralnej

Abstract

While reflecting on the ecclesial character of moral theology, we have to consider three points. The theologian must rely on faith transmitted by the Church, co-operate with the Magisterial Office of the Church, and bear in mind the addressee of the message of moral theology. The condition that he should be within the faith of the Church means that he is ready to draw on the treasure of Tradition. This Tradition not only contains some contents, but also says how to experience and transmit them. Co-operation with the Magisterium does not consist only in commenting some documents of the Church, but in undertaking new questions and problems that have not been entirely solved in the teaching of the Church. The addressees of the moral theologian's message are believers. They have a right to expect clear principles of moral life and support how to solve problems in the moral assessment of their action. Moral theology should initiate dialogue with non-believers, so that by using rational arguments it could find a way to the sublime evangelical teaching about good.