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Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The natural law as source for the canon law in Code of John Paul II

Magdalena Jakimowicz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1996 | Abstract | pp. 97-124

The Christian concept of natural law is built on the foundations laid down by such protagonists as Paul of Tarsus, Saint Augustine or Saint Thomas. The first one believed that law of nature had been inscribed in human nature by the Creator. However, it was St. Augustine who explained the Christian concept of natural law. In his reflections he began with the act by which God had created man. According to St Augustine a man, created as a reflection and a living picture of God, became law for himself, doing the right things. Despite the fact that human nature has been contaminated by the original sin, a man feels natural law as a longing for the original condition.
Saint Thomas based his meditations on the need for noticing the division between natural order and supernatural reality. It allowed him to define law of nature as a human participation in the immemorial law of God, and as a component of sensible (rational) human nature. Saint Thomas indicates direct relation between positive law and natural law. Positive law is a derivative of natural law and it has to be congruent with it.
Christianity has been accompanied by the awareness of ceaselessly existing nature until the present century. Despite a strong influence of positive legal philosophy on Law of the Church, church legislator referred to natural law in the Canon Law Code from 1917. As early as in canon 6 point 6 it was declared that the present Code does not cancel natural law. Also no tradition can do it (canon 27 p. 1). However, in the old Code we can find few specific references between canon law standards and natural law.
After the second Vatican Ecumenical Council church sciences, especially the science of canon law, became more interested in natural law. Then profound reforms within the Church were undertaken. The most important one referred to the understanding of the Church itself because its hitherto existing image was denied. The Church was no longer perceived as a state entity, a perfect community. The Mystery of the Church was noticed. During the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council the Church was defined as a Salvation Sacrament. The notion of a sacrament carries a crucial feature which characterizes the Church as a specificity of Its sign. The Church is a real sign, i.e. it not only points out at some kind of reality but it also embraces it. Here we mean the presence of God in life of the Church.
Such perception of the Church led not only to the reform of church law but it also brought change in understanding of its function within the Church. The law in Church is derived from religious experience. A baptized man is on the one hand presented with life based on the love of God and other people. On the other hand the believer is required to live in truth and to testify the truth. This requirement is a duty and it has been perceived by Christians as such from the very beginning.
Being given the grace of living in the love community and the call to testify the truth, is fundamental for the fulfilment of law within the Church.
The positive law of God is a fundamental source of the church law. Pope John Paul II has already reminded us of it in his latest encyclical Veritatis splendor. He points out there that the law of God is a basic law for the Church, it is essential for its constitution. It contains elements which the church cannot abandon, something it cannot relinquish, forget, or change. The law of God, however invariable it is, can be recognized, depending on the civilized development of man, his scientific background and cognitive abilities. Under the present Code, church legislator often quotes the law of God, making use of the following expressions: ius divinum, lex divina, institutio divina, ordinatio divina, or relevant verb forms.
The Pope maintains traditional distinction between positive and natural law within the God's law. Both are reflections of the immemorial law. Natural law was given to man in the act of creation. Practical mind takes active part in the process of discovering the rules of natural law. It derives its authority from God's Wisdom. The light of natural mind which allows to distinguish between good and evil is a reflection of the light of God. The natural law got its name because mind, which announces it, is a part of human nature. However, natural law is a secondary source for the canon law.
In the presently binding Code the legislator refers to natural law more frequently than in the previous one. First of all he quotes such rules of natural law that can be regarded as axiological foundation of the canon law. Here he means freedom, equality and canon equity. The essence of aequitas naturalis is a complement of ideas such as: caritas or aequitas canonica. Natural equity allows to refer to particular human values such as: honesty, kindness, natural justice or simplicity. The legislator quotes the natural equity in canon 271 p. 3. The provisions of agreement made between bishop of a place where priest was ordained and bishop of where the priest works, have to be kept. Even if the conditions forced the bishop a quo to recall his priest to work in the diocese, natural equity does not allow to break the provisions of the agreement. Canon 1148 p. 3 describes the effects of a polygamous marriage, which was dissolved because of the husband's baptism. The man should remain with one wife, however it does not release him from his obligations resulting from his previous relationships.
In the present Code, the rules of freedom were applied to the idea of religious freedom and freedom of conscience. In canon 784 it has been declared that nobody can be forced to adopt Catholic Faith. Therefore, people who have never been baptized or those of a different creed cannot be forced to accept Catholicism, but even the Catholics who have decided to split with the church community cannot be pushed in any way. Such understanding of religious freedom has its roots in the Vatican Ecumenical Council II. The ecumenical fathers explain the right to religious freedom as something that has deep roots in human nature. Human dignity requires a man to follow his conscious choice. Canon 218 recognizes the freedom of search conducted by the theologians, canonian scholars and dogmatists. They are, however, burdened with a duty to be obedient to the Tutorial Church Office. Ideas related to the freedom of conscience can be found in canon 748. They originate from the teachings of the Ecumenical Council and from the Pope. It is important that the church does not violate the freedom of conscience when it comes to questions of faith and morality. Canon 630 p. 1 burdens the Superiors of Monastic Institutes with the duty to maintain freedom to receive sacraments and spiritual guidance. Canon 799 obliges the church authority to provide upbringing consistent with their parents' conscience.
The rule of equality has a special importance in relation to the Church. The Church, in its nature, is a hierarchized community. That is why, in canon 208, church legislator decides that all the believers are equal in terms of dignity and activity. However, there is a difference when it comes to the church mission – everybody performs a different function (laymen and priests). Different levels of hierarchy apply especially to the clergymen. But all the believers participate in the same priesthood of Christ. In the present Code we can find other applications of the equality rule. Equality between a man and a woman manifests itself in the fact that a woman can be appointed a judge auditor (canon 1428 p. 2) or associate judge (canon 1424), etc.. Only holy orders are reserved for men. In the present canon law the difference between legitimate and illegitimate children is eliminated (canon 1139).

1996-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Idea of God’s Mission Being the Ecclesiastical Fact according to Missionary Encyclicals before the Council

Marian Balwierz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1983 | Abstract | pp. 99-118

The top priority of the practice before the theory of mission was an immutable principle for the Church of Jesus Christ in the two thousand years of her history. This rule was observed also by the Church in the modern process of development of the missionary activity during the last two centuries. No doubt, this development is an outcome of paying more and more attention to this, that the missionary work is as well an ecclesiastical fact as it is a charismatic one. Such an idea has theologically slowly grown up in the papal teaching about some real problems regarding the missionary practice of the Church. The Teaching Church developed the theologically fundamental thoughts of this ecclesiastical vision of the mission when it pointed do the ways of solving these problems. Such a process can be perfectly observed in the whole of the missionary teaching of the pre-conciliar popes.
The idea of God’s mission which is the ecclesiastical fact, is not a statical component of the doctrine enclosed in the missionary encyclicals of the preconciliar popes. Before the Second Vatican Council, this idea was perpetually developed in this teaching by the ways of going deeply into particular questions connected with it. The popes also explicated a lot of essential thoughts of the theology of mission in the course of this evolution. These particular ideas of the pre-conciliar missiology converge in the three main points of the papal teaching from that period, namely in the teaching about the religious nature of the missionary activity, about its ecclesiastical dimension and about the Divine character of the mission of the Church. Together with other questions mentioned by the pre-conciliar popes, those ideas form a fundamental schedule of the Catholic theology of mission up to these days. During a further evolution of this branch of theology, the Teaching Church has first of all integrated those thoughts into a principal idea of the Church’s dynamism.
In the pre-conciliar period, a development of the theological thought about a strict connection between the missionary task of the Church and the Christian faith, was a source of the papal teaching about the religious nature of the missionary activity. This development was grounded on a specification of the papal teaching about the permanence of the mission, its apostolical dimension and its connections with the Salvation of Christ. A subtle maturation of some papal thoughts about the ecclesiastical dimension of the mission of the Church was a direct result of this theological evolution. It is obvious, that the less speculative question of the ecclesiastical dimension of the missionary activity was developed in a more analitycal way by the very practical statements of the pre-conciliar popes about the missionary problems.
A generative dynamism of the faith is a source of the ecclesiastical dimension of the missionary activity. When the pre-conciliar popes developed the thoughts about the faith, the mission and the Church, they also brought up the teaching about the missionary activity tending towards an incorporation of the Church in the native culture of the evangelized people. An incorporating accommodation remains the essence of this process of the transplantation of Christ’s Church. The Teaching Church slowly accomplished in that theological context a great change of the whole perspective which forms its view of the People of God of the New Covenant. This change consists in a replacement of the vision of Christ’s universal Church by the vision of some particular Churches. The new ecclesiological perspective generates in the theology of mission an emphasis on the connections of the source of the missionary activity, its exact process and its aim with an eschatological tension, which exists between Christ’s universal Church and the individual local Churches. Such a thought remains one of the most significant ideas in the theology of mission elaborated by the pre-conciliar Church.
An idea of the Divine character of the Church’s mission was developed in the indirect way by the pre-conciliar popes. The theological thought about the one mission given to the whole Church of Christ was elaborated in the context of the papal teaching about the responsibility of all the Church’s members for the missionary work. When the popes Benedict XV and Pius XI carried on the idea of the only one mission in their teaching about the obligations of the missionaries, they both presented a synthesis of some earlier thoughts about the Divine character of the mission of the Church. These two popes taught, that the Almighty God is in the beginning of the Church’s mission. He also works by his grace in the exact process of the evangelization of the people and He gives it the whole of its efficacy. The other pre-conciliar popes also knew these thoughts, because since the very beginning of their missionary teaching, they all united some particular parts of the evangelizing process with the works of the individual Persons of the Holy Trinity. This trinitarian view of the mission of the Church is also hidden in the papal pre-conciliar teaching about love, which is the ultimate source of the vivacity of the missionary work.
There is no serious doubt that the missionary teaching of the pre-conciliar popes is more practical than theoretical. But this practical nature only gives a pastoral character to this teaching. It does not deprive it of its very deep theological thoughts. So those popes spoke out the real theological consciousness of the missionary Church without any unnecessary discussion about the different opinions of the various theological schools. It was observed before and it has been also confirmed by this study. The missionary teaching of the pre-conciliar popes became an official teaching of the Church of Christ in that way.

1983-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Reception of the Message of Faith according to the African People of Tanzania

Marian Balwierz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1984 | Abstract | pp. 109-132

The indigenous connection between the religion and the life remains a stable element of all the changes, which occur in the modern Africa. Therefore, the religious values occupy permanently the same position in the African life in spite of its all modern transformations. This fact have to be taken into account during the process of looking for the new African models of the man, culture and civilization. In these circumstances, the African and some other people ask about the usefulness of the different religions for the creation of the new African style of life. Such a question regarding the Christianity was also put by some writers. An afirmative answer on it is grouded on two facts. The great internal capability of the Christianity for the cultural adaptation is one of them. The very existence of the incarnation of the Christianity into the real life of some modern African societies is the other one. The Catholicism and the life of the Tanzanian society are exemplary taken here as a ground for the fundamental reflexion regarding those two facts.
The permanent missionary activity of the Christians and the world-wide range of this religion are some exceptional events in the general phenomenon of the religious life of man. Likewise these two exceptional events testify that this religion possesses an unusual capability as well of an accommodation as of an absorbtion during its contact with the diffrent cultures and civilizations of the world. Both elements, namely the accommodation and the absorbtion, are the essential components of a new missionary method, which is called “an inculturation”.
The Ecclesiology, which is grounded on the History of Salvation, forms the proper meaning of the Catholic absorbtion. In this framework, the missionary absorbtion is only a part of the Church's evangelization. This part of the evangelization realizes a process of an introduction of Jesus Christ and His Gospel into the new culture. Such an introduction of the first, essential Christian value serves above all for the true development of the evangelized reality.
The dialogical and ecclesiastical nature of the comprehensive Catholic faith shapes its proper accommodation in the evangelized culture. The evangelizing Church have to enter upon a dialogue with the non Christian cultures and religions in this process. This Church cannot try to force some doctrines, ideologies or outlooks on life upon those cultures, because the real Catholic Truth is the Word of God which became a human being, i.e. Jesus Christ living in His Church now. Therefore, the evangelizers who work for the proper accommodation of the Catholic faith in some new culture, have to make only Jesus Christ to be a present reality in it. This is their care for the proper accommodation of the faith, which is a process almost identical with the missionary absorbtion in this background.
The missionary absorbtion and the missionary accommodation are only two diffrent aspects of the one, evangelizing process. It is called “an inculturation” today. The most essential part of this inculturation is a meeting of Jesus Christ living in the Church with the evangelized culture. Some new culture is created during such a meeting. This process differs totally from an aculturation, because the new culture does not come into being here in a result of the contact of two or more cultures but in a result of the contrast of the evangelized culture with the person of Jesus Christ living in His Church. This person gives the whole newness to the inculturation, which belongs to the very nature of the present life of the missionary People of God.
Apart from the theological reflection, some facts from the life of the evangelizing Church testify in favour of the presented truth. The reception of the evangelical message of the faith by the real society exposed to the missionary evangelization of the Church is one of them. Today this reception occurs for example in the life of the Tanzanian society. It involves four facts: the traditional religious experience of Tanzanians, the africanization of the Church's life, the coexistence of the Church with the State and the advantages granted by the existence of the post-Christian communities. These facts seen together suggest that the Tanzanian Christians are really working for the full, proper reception of the Catholic faith by the new culture which comes into being in this African country now.
The traditional African religious values are the natural foundations for the development of the grace of the living faith among the people of Tanzania. However, these values are not a reality either for a conquest or for a rejection by the evangelizing Church, because they are offered to God by those people, who enter into the salvific dialogue with Him. Therefore, the Tanzanians have to incarnate permanently Jesus Christ who is evangelized to them, into their own traditional religious experience. The Catholic faith of them comes into existence only on this way.
The africanization of the Church's life in Tanzania is the most explicit sign of the development of this Catholic faith of the Tanzanian Christians. The evangelization realized on the level of the parish life works first of all for this africanization in the local Church of that African country. The liturgy, the catechesis and the mutual relations between the people become more indigenous in a result of this process. At the same time, the new, more Christian culture grows in the real life of the Tanzanian society. What is more, this effort of the evangelizing Church meets congenial efforts of the Goverment of that society. Therefore, the mutual relations between the Church and the State are the first sign of the true africanization of the church's life in Tanzania.
The Tanzanian form of goverment is bazed on the local tradition of the common life in this part of Africa and therefore, the care for the full development of the local man is the first aim for the activity of the civil authorities of this country. However, the activity of the evangelizing Church aims also to the full development of man. This identity of tasks gives grounds for the wide mutual co-operation of the Church and the State in Tanzania. Such a co-working is very important for the proper inculturation, because it does not involve only the leaders but also the wide masses of the People of God in the africanization of the Church's life. Such an involvement determines the reality of the true inculturation.
The religious syncretism is the worst danger for the evangelization. It is a matter of fact, that some syncretical post-Christian religious movements exist as well in Tanzania as in the whole of Africa. They are not of course, the true Catholic or African attempts of forming a very African Christianity, because they result from the sociological aculturation. However, the existence of those movements helps the inculturation as they can absorbe the local syncretical indications of some Tanzanians. These movements help also the evangelizing Church to know and to avoid some mistaces in her evangelization.
An observation about the very important role of the Christianity in the process of forming the new African reality concludes this reflection as well in its more theological as in its more missiographical part. This importance flows from the one fact. The Christians do not offer some ideology but the living person during the evangelization performed by them. It is the person of Jesus Christ living in the Church now. A good realization of such an offer by all modern evangelizers depends on the usage of the method of inculturation by them today.

1984-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The problems of inculturation in the Africae terrarum of Paul VI

Andrzej Halemba

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1993 | Abstract | pp. 69-98

The Church, in its work of evangelization, has always had the rule never to condemn, destroy or abandon any element belonging to the cultural heritage which was, in itself, beautiful, just and true. This rule was explicitly expressed by Pius XII in Evangelii praecones (1951). However this document did not deal fully with all the issues and problems which were being experienced in the missionary Church at that time. The most important issue was to create a new model of mission based on the inculturation of the faith. This inculturation, which involves both the missionary and the people evangelised, could be described as the conscious and progressive assimilation of cultural values in the process of evangelization.
The problem of inculturation in Africa emerged most clearly just after the Vatican Council. (Although the term „inculturation” had been used previously by other authors, it is only in 1979, in Catechesi tradendae of John Paul II, that it appeared for the first time in a papal document). An important document on the subject of evangelization in Africa was the papal message Africae terrarum which dealt with the development issues and with other difficulties being experienced in Africa. In this message there was an evaluation of the activities of the Church in that continent. It stressed the fact that a local hierarchy had been established and it spoke of the great contribution of the Church in the field of education. During the sixties (when most countries got their independence) the situation changed considerably because the Church lost its control over its schools. And because of that the Church had to focus its efforts on evangelization alone. While these changes were taking place, there was a greater perception of many of the mistakes of the past, especially of the underestimation by the Church of the local customs and of the religious attitudes and values. Consequently, in this period the discussion on inculturation became more lively.
As well as the Church's loss of influence through the schools, there were other factors which made it clear that its pastoral methods had to be changed: the drop in priestly vocations; the deterioration of the political situation and the outbreak of civil wars in some of the young African countries, the conflict between ideologies and nationalism. All these facts had a great influence on the Church and contributed to a slowing down of the progress of evangelization.
At that moment, therefore, it was considered necessary that the Pope take a stand on this topic. In the encyclical Popolorum progressio Paul VI spoke about the changes taking place in the world and described the elements which make for the integral progress of the individual human person as well as of humankind in general. A few months later, in his message Africae terrarum, he stressed that the African person does not need to deny his identity or discard his traditions when he joins the Christian community. According to this message the responsibility for the work of inculturation belongs to the local Church hierarchy. However, co-operation between the missionaries and the African clergy is absolutely necessary. The full inculturation of the Christian faith also requires political peace and stability; therefore politicians, governments and intellectuals are to be involved. The Pope invited the family to be fully involved in this process, and he dealt at some length with the special role of women and of the youth. True inculturation of the faith should lead the Christian family to the acceptance of values which will manifest the dignity of each person and will guarantee his or her integral development.
Through authentic inculturation the values of the local culture will be brought to their fulfilment. „The African culture”, said cardinal Paul Poupard, „is a wonderful soil which is awaiting the incarnation of Christ. Inculturation, then, is a real form of the solemn covenant between God and man, which is taking place here and now and which is embracing the practical aspects of daily life, the different forms of thought and of social institutions”. Inculturation, being a dialogue between cultures and faith, is a process which is mutually enriching both for the Church and for the people evangelised. The Church accepts all the cultural elements which are compatible with the Good News and enriches them with the Christian message and, at the same time, the Church is enriched by the wisdom of those cultures.

We hope that the inculturation of the faith which was started in the late sixties will be deepened and developed during the African Synod, which is not only an opportunity for the Church in Africa but also for the universal Church.

1993-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Evangelization and the theology of immigration

Marian Balwierz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1981 | Abstract | pp. 205-218

The Church in Europe realizes her duty of evangelization with help of immigrants, who perform this activity in different ways. The most important of them are the pastoral, oecumenical and missionary activities. Knowing this truth, the Church since the Fourth Lateran Council (1215) has taken care of immigrants in various ways.
At present, people who look for work dominate in the group of European immigrants. It is obvious from ecclesiastical teaching about the value of human work, that the care of the whole human person is the first concern of Church’s approach to the phenomenon of immigration. The whole Church realizes this care in two more practical ways. The first of them is the defence of personal rights and human dignity of immigrants. The second duty is her pastoral care regarding religious life of those people. Both of them tend towards neutralization of the danger of desintegration in the immigrant’s life. The principle of priority of human spirit before material realm of man has dominated this very practical approach of the Church to the phenomenon of immigration.
The same doctrinal principle is typical for the evangelizing activity of the Church among and by immigrants in the modern Europe. Paying attention to the various problems of immigrant’s life, the Church has first of all established some proper pastoral institutions for those people. Some of those institutions do not only take care of their souls, but also help them to solve all other particular problems of their life. A special attention is paid here to the children of immigrants. The welfare work of the Church is also very important here. The Church has started also to celebrate a „Day of Immigrant” every year, in order to increase her apostolic work in and by the immigrant's world. Those and other projects can bring immigrants as well as their families to Jesus Christ, and therefore they are ways of realization of Church's mission.
A further verification of such a conclusion brings forward the papal theology of immigration. The phenomenon of immigration is seen by popes Pius XII, Paul VI and John Paul II as a reality strictly connected to the Mystery of Incarnation of God’s Son. It is also connected to the Mystery of God’s Revelation and the Mystery of Man taken in his religious experience. Four theological thoughts, namely: about God the Father of all the people, about the unifying task of the Holy Spirit, about the Church existing as an evangelized-evangelizing reality, and about the whole Church as being a missionary reality, have dominated this particular teaching of the Church. This reflection leads to the conclusion, according to which it is possible to say, that local Churches realize an integral part of their duty to build the universal Church and to evangelize the world by their proper work among immigrants.

1981-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Dependence between priestly activities and political and social attitudes of workers in Jastrzębie Zdrój, in the years 1980-1981

Sławomir Skotnica

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1993 | Abstract | pp. 121-147

The years 1980—1981 made the remarkable period in the latest history of Poland. There were two main reasons of that. The first one-it was the explosion of the workers’ protest in August 1980, which embraced industrial plants all over Poland and was terminated by signing of collective agreements between the workers and the communist authorities. They were named after the cities, where they had been signed, namely the agreements of Szczecin, Gdańsk and Jastrzębie. The second reason-it was the foundation, as the result of these protests and agreements, of the Independent Autonomous Trade Union „Solidarity”. The events of 1980—1981 had a great infhience on priests’ activities of the Church in Silesia, especialy in the diocese of Katowice, due to the positively industrial character of the area. In this diocese (presently changed into archdiocese) there is the city of Jastrzębie Zdrój which became the cradle of the coal miners’ strikes in August and September of 1980. The Church in Jastrzębie lavished the priestly attention on the striking coal miners. The priests in aswer to their request crossed the gates of the coal mines. In the coal mines the priests were saying masses, performing the sacrament of penance and reconciliation, corrying on prayers and singing of sacred songs. The priests have already earlier, through their work in the workers environment, created the basis for the striking activities in August, for demanding of justice in the sprit of evangelical love, without using any force.
The parish of the Holiest Mary, Mother of Church in Jastrzębie Zdrój. in the years 1980—1981 became a symbol of the activity of people of the Church for the benefit of improving the situation of miners in Silesia. The presbitery of the parish of the Holiest Mary, Mother of Church was the main center of assistance to the strikers, since majority of the miners, working in the coal mines of Jastrzębie and coming from all over Poland, lived within the boundaries of this parish. After the strikes the priests, under the leadership of the parish-priest Czernecki, were meeting the management of IATU „Solidarity” in Jastrzębie, in presence of the bishop Herbert Bednorz, called „the bishop of workers”, due to his great interest in the matters of working people in Silesia. The priests served with help and advise to the trade union activists, introducing to them the social teachings of the Church and facilitating their contacts with representatives of the Catholic lay intellectuals. This beneficial cooperation of the both parties (i.e. the Church and „Solidarity”) was not disturbed even by the conflict within the management of IATU „Solidarity” in Jastrzębie, which took place on the turn of 1980, since the majority fraction proclaiming among others a partnership cooperation with the Church (Stefan Pałka. Tadeusz Jedynak, Ryszard Kuś). has won within the management over the procommunist group lead by the chairman of „Solidarity” in Jastrzębie since 26.01.1981 — Mr. Jarosław Sienkiewicz.
The activists of the renewed structures of „Solidarity” in Jastrzębie Zdrój took part in many contacts with the Church in the region and in the country, including international contacts, such as the visit of the „Solidarity” delegation to the pope John Paul II in Vatican.
At the end of the article there were shown problems of priests in Jastrzębie Zdrój related to the introduction of the marshal law on the territory of Poland on December 13th, 1981. Since that day the Church in Jastrzębie pined in these specific conditions the activities for the benefit of workers, which depending on circumstances the Church was forced to work inwas more or less connected to the priestly ministrations. The priests visited the strikers and deprived of employment as well as imprisoned miners, bringing them and their families moral consolation and material assistance. The fact that the marshal law did not lead in this area to an agression from the side of the wronged miners towards representatives of the communist authorities, resulted to a great extent from the dependence between the activities of the priests and political and social attitudes of workers in Jastrzębie Zdrój in the years 1980—1981.

1993-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Ecclesiastical and Theological Grounds for the Penitential Practice Introduced by Cyprian in Carthage

Jan Słomka

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 24–37

The mid-third century persecutions of Christians spread over the entire Roman Empire. Thank to Cyprian’s correspondence, we are familiar with their course and the developments in the African church after their termination. After the persecutions ceased, Cyprian commenced the process of reconciliation in the Church, establishing the rules for the reinstatement of the lapsed. He argued against the practice of recommendation letters issued by the Confessors on the one hand, and against the rigorists who denied the fallen any possibility of returning to the Church on the other. The Confessors pointed to their unique relationship with the crucified Christ resulting from the tortures they had withstood. The rigorists claimed that only baptism cleansed heavy sins, including the denunciation of Christ, therefore, it is impossible for the Church to forgive those sins again after baptism. Cyprian adopted the following principle: ecclesiastical communion may be offered, but it has to be preceded by penance, and it is only the bishop or priests acting on his behalf that have the right to grant it. He justified the possibility of restoring the lapsed by claiming that the Church was a community of repenting sinners. Granting the ecclesiastical communion is without prejudice to the Lord’s decision at the Last Judgment, but it gives hope and support to the sinner, so that he may persevere in his penance. Cyprian’s objection against Confessors granting ecclesiastical communion – the practice that was well established in the Church and considered as lawful – resulted directly from his understanding of the Church as a community gathered around the bishop. As the successors of the Apostles, bishops are depositaries of the gifts and executors of the commands which Christ has left to His Church. Reinstating the lapsed, they act on behalf of the Church, without invoking their personal merits, as the Confessors did.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Missionary spirituality as an essential part of personality of modern missionary

Marian Balwierz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1982 | Abstract | pp. 31-41

From the very beginning of Christianity, the Church have to fight for some good missionaries, especially in the every stage of her history called a „time of mission”. This general observation is also true today. Even is more, the modern context of mission shows that a proper realization of Church’s evangelizing task depends first of all on person of an evangelizer himself today. It depends on the methods of evangelization only with connection with the personality of missionaries.
It is also a matter of fact that the missionary Church likes to employ evangelizers from Poland these days. This very good opinion about Polish missionaries comes from another fact. Everyone of them realizes in the missionary circumstances a fashion of fidelity to the mission received from the Resurrected Lord proper for the Church in Poland. According to Pope John Paul II, it is the fashion of the evangelizing testimony and the social services. Both categories, namely the evangelizing testimony and the social service belong to the realm of spiritual personality of missionary. This spiritual personality of evangelizers is a matter of great moment for the evangelization of people among their all another personal values.
Actual replacement of an expression „missionary activity” by a term „missionary evangelization” emphasizes also on those connections between the spirituality and the mission of modern missionaries. The most important of them is the care for objectivism of evangelization. Each missionary has to deliver Jesus Christ to the evangelized people in his missionary work. It is obvious that he has to have Him spiritually first or he will be uncapable to do this evangelizing job because he will not possess the essence of that, what has to be delivered in the process of evangelization. This personal possession of Jesus Christ occures and grows through the sacramental life of an evangelizer. Missionary's spirituality standing first of all on those sacramental life enables him also to be a master in the Truth during his work for awakening and intensification of people’s faith.
There are two consequences of those facts. First, it is now impossible to define the missionary without some reference to the cathegory of his spiritual life. Second nowadays the Teaching Church pays more and more her attention to this correlation between the spiritual personality of missionary and his mission. A wise synthesis of this particular teaching of the Church can be found in the newest papal document treating on those matters, namely in the apostolic adhortation Evangelii nuntiandi of Pope Paul VI.
Papal teaching about the spirituality of missionaries is grounded on a very important rule. The evangelizing mission of the Church is her service to the world in the prophetical order. It is not principally the service to the world in the sociological or psychological orders. Therefore, the first and the most important condition for a good evangelizing is a missionary’s total submission to the Holy Spirit. This Christ-centrical obedience to the Holy Ghost is realized by an evangelizer during his exeptional service as well to the Gospel as to the Church. This missionary’s spirituality of servant reveals itself by an evangelizer’s attitude of witness to Jesus Christ and His Salvation in the more personal dimension. A ground for this attitude of witness is a holiness of evangelizer’s life. The modern missionary develops his holiness of life when he mantains his own sacramental life, his own practice of virtue of prayer and his own spirit of a personal sacrifice.
There is no better conclusion for this theological reflexion than a replica of papal words appealing for a personal increase of our own missionary spirituality helping for our own realization of common duty of evangelization.

1982-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Youth and Their Religious and Moral Attitudes

Piotr Brożek

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2002 | Abstract | pp. 349-358

Gradual desacralization is one of distinctive features of our world. Nevertheless, men who decide to lead the lay life cannot free themselves totally from religion. Recent sociological studies prove without doubt that young Poles are strongly influenced by the religious doctrine resulting from the deeply-rooted Catholic tradition which plays an important role in forming one’s outlook on life.
In 1997 a questionnaire was given to pre-graduates, the total number being 378 students, in two high schools in Lublin. This particular age group seems to be of special importance since their opinions are fairy established already. The analysis of religious and moral attitudes shows that acts against truth and one’s own self are the most disapproved ones. Some acts against conjugal morality and faith are approved. Liberalization connected with sexual attitudes is demonstrated mainly when pre-marital sexual relations are concerned; these are definitely approved by the majority of young people. On the other hand a greater part of the respondents accepts a necessity of being married at least at a church wedding as a basic condition of being a wife and a husband. Almost three third of the students are against abortion but only a half of them are for banning it altogether. The students coming from the intelligentsia families are characterized by greater acceptance of liberal attitudes. Few of them condemn acts against conjugal morality and religious faith, pre-marital sexual relations or a total ban on abortion and they rarely perceive a necessity of having a church or civil marriage certificate. Students who come from big cities often choose unorthodox answers. They approve of self abuse, acts against faith, pre-marital sexual freedom, civil weddings and accept abortion unconditionally. Answers given by female students stress a necessity of having a church and civil marriage certificate to be lawfully married. They also more often express the opinion that terminating a pregnancy should be banned altogether. On the basis of the conducted analyses it can be concluded that coming from the intelligentsia may result in moral attitudes incompatible with the teachings of the Church. Similar conclusion can be drawn concerning people born in big cities. These relations, however, are statistically irrelevant. The same can be said about the sex of respondents. Girls are prone to behave in a more orthodox manner than boys. The results of the research show the influence of socio-cultural pluralism on the dominance of selective attitudes. What is crucial, however, is the fact that there exists a group of people who present the accommodative attitude, i.e. accepting the relevant aspects of the teaching of the Church, whereas those who refuse to comply with the teachings of the Church altogether are a marginal group. This may testify to continuity of the attitudes showing acceptance of moral attitudes as proposed by the Church which, despite competition of other outlooks and lifestyles, will not lose their identity in the attitudes of generations to come. The presented results are obviously limited to a specific community and a precisely determined group of people. Therefore it seems advisable that further research be conducted taking into consideration other communities and social groups.

2002-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The renewal of the Church by Pope Francis in his Evangelii gaudium

Przemysław Sawa

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 182-202

A new evangelization isn’t only a matter of the method and administered measures, so the domain of pastoral theology and pastoral care, but largely the reality demanding dogmatic reflection. According to this guideline one should read Apostolic Exhortation of the Pope Francis Evangelii gaudium. The new evangelization is based on renewed ecclesiology, which in the presented document receives specific guidance of the papal teaching. It is of even greater significance because this text constitutes the word of main assumptions of Francis’ pontificate. The Church portrayed in Evangelii gaudium is an evangelizing community and still evangelized and the basic option is the missionary commitment. The Church lives for the Gospel and its proclamation is an essential element of his identity. Pope shows the whole Church, so the clergy and laity, as the subject of evangelization. This applies to different dimensions – pastors and faithful, men and women, families, youth, dioceses and parishes. Small communities are ascribed particular importance. At the same time the whole church and one baptized individually, regardless of vocation and function, needs continuous accepting the Gospel and converting according to the Word of God. This is not just a matter of personal or communal morality. Francis calls the Church to pastoral conversion. It marks the first radical focus on the message of salvation. With this comes a bold revision of the customs, practices, actions taken – evaluation of their effectiveness, legitimacy in the modern world, primarily in terms of outright portraying Jesus and his message. Evangelii gaudium shows the condition of the Church, its strengths and weaknesses. It does not only present the description but also points to the way out of the crisis and multiplying the good that is the wealth of the Church. Text is expressing optimistic vision of the world, the Church, evangelization. This happens whenever baptized focus on Jesus, and developed missionary zeal leads to experiencing true joy. A brief but suggestive call the Pope Francis gives the main directions for the perception of the evangelizing and evangelized Church: ‘May we never abandon them [this is poor]’, ‘Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of missionary enthusiasm!’, ‘Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of the joy of evangelization!’, ‘Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of hope!’, ‘Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of community!’, ‘Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of the Gospel!’, ‘Let us not stifle or presume to control this missionary power!’, ‘Let us receive the sublime treasure of the revealed word’, ‘May we never remain on the sidelines of this march of living hope!’.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Pastoral renewal in the parish according to II Polish Plenar Synod

Bogdan Biela

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2003 | Abstract | pp. 70-87

28th of February 2001 year came in to force a resolution of Polish Plenar Synod (PPS) in all Polish dioceses. Synod work was started by John Paul II during IV pilgrimage to the Homy land in 8th of June 1991 year.
This article undertook a trial of answering such a question – now and in what circumstances the resolutions II PPS could become a gift for the Church in Poland creating a ministry in its basic structure which is a parish. Presenting historical – diecesial contest there was said that 29th of October 1992 year during first session of Archidiocesesial Synodal commision II PPS in Katowice, among others was also come into force working team for lays apostolate and the leader had become the author of this article. Among all postulates and suggestions which are sent to the main commission to Warshaw the first and fundamental was that, which testified in working texts – that is lack of pastoral vision of bulding parish according to the vision of Church in Vatican Council II documents. Without realising that vision, especially by priests in the Church, all the other postulates will be hung in emptiness.
Finally Synod reananged working documents so as from 17, 14 documents came into life. The base and fundamental work for reneval of the parish is the first document which was didn’t exist in working documents: Neccessity and tasks of new evangelization in the turn of II and III Millenium of Christianity.
On the base of the choice of texts from II PPS one can state that although Synod doesn’t show holistic model of parish as a community, otherwise looking at council vision of Church univowlly postulates to build dynamical parish, based on community of communities model. It is connected very tightly with neccessity of katechumenal lays formation stressed by Synod. In that case it is not possible to not appreciate, showed by synodal documents, a part of properly created priests and the meaning of movements and communities expienenced in realising community model of parish. It is only a pity that one can not find in all those documents a place for presenting expienences worked out by our home movement of after council renewal of Church: Light–Life Movement. As an example is given Movement for Better World (Movimento per il Mondo Migliore).
In front of priests and aware of their part faithful lays there is a task of realisation community model of parish. That demands respect precisely very casfully created stages connected with quantitive and qualitive growth of parish. One can learn a laf from direction of contemporary pastoral theology and expierieces of after council movements of Church renewal. So, there shows very urgrnt neccessity, to have in every diocese strategical plan of realisation model of community parish and proffessional teams and undertaking evengelical actions in parishes. Towards that direction should go all trials of Diocese Curia Ministry of Departments.

2003-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The missionary obligation of the People of God

Jan Górski

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1987 | Abstract | pp. 167-182

New, after Vatican Council II view on the Church, see the new aspects of the live the People of God (LG 9). The Church is in his nature the missions (AG 2). And the mission obligation is imported in the live of the Church.
This article presents the mission duty of the ministry the Pope, Bishops, Priests, Ordens and the Laity. That is the first Christian necessary to crop up the Baptism and Confirmation and from the Christian and personal vocation to the ministry in the Church too. From generous responsibility of the Church in the world, we must pass on to the specific missionary dimension of every vocation and state of life. The Council said about this missionary dimension: „pro parte sua” (AG 23).
The missionary obligation is necessarily for ever person in the Church, ever member the People of God.

1987-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Catholicity on Trial: Ecclesiological Reflections on Unity and Diversity in the Global Catholic Church

Dirk Ansorge

Language: EN | Published: 25-03-2026 | Abstract | pp. 9-22

During the period of European colonialism, the Catholic Church underwent a process of global expansion which was characterised by a tendency towards uniformity dominated by the Latin Church and its capital, Rome. However, the end of colonialism and the subsequent Second Vatican Council saw the Church become inculturated into diverse religious and social contexts, making the issue of unity and diversity within the Catholic Church imperative. The key questions are: how much unity is necessary, and how much diversity can be tolerated, to preserve the unity of the Catholic Church on a global scale? Focusing on ecclesiological reflections, this essay analyses the Final Document of the 16th Ordinary Synod of Bishops in terms of its attitude towards unity and diversity within the Catholic Church. What possible consequences might the Synodal Journey of the global Church have for its institutions and structures? Since, according to Lumen Gentium, the Church is a complex reality consisting of institutional and spiritual elements (LG 8), the relationship between the truth of the Gospel and the identity of the Church can be examined from a sociological perspective in order to develop a comprehensive understanding. The article argues that that the sacramental structure of the Church (LG 1) justifies the implementation of “secular” elements into its structures, when enabling it to fulfil its mission of spreading the Gospel into different cultures more effectively.

2026-03-25



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Pastoral aspects of the „Renewal in the holy spirit”

Bogdan Biela

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1998 | Abstract | pp. 171-186

Thirty years have passed when once again in the Catholic Church we are enjoying the revival of the charismatic movement called the „Renewal in the Holy Spirit”. This movement, although it arises controversy and insinuations, still lasts, continues to develop and is sweeping with its range over millions of Christians all over the world. In 1975 Paul VI said that it was the chance for the Church of today and for the world. The article presenting the essence of the Renewal, its fruit and the dangers involved points to certain conditions that must be fulfilled in order to take advantage of this chance.
In the face of diminishing religious practice, and at the same time of the trend to satisfy the hunger for religious experience through completely false ways, the Renewal in the Holy Spirit appears to be a sign of hope, because what forms its essence is not a system or method, but above all the experience of God’s reality, His Goodness and power. This is the source of the widely understood religious and moral changes that transform the life of its members. Of course, certain negative aspects also occur, however, they can be avoided by suitable management and subordination to priestly authority.
The basic pillar of the Renewal is formed by the communities. They are the ones that help in acquiring special dispositions that condition God’s action in man. There arises, in this connection a demand for their proper management and for a suitable formation of secular animators. Also a very important thing for the future of the Renewal is the attitude of priests themselves, who on account of their vocation have a unique and irreplacable role to be played, first of all in its integration with the life of the Church. There would be something abnormal about it, if the Renewal by strengthening the life of the Church remained without their commital, as this after all, could be the cause of its dwindling and also lead to various distortions.
It has become visible that traditional forms of ministry, basing on the postTridentine model of the parish are less and less effective. To start with, the Renewal in the Holy Spirit by „increasing the value” of the sacrament of Holy Baptism and Confirmation, can contribute considerably to the revival of the parish, as it is impossible to simply „introduce” enlivening of the parish. A personal meeting with Jesus Christ in the power of His Spirit must always be the point of departure. On this foundation developing communities can through their missionary ways, reach people who do not have any contact with the Church anymore.
There also appears the need to integrate in common action the Renewal in the Holy Spirit with our own native Movement of Light-Life which has already developed an overall and realistic program of parish animation. 

1998-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Receiving Vatican II through the Synod on Synodality: The Process, the Outcome and the Challenge of Implementation in a Worldwide Church

Myriam Wijlens

Language: EN | Published: 25-03-2026 | Abstract | pp. 36-63

Sixty years after the promulgation of the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church Lumen gentium, pope Francis convoked the Synod on Synodality. With the Synod the church has entered into a new phase of its reception. Possibly one of the most relevant fruits of the synod was the transformation from a static church with occasional modifications to a church characterized by a permanent flow leading to a continuous circularity. This was given shape in the interaction of the local church with the church universal which in turn was expanded by an awareness of the catholicity of the church in which there is an exchange of gifts. The process created an awareness of context and diversity beneath which there is a deep sensed unity. The formal closing of the Synod in 2024 coincides with the inauguration of the implementation. Canonical provisions have a specific task in this. The study attends to synodal participative bodies at all levels of the church. Special consideration is given to the diocesan pastoral council, episcopal conferences and plenary and provincial councils.

2026-03-25



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Synod on Synodality (2021-2024) and the Experience of Unity and Diversity of the Catholic Church in the Czech Republic

Josef Mikulášek

Language: EN | Published: 25-03-2026 | Abstract | pp. 64-77

With the conclusion of the 2^nd Session of the Synod on Synodality, the Catholic Church worldwide enters the implementation phase of synodal conversion, as presented in the Final Document of the 2^nd Session of the Synod (October 2024). The consultation of the People of God and the Final Document emphasise the concept of the Church as a communion of local churches and, thus, the essentially synodal nature of the Church. In this article, I examine the progress and outcomes of the first (diocesan and national) stage of the synodal process in the Catholic Church in the Czech Republic as a partial contribution of the communion of local Churches towards the two sessions of the Synod on Synodality (2023 and 2024). After an initial description of the socio-cultural context of the Catholic Church in the Czech Republic, I evaluate the course of the consultation of the People of God in the local churches and then analyse several impulses of the National Synthesis for the synodal conversion of the Catholic Church.

2026-03-25



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Women’s Church. Theological-Feminist Postulates of Revival of the Structures of the Church

Anna Maliszewska

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2015 | Abstract | pp. 304-317

Feminist theology striving for women’s liberation in the world and in the Church very often raises an issue of the hierarchy of the Church. This is because women’s discrimination in the Church is most evident in the perspective of the hierarchy. It seems that the two most important demands to improve the position of women in the Church and to achieve equality of all members of the Church are a change of perception of ecclesiastical offices (as a service, not domination) and the possibility of women’s ordination. These demands are interrelated. In this paper I will present in greater detail the discussion about the second demand. Arguments for and against ordination of women will be set forth. I will also pay attention to another essential issue for the women’s liberation: it is a language
through which we describe the mystery of God. According to the feminist theologians only inclusive language opens the way to perceive women as close to God as men. Moreover, the paper shows feminist theology as a successor of some conciliar conceptions of the Church and also in a certain sense as a fruit of the Second Vatican Council.

2015-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Lumen Gentium – History, Ideas, Plan of the Revival of the Church

Przemysław Sawa

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2015 | Abstract | pp. 283-303

The Second Vatican Council became an important light for the Church in its inner revival and in focusing on the multidimensional world. It is expressed in 4 constitutions, 9 decrees and 3 declarations. The Constitution Lumen gentium presents the Church using the following categories: the mystery, the sacrament of salvation, The People of God, the divine-human reality, hierarchical and charismatic structure, various states on the way to the eschatological fulfillment, where Mary is the icon of believers. The Council also showed the important role of the laity in the identity of the Church. This new vision was not only a cosmetic change
of the form of expression of the content of faith, but a new understanding of the Church, rooted in the Bible and the patristic teaching. At the same time some questions demand a further deepening and defining: the relationship between the Petrine Office and the college of bishops, the collegiality of bishops, the relationship between the office and the charism in practice, the form of responsibility of lay persons in the Church. It was courageous of the Second Vatican Council
to show that the principle Ecclesia semper reformanda is real. The Church lead by the Holy Spirit transforms into new community, improves, converts, rejects what is not the essence of faith, but only a human form, good in a particular time and place. So there is no agreement on the revolution, but on the cleansing and progress.

2015-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Mercy: the heart of the faith and the mission of the Church based on the selected examples of the teaching of Pope John Paul II

Agnieszka Dudek-Kowalska

Language: PL | Published: 29-06-2020 | Abstract | pp. 322-338

The purpose of the presented article is the synthesis combined with the analysis of these examples of teaching of Pope John Paul II that show the issue of mercy as the heart of faith and mission of the Church. Its aim is to present the topicality of the requirement of the Pope to make proclamation and practice of mercy the mission of the Church and – as a further consequence – the base of human relationships. In the first two parts of the article the author elaborates the faith and the testimony of the Church and within this part analyzes mercy as the subject of the experience and the message of the Church and elaborates the form of the testimony. Within the part dedicated to calling for mercy the author shows first the needs and problems of the contemporary world and then presents mercy as the basic answer for them. The author refers finally to the problem of the constant effort of conversion as the manifestation of mercy and the guarantor of the realization of the requirements of mercy. The presented analysis leads to the conclusion that the topic of mercy in the teaching of Pope John Paul II constitutes the constant and current reference and it should be realized by the faith and practice of mercy in the life and the mission of the Church.

2020-06-29



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

STRUCTURE OF ECCLESIASTICAL COMMUNITY IN CONTEMPORARY TEACHING OF THE CHUR CH

Bogdan Biela

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2011 | Abstract | pp. 529–546

Community of a person with God in Christ is the basis of creation in the Church and through the Church a new interpersonal community. This is related closely to the fact of a reinvention and reminding by Vaticanum II and a post-council Magisterium Ecclesiae that the Church making a pilgrimage on the earth develops as a brotherly community of all the faithful and at the same time as a community of local Churches. Such a vision of the Church is most of all a consequence of viewing the Church as a complex reality. This una realitas complexa is in the documents of the Second Vatican Council described as unity or a catholic fullness and even “holy mystery of unity”. This unity does not have its counterpart in lay communities. Its outstanding character comes from the fact that it refers to a divine-humane reality and its result is unity in multiplicity. On this awareness of a teandric character of an ecclesiastical reality Vaticanum II builds up its lecture on the internal structure of the Church as a diverse unity. This is a unity in a diversity of the faithful and a unity in a multiplicity of local Churches which centre is Christ-the Head represented by the community of pastors with the bishop of Rome. Not only this multiplicity and diversion does not disturb unity, but give it a character of communion. Hence the major thesis of of the post-council ecclesiology is based on the statement that the Church is a gathering that is shaped in a diversity of the faithful (communio fidelium), unity in the multiplicity of local Churches (communio ecclesiarum) and a gathering gathered round Christ represented in the power of the Spirit by a community of the pastors (communio hierarchica).These three realities in the post-council ecclesiology are perceived as the basic dimensions of the internal structure of the Church: charismatic, universal-and-local as well as hierarchical.

2011-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

HISTORIA MAGISTRA VITAE: SOLIDARIETAS VERSUS CARITAS

Artur Wysocki

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 105–119

The purpose of this paper is to present the process that led the principle of solidarity, initially pointed against the Church and her essential value of charity, to be gradually incorporated into the social teaching of the Church, and become one of her fundamental principles and values. In particular, the origins of the principle and an important role of pope Pius XI at the beginning of the process are underlined, all the more since his contribution into social teaching is neither well known nor appreciated. The importance of the conception and principle of solidarity in the social teaching of the Church has grown over the last few decades and is now uncontestable. Nevertheless, to be reminded of the beginnings of this process make us aware that the social teaching needs continually to face the reality of the modern world with an open mind and free from fear. 

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

CHURCH COLLECTIONS OF BOOKS ON THE AREA OF THE LWÓW ARCHDIOCESE IN THE LATIN ORDER ON THE TURN OF THE 19TH CENTURY

Józef Krętosz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2007 | Abstract | pp. 405-421

The following article is an attempt to reconstruct the history of church collections of books, especially those belonging to the Polish monastries and parishes which were within the Austrian partition on the turn of the 19th century. The most drastic annihilation of the church libraries in Galitia and Lodomeria was done by the Josephian politic. In these times some orders and other “non-priestly” benefices were annulated. Those church institutions and their collections of books were sentenced for annihilation. The research aim of the article is to follow the history of church libraries belonging to the annulated monasteries. The problem will be illustrated by the history of the church libraries in the years 1780–1815 on the area of Lwów Archdiocese in Latin order.

2007-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Reactions of selected Cath olic periodicals in th e United States to th e cardinals’ dubia from 2023

Szymon Badura

Language: PL | Published: 25-01-2025 | Abstract | pp. 54-68

The publication of the papal response to the dubia in October 2023 prompted a number of comments among Catholic publicists in the United States. The author's choice of U.S. media as an object of study was dictated by the fact that they are a source of knowledge about the actions of the Catholic Church, often quoted in the Polish news space. The text by Pope Francis in question served to clarify doubts arising in the minds of those with conservative views, expressed in five questions drafted by two cardinals, supported by three more, regarding the compatibility of the Holy See's new pastoral arrangements with Catholic doctrine. The publication of Responsum ad dubia was meeting with both: harsh criticism from opponents of changes to the current way of carrying out the Church's mission, as well as approval from progressive-minded Catholics, who saw in the papal moves an example of the Church's pastoral opening to the previously marginalized persons. Undertaking an analysis by the author of the article of the comments appearing in American journalism, revealed the existence of a phenomenon of strong polarization of views of Catholics in the US on the papal actions. Characterization of the arguments undertaken by worldview-distant circles of believers made it possible to show the theological differences in the understanding of the mission and nature of the Church, present in the thinking of their representatives. The progressive differentiation on such an important issue raises the question of the unity of the Catholic community. The example of the division present in the Church in the United States remains an illustration of similar processes taking place in other countries, including Poland.

2025-01-25



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Cura pastoralis w świetle Novo millennio ineunte. Kontekst Roku Eucharystii

Bogdan Biela

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2005 | Abstract | pp. 63-80

In Novo millenio ineunte John Paul II shows us some concrete elements cura pastoralis for the Church on the beginning of third millenium. It consists of seven words – priorities: hollines, prayer, sacrament of reconciliation, priority of grace, listening to the word of God, preaching the word of God (NMI 30–40). One can say that those are some special words – keys as signs to „create Church a home and a school of communion”. Those „outer tools of communion” are rather useless, if any concret examples follow after them. That is why in searching the way for the Church in Poland, one can connect the following words – priorities: to remember with the perspective of prayer, to forgive with the sacrament of reconciliation to receive with listening to the Word of God, to be grateful with Sunday Holy Mass, to give with priority of grace, to go with preaching the word of God. The key word is faith, becouse without this fundament, there is no Church. Other words it is about transition in our ministry from ministry to evangelisation. That is why our contemporary pastoral theology, or better speaking, theology of evangelization shows „evangelization catechumenical” conception of evangelization, postulating to reread and undertake basic rules of life and christian development from catechumenal institution. Becouse of this, it is very important to understand its fundamental and basic statement of Council, that the whole Church is missionary. It is any surprise then, that in this context II Polish Plenar Council postulates to use already existing expieriences and parishal projects of renewal where a great part are church basic communities. But it is strictly connected – as John Paul postulates in Christifidelis laici – with more strict renewal of parishal structures. But before we start to programme some concrete enterprices, we – as pope says –should spread the spirituality of communion which is mainly „look lodged in Holy Trinity who lives in us and whose light should be seen in faces of people around us” (NMI 43). This look, or as – Holy Father says – contemplation of Christ visage, is able to create new energies, making us enthusiastic in concrete situations. It is also worth to say that contemplating of suffering visage of Jesus on the cross tree „seven words” were spoken. One can say that they are a specific testament giving us a programme of creating our spiritual way of life. That is why it can be very inspiriating to combine seven words of dying God – Man, with words – religious service priorities. It is important for outside tools of communion to not be soulless mechanisms or mistification of communion, but the ways of expressing and development. Celebration of Eucharisty, and mainly its top moment when Pascha of Jesus is personificated also consists those seven elements, which are somehow „shepherd’s heritage” of Jesus. This testament shows a way to christian adultery. It is also Jesus specific metodology making disciples, also strictly connected with „tools of communion” from Novo millenio ineunte, allowing us to spread the spirituality of communion.

2005-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Dispute about the Pentecostalisation of the Church

Przemysław Sawa

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2018 | Abstract | pp. 100-119

Nowadays, more and more is said about so called pentecostalisation of Christianity. It may be observed in the development of neopentecostal congregations and Churches and also in the influence of those communities on traditional Churches, including the Catholic Church. The value of this phenomenon is still discussed. Supporters of the accusation of pentecostalisation see it as a root of destructive tendencies for the Church and a way of blurring the differences between denominations. Opponents of the accusation see the pentecostalisation as an exchange of the spiritual gifts, although they do not negate the mistakes made in some communities. The article joins in this discussion, focusing especially on the opinions of Polish theologians. The author is convinced that openness to new aspects of spirituality and religiousness, as well as forms of existence or organization of the Church does not stand in the opposition to the Tradition. Since the idea of continuity of the Catholic identity includes preservation of the whole heritage of faith parallel to courageous finding oneself in what is new and more suitable for the contemporary people. This novelty is the crux of the Gospel and a chance for development of the Church. What we need is only a proper doctrinal foundation, the concern for holiness and the common sense.

2018-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

From the Apologetic Ecclesiology to the Structural Credibility of the Church

Piotr Królikowski

Language: PL | Published: 26-03-2022 | Abstract | pp. 112-128

The article presents three phases in evolution of the argumentation for the credibility of the Church. The first stage includes the apologetic ecclesiology’s arguments. However, they were methodologically inadequate and in the Second Vatican Council's perspective they required reconstruction. At the next stage, it was done by fundamental ecclesiology, which also formulated new arguments that are methodologically consistent with its subject. Third stage is a proposition of
the author of the article. He presents a project of the structural credibility of the Church. This argumentation is based on genetic and functional relationship
between the Church and the Revelation. The author’s purpose is to present fundamental ecclesiology’s arguments as a whole with the help of the dimensions of the Church’s catholicity: height, length, width, depth.

2022-03-26



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Main Lines of Ecclesiological Reflection in Evangelii gaudium

Jan Słomka

Language: PL | Published: 23-10-2020 | Abstract | pp. 99-112

Pope Francis builds his ecclesiology around the statement that the Church is a community of Christ’s disciples, sent to the world to announce the Good News. This announcing should always maintain the dynamics of the kerygma. The community of disciples is a community of weak, sinful people believing in Christ and seeking conversion. The conversion should result in the transformation of the Church structures. The world to which the Church has been sent is loved by God, and in every human being God’s grace is at work, even before they are reached by the Gospel. The Church, therefore, does not need to occupy a central position in order to fulfill its mission. Such understanding of the community, its mission and the  world is the starting point for the interpretation of the whole range of situations in which the Church lives today. Particularly striking are the reflections on the city as a place of living and evangelisation, where the Church should concentrate significant efforts.

2020-10-23



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Reception of Marian Doctrine of the Vatican II in the post-conciliar selected publications

Bogusław Kochaniewicz

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2013 | Abstract | pp. 93-101

The article “Reception of Marian Doctrine of the Vatican II in the Post-Conciliar Selected Publications” presents critical analysis of the recent interpretation, contained in the works of contemporary theologians. The analysis revealed that they misunderstood the intentions of the Fathers of the Council, concerning the Marian doctrine of the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church “Lumen Gentium”, treating it, as a separate treatise. Such separation of the Chapter VIII from the C onciliar Constitution had a negative impact
on the contemporary Mariology. Focusing on the concept of the Church as the People of God led to a partial distortion of the perspective in the studies on the presence of Mary in the mystery of the Church. Lack of the concept of the Church as communio sanctorum had a negative influence on the interpretation of the conciliar Mariology. The article suggests to take into consideration the category of communio sanctorum as a hermeneutical category for Mariology, which will allow to improve our understanding of the place and roleof O ur Lady in the mystery of the Church.

