Jacques Dupuis Faces the Inquisition

Synopsis:
The critique of Jacques Dupuis, SJ, by the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith at the direction of Joseph Ratzinger was met by almost universal dismay by Christian theologians and participants in interfaith dialogue throughout the world. This book is comprised of both responses by Father Dupuis to the Vatican's criticisms (which he was forbidden to publish during his lifetime) and introductory and background material by his friend and editor Bill Burrows, who draws on their many conversations to draw out the deeper implications of Dupuis' work and the background to the Vatican investigations and criticisms. In addition to laying bare procedural problems in the CDF's process, Dupuis shows that both the Vatican document Dominus Iesus and the Notification about problems in his work rest on dangerous misunderstandings of Scripture and church teaching that reverse the gains in interfaith understanding and ecumenism that have occurred over the past fifty years.

Endorsements:
"[This] book provides valuable context and probing insight into two previously unpublished pieces by the late Belgian theologian Jacques Dupuis. Under Burrows's tutelage, Catholics discover in Dupuis's thought ways in which they might continue to hold faith in the unique saving significance of Jesus Christ, while also affirming the deep spiritual wisdom of other religious traditions."
--Richard Gaillardetz, Boston College

"By making two previously unpublished texts by Jacques Dupuis available and by reflecting on their context and significance, Burrows contributes significantly to the ongoing search for an adequate Christian theology of religions. Moreover, it demonstrates how a different, genuinely public, mutually attentive, and respectful theological debate could strengthen the development of Roman Catholic approaches to faith, hope, and love today."
--Werner G. Jeanrond, University of Glasgow

"This book is not simply a thrilling account of the 'inquisition' of a great theologian and proverbial odium theologicum, but also a lucid primer to current Roman Catholic theologies of religions. Not out of prurient interest in ecclesiastical politics, but out of deep love for truth and the church, Burrows makes Dupuis . . . come alive in these pages. It is a must-read for those interested in the future of Catholic theology."
--Peter C. Phan, Georgetown University

"This is a book full of witness, wisdom, and challenging theological thought. It convincingly argues for deeper comparative theology, further engagement with religious pluralism, and interfaith dialogue at the deepest existential and spiritual level. A truly inspiring read."
--Ursula King, University of Bristol

Author Biography:
William R. Burrows is research professor of missiology in the world Christianity program at New York Theological Seminary and managing editor emeritus of Orbis Books, Maryknoll, New York.