In ascolto della Parola

Sacra Scrittura e discernimento ecclesiale nelle lettere pastorali di Carlo Maria Martini

Abstract

The Pastoral Letters of cardinal Martini represent an extraordinary field of investigation to understand the unique and fruitful approach to the sacred text that the believer, precisely as such, should cultivate. This approach must be respectful of the Word in its objectivity and open to the experience in his subjectivity. In these writings the Archbishop stays with his diocesan community in listening to the Word, in order to discern what steps should be done in the difficult and exciting journey of the Church of our time. In compliance with the specific directions provided by the Second Vatican Council, Martini offers an eloquent example of what it means for a community of believers to read the Word, and let herself be transformed in imitation of Jesus, the Word of the Father. As part of its rich pastoral ministry, the letters represent a legitimate and promising point of view to outline the features of the Cardinal as «shepherd of the post-Council»; believer and minister who was able to make the relationship with God the centre of his own life.