2013-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Theology of Marriage in The Church Wedding Songs

Antoni Reginek

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2016 | Abstract | pp. 79-96

In the old church song repertoires in the Upper Silesia one may find a distinct group of songs connected with the celebration of the sacrament of matrimony. There are not many of them and they are usually labelled as songs before vows and after vows. The theological content of these songs generally concentrates on the topic of unity and indissolubility of the marital covenant. They also take the form of singing supplications for God’s help for the newlyweds. As far as the music is concerned, these songs often use melodies borrowed from other popular songs in the form of contrafactum, but there are also some melodies specially composed. Nowadays, the songs performed and instrumental music played at the celebration of the sacrament of matrimony are not always chosen in accordance with the spirit of liturgy; and often lay music permeates church ceremonies. This is why there is a need for new works in this field of church chant; a need for songs closely related to the wedding ceremonies.

2016-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Stanisław Tarnowski’s Polemic with Vladimir Soloviev about the National Question

Ewelina Topolska

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2013 | Abstract | pp. 147-158

The works of the Russian philosopher Vladimir Soloviev were published (mostly in France) in the nineteenth century. In those works he introduced his views on the universal Church and the place of Russia in the world. His views encountered both critical and positive responses. Positive reaction came from the Polish intellectual elite of the time, centered around Jagiellonian University. Those thinkers discussed the views of the R ussian philosopher in the journal “Przegląd Powszechny”. In this article we will analyze
the extensive review of Count Stanisław Tarnowski, titled Głos sumienia z Rosyi. Above all, Tarnowski criticizes Soloviev’s account of the mission and calling of R ussia, although he expresses a positive attitude to Soloviev’s interpretation of the history of the Church.

2013-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The relationships between the clergy and the laity in terms of John Henry Newman

Justyna Majewska

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2014 | Abstract | pp. 159-164

John Henry Newman cared for the formation of lay Catholics. His desire was educated laity. So he created the idea of the university. He wanted the Church had informed their faith and healthy pious laity. Newman courted their „culture of the mind”. He built the place of the faithful in the E nglish Church. He appealed for counting the „teaching Church” (clergy) of the „Church of the hearers” (laity) in doctrinal matters. Lay in fact opposed to the Arian heresy.

2014-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Sense-creative argument for the credibility of the Church in the light of John Paul II ’s teaching

Krzysztof Kaucha

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2011 | Abstract | pp. 373–386

Making solid arguments for the credibility of the Church is necessary especially today because the meaning of the Church is often misunderstood and she is criticised and turned down by some people. In scientific searching the issue of the credibility of the Church some could see the progress in Poland thanks to outstanding theologians, among them R ev. Prof. Jerzy Cuda, who is the pioneer in showing the sense-creative credibility of the Christian Revelation which was clear to John Paul II . Sense-creative argument is actual especially today, when the western culture or doubts in objective and transcendental sense of human life, or shows only ‘partial’ senses which do not answer a question about the final sense and do not satisfy the most important need of human person – the need of full sense. The content of this article has been devided into four parts: foundation of the sense-creative argument, sense of human life, it’s vocative sense and the sense of human life in confront with the so called theodiceal problem.

2011-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Religious reference and interpersonal relations of catechized gymnasial youth

Magdalena Stach-Hejosz

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2011 | Abstract | pp. 166 – 176

The young people attacked by confusing informations coming usually from mass media, are exposed for harmful influence of present moral crisis. Often being manipulated, the youth isolate catholic moral values from “things of this world”. Moral values are closed in private life sphere. That is why, according to the catholic preceptors, it’s important to form religious attitudes as constant and solid reference to the God and to the Church. The Church in care for youth interest has consiousness that crisis of identity experienced by the young people during gymnasial school period could negative effect for their religious atmosphere. This situation can have influence for interpersonal relations. It is confirmed by researches that young people have leak references to the God and to the Church. Immature reference to the God has often connection with immature personality, orientated for support in the same age group. Moreover it may be assumed that recede influence of rustic traditional background for forming religious attitudes among the young. References to the God and the Church, being observed among catechized young people, become their personal choice matter.

2011-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The meanings of the terms "synodality" and "synodal" in the document A Synodal Church in Mission

Grzegorz Strzelczyk

Language: IT | Published: 29-10-2024 | Abstract | pp. 143-151

The article presents the results of an analysis of the meanings of the terms "synodality" and "synodal" in the document A Synodal Church in Mission, which is a synthesis report of the first session of the synod on synodality, that is the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (October 28, 2023). The use of the examined terms is characterized by little explicitness, and the actual meanings of synodality found in the document are: (1) one of the dimensions of the nature of the Church, (2) the style of functioning of church communities, (3) the way of functioning of specific institutions in the Church, (4) a theological hermeneutical principle.

2024-10-29



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Kościół nauczający i poszukujący. Na marginesie eklezjologii Francisa A. Sullivana

Wiesław Dawidowski

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2005 | Abstract | pp. 90-104

The 20th century may be called the age of debate over magisterium. One of the main figures and experts in this debate is an American theologian F. A. Sullivan. His works including Magisterium: Teaching Authority in the Catholic Church, New York 1983; The Church We Believe In: One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic, New York 1988, and Creative Fidelity. Weighing and Interpreting Documents of the Magisterium, Dublin 1996 are considered classics in contemporary ecclesiology. This article presents Sullivan’s views on the issues of infallibility, ordinary magisterium, and the question of subsistit. The American theologian bases his approach on the historical-critical method and on fidelity of the teaching of Vaticanum II. Like most of the contemporary theologians, Sullivan does not believe in a systematic theology. His ecclesiology is deeply ecumenical and seeks to build bridges between the Church as known in the profession of faith, and the Church of our everyday experience.

2005-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The prerogatives of the polish primates

Zbigniew Janczewski

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1998 | Abstract | pp. 157-169

Many years in the Roman catholic Church exists the title – „primate”. Primates of Poland are very important persons. From the sixteen century they had specially commanding rights on the polish Church and the state. Extraordinary prerogatives (from the popes) had three primates, cardinals Hlond, Wyszyński and Glemp during the domination of communists in the our country. The article tells about this questions.

1998-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Foreign language pastoral care of migrants - the most important documents of the Church

Michał Mraczek

Language: PL | Published: 28-06-2025 | Abstract | pp. 178-193

The article presents the most important documents of the Church on the foreign-language pastoral care of migrants. The phenomenon of migration itself has existed since the beginning of mankind, and we find many references to it in both the Old and New Testament. From the very beginning, the Church has seen in migrants the face of Christ Himself, and hence has provided them with special care over the centuries. Interestingly, the first document to deal comprehensively with the pastoral care of migrants was created only in 1952, followed by others in 1969 and 2004. Their analysis unequivocally confirms the right of migrants to special pastoral care in their mother tongue. Among other things, one can clearly see: consecutive evolution of these documents towards a shift of responsibility for this pastoral care to the level of the local churches, an increasing number of proposed structural solutions and a deepening of cooperation between churches of origin and churches receiving immigrants.

2025-06-28



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares (Matthew 13,24-30.36-43) in pastoral interpretation of St. Augustine

Wojciech Kamczyk

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 101-123

The problem of “sanctity” of the Church belongs to those theological topics which, despite the passage of centuries, remain valid. While pondering on the issue St. Augustine found the parable of the Wheat and the Tares extremely valuable (Matthew 13,24-30. 36-43). In the interpretation both the issues related to ecclesiology and problematic aspects of heresy occupied a lot of space. Nevertheless, in the foreground of his homilies he exposed pastoral issues and suggestions as how believers should act facing the problem of imperfection and sin in the Church. The preacher reads the symbol of grains and tares as the good and bad members of the community. This intermix refers to any ecclesiastical environment and its sensibility is an indicator of vitality of the community. A separate place in the interpretation of the pericope was occupied by heretics who excluded themselves from the community. Specifically, Donatists wanted to consider the Church as a community free of sinners, for that is why they objected to the Teachings of Christ, who called to refrain from premature separation. The pastoral teaching of St. Augustine was focused on members of the ecclesial community, among whom there were good and bad Christians. Those outraged by offensive situations he pleaded for patience, forgiveness and tolerance. Those, whose attitude was close to tares were exhorted to converse. He encouraged good grains to fidelity and perseverance recalling that on the land of the Lord the change is always possible. The appraisal of deeds and life of Christians he enjoined to leave until the Day of Judgment, when there will be a final and infallible separation since there will be a reward for those faithful and righteous.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Z historii działalności charytatywno-dobroczynnej w Łodzi w okresie międzywojennym

Piotr Zwoliński

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2006 | Abstract | pp. 39-50

The charitably philanthropic work of Lodzki Church has one’s own rich tradition reaching second half of 19th century and is connected with the person of priest Ludwik Dąbrowski – the first ordinary of Lodz diocese established in the year 1920. Activities of the Church in this field entered with golden syllables the history of industrial Lodz, especially during the First World War First, and later in years of the great economic crisis. From the beginning of existence of Diocese the charitably philanthropic work of the Church was developed in four principle forms and was driven by associations and charitable organizations, orders, parish charitable points „Caritas” and by immediate charitable action in cooperation with the laic charitable organizations. From the church organizations in the most vital way acted established by the bishop Tymieniecki in the year 1931 the Committee Mayday for the Poorest under the name „Immediate Meal”. Already in the year 1932 it had at its own disposal 15 kitchens, which daily gave over 6 thousand of meals. In order to unify and stimulate the charitable action, the Committee of Charitable Unions „Caritas” was appointed to live from the initiative of another lodzki ordinary Włodzimierz Jasiński in April 1936. It was composed of the following charitable companionship: Immediate Meal, Committee of Summer Camps, Central Committee „Caritas”, parish departments „Caritas”. The committee had also in view keeping contact with the state institutions responsible for social welfare and wholesome, moreover conquering of material subsidies for charitable aims. The explosion of Second World War put the end of the charitably philanthropic action driven.

2006-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Jesus – the Evangelizer

Stanisław Pisarek

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1998 | Abstract | pp. 93-104

The article is the 19th of the series on Jesus Titles which had been published in „Goœæ Niedzielny” weekly magazine since 1994–1996. The previous ones were a popular presentation of the New Testament Christology whilst the 19s article is a scientifically approached summary of the series. It was specially written for the Commemoration Book dedicated to Petr Pokorný who is professor in biblistics at the Department of Protestant Theology at Charles University in Prague (the Czech Republic) to celebrate his 65th birthday in 1998. As the title Jesus – the Evangelizer has not been used in the Bible (althhough it is used even in the Church’s official documents) the author puts forward the question – Is the title „Jesus Evangelizer” rooted in the Bible and what are its contents? This title has appeared recently with the new evangelization. John Paul II made a postulate in TMA: To discover Jesus Christ again as the only Redeemer of the world. The basis for it is a pericope about a rejection of Jesus Christ in Nazareth (Luke 4,16–30). From the philological point of view basing on BH, LXX and NT the line leeds from the Hebrew term me baœer (R$AB:M) throng a Greek substantial form o( eu)aggelizo/menoj (LXX,NT) to the corresponding form evangelizer in medival Latin and the derived from this form neologisms in modern languages, especially in Roman languages up to its presence in Polish theological literature. Polish spelling is „evangelizator” (ewangelizator) but it can not be found in any dictionary of Polish. The author looked for this title in contemporary translations of the Bible and found a term „G³osiciel Ewangelii” (he who preaches the Gospel) as the closest and the most appropriate one.
Analysis of the texts in NT where o( eu)aggelizo/menoj refers to Jesus showed topos of the verb eu)aggeli/zein in the New Testament; philological and exegetical analysis of the texts have been carried out and showed evidence that Jesus was in the function of a subject. The word eu)aggeli/zw/eu)aggeli/- zein is present in 55 places in the New Testament and it is also used 9 times in the context which refers to Jesus’s activities: Matt 11,5; Luke 3,14; 4,18; 4,43; 7,22; 8,1; 9,6; 16,16; 20,1. It is used as participium 20 times in the New Testament only in medial and passive form.
The author presents the results of his own research and gives the definition: What is the definition of Jesus – Evangelizer? The most accurate and the shortest answer can be found in Luke 8,1 summarium: I)hsou=j diodeu/wn kata\ po/lin kai\ kw/mhn, khru/sswn kai\ eu)aggelizo/menoj th\n basilei/an tou= Qeou= which means Jesus constantly on his way (diodeu/wn) through towns and villages, proclaiming (khru/sswn) Good News about the Kingdom of God which has already come. This is what He was sent for. He himself is the Gospel (Mark 1,1). Basing on the original Greek text it is justfied to use the title I)hsou=j o( eu)aggelizo/menoj (the evangelizing Jesus) which can be translated into Latin used by the Church as Jesus Evangelizans, so the contemporary version of the title is Jesus – the Evangelizer. The author’s bibliography contains 32 items which were used as justification of the subject matter of this paper. Item no 27: Carlo Maria Martini, Głosiciel Ewangelii u św. Łukasza. Medytacje, WAM, Kraków 1993 (Duc in altum – wypłyń na głębię 9); Carlo Maria Martini, He who proclaims the Gospel in the Gospel according to Luke. Meditations, WAM, Cracow 1993 (Duc in altum – set out on deep waters 9).

1998-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Towards the Unity of the Church – Ecumenical Ecclesiology of John Paul II

Robert Samsel

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2015 | Abstract | pp. 318-329

The Second Vatican Council was a turning point in the Catholic Church on its way to the unity of Christians. The pontificate of Pope John Paul II was the fulfillment of the teachings of this council in practice. This article presents this blessed time of care for the unity of Christians on the basis of three fundamental issues. First the teachings of the said pope devoted to ecumenism have been presented in a synthetic manner. For obvious reasons the most fundamental reference text here is the Ut unum sint encyclical. It was the first document published after the Second Vatican Council, which deals with the subject of unity of the followers of Christ and
shows what has already been achieved. It also depicts the present day situation of ecumenism and the need for its further development in the light of the preaching of the Gospel to all nations. This encyclical inspires the other two issues developed in this article, that is the issue of spiritual and practical ecumenism and its fruits in the life of the Church and its mission which consists in pursuing a longlasting unity among Christians.

2015-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Colonel Wacław Pyszkowski – General Dean of Polish Army 1947-1950

Piotr Łuczak

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 119–136

Article describes life and activity of father Wacław Pyszkowski, during 3 years of being General Dean of Polish Army. This article was focused to show the complicated personality and difficult lifetimes of father Pyszkowski. Before WWII he was involved in patriotic operations during fight for independence. In thirties he has been engaged in antigovernment actions opposite to marshal Piłsudski. Most time of WWII he spent in Great Britain where he was a chaplain in Polish Army on the West. He came back to Poland in 1946 and instantly he started to work for bureau of General Dean of Polish Army, as a vice dean. In 1947 he became general dean. He was one of the priests who collaborated with communist regime. Because of his position, he has been a kind of icon for the other priests who also have been cooperated with government. He was one of the leaders of organization which concentrated “Patriot Priests”. He stood in the forefront battle with church hierarchy which was focused on problems with jurisdiction. Problem was also in observance and the binding force of the concordat which was signed in 1926. During those three years he has written some articles. These texts might be an interpretation of his own social theology. In his theological thinking he has always shared society by two groups. One group is called Folk, and in this group he placed also Jesus Christ. Second group is connected with possessing, and in that group found church hierarchy. The two groups are separated, and they have different purposes. Right place for modern priest is to be always with the Folk, especially when this Folk has de facto authority.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

German, Polish and Czech Catholics – Cardinal Bertram, Bishop Adamski and their Fight for Olsaland

Maik Schmerbauch

Language: DE | Published: 31-12-2016 | Abstract | pp. 390-407

The changing church history of the Olsaland from 1938 to 1945 was characterized by a special development due to the ethnic composition of the Poles, Germans and Czechs. Since 1918 under Czech rule, it fell to Poland in the autumn of 1938 through the Munich Conference. Ecclesiastically, it belonged to the great German diocese of Breslau jurisdictioned by Adolf Cardinal Bertram. With the change to the Polish state area, the jurisdiction fell under Stanislaus Adamski, bishop of Katowice. Politically, since 1918 enormous tensions among all three groups of the population have been intensified since 1938. Also in the parishes of the Catholic Church there were disputes, especially in the German and Czech worship services. With the German attack on Poland in 1939, the Third Reich took over the administration of Olsaland with all restrictions against the Polish and Czech population. In 1940, church membership also changed from Katowice to Breslau. The paper examines the most important development lines. 

2016-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Criticism of the theological works of Elizabeth A. Johnson by United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Case study

Anna Maliszewska

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 145-163

The church is founded upon the confession of faith in the true God. For this reason orthodoxy which mean correct belief or correct praise, is for the church a very fundamental issue. And if the ortodoxy is so important, the possibility and risk of heresy occur. So it was during the history of the church, and is no different today. Through the centruries the church has changed practice regarding those who propagate unorthodox thinking. In this paper, we will be show the instance of contemporary intervention of Magisterium and we will dicuss views, which were considered as to be false. The case of Elizabeth A. Johnson, which we are going to analyze, is a fine example of how the contemporary disputes takes place between theologian and magisterium because of broad documentation of these event. For the same reason (voluminous sources) text is to be limited to referencing the views of American theologian and their assessment by United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. However, we will try analyze some views of the author, which were particularly critized by bishops.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The cross and its place in the life and liturgical space of Christians

Sławomir Filipek

Language: PL | Published: 29-10-2024 | Abstract | pp. 177-187

This article shows the symbolism of the Cross from the perspective of the liturgy. First, we will refer to the cross as a symbol, presenting its types and the history of its use in the Liturgy. In order to properly understand the meaning of the presence of the cross in the liturgy, it seems strongly justified to first present the sign of the cross itself, its role in the Church of the first Christians and its origin, as well as the multitude of images and symbols that have been created on the basis of the cross in the course of history. Historically, the Cross began to be used in the liturgy as a procession at the end of the 5th century, while its placement on the altar dates back to the 11th century. The first mention of a cross placed directly on the altar table can be dated to the mid-5th century, but this concerns the East Syrian Church and there is no evidence of a similar custom in the Roman Church at that time. this custom will appear in the West later. The cross with the image of the martyred Christ, recalling the Passion of the Lord in the space of the presbytery, both on the altar and near it, is a clear and necessary sign for every believer.

2024-10-29



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Pope Francis’s Concept of Theology

Existence Does Matter

Anna Maliszewska , Jan Słomka