Paul KeenanA former student of Benedict XVI has spoken of his joy at an upsurge in interest in the former Pontiff’s theological works.
Speaking to The Irish Catholic this week after his return from Rome, where he participated in events to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Fr Joseph Ratzinger’s ordination, Fr Vincent Twomey, Professor Emeritus of Moral theology at Maynooth described his former mentor as “an extraordinary theologian” and expressed his delight at finding that “interest in Pope Emeritus Benedict is growing, especially in Rome. He is the theologian they all want to study.”
Fr Twomey said proof of Pope Benedict’s esteem among theologians was contained in the ongoing translations of his many volumes of writings. Pointing to his Introduction to Christianity, Fr Twomey said that work alone has now been published in 20 different languages.
Further evidence of the increasing interest in Pope Benedict’s work lies in the recent development of a Master’s programme in ‘Joseph Ratzinger: Studies and Spirituality’ at Rome’s Patristic Institute Augustinianum.
Mainstream
“He is an extraordinary theologian,” Fr Twomey said, adding that, “his theology was virtually ignored by mainstream theologians until he became Pope and then interest grew so that scholars now realise just how extraordinary he is.”
Having been present for the special celebration for the Pope Emeritus hosted by Pope Francis, Fr Twomey was able to confirm that the former Pontiff is “quite healthy and was in great form”. He added that he grew visibly in strength when, in the course of thanking his hosts, Pope Benedict began to speak on theology. In that address, Fr Twomey said, “the depth of his thinking and the sharpness of his mind” were displayed.
“He is one of those rare minds in the Church who will still be relevant in generations to come,” Fr Twomey insisted.
“He stimulates people to think about the Faith.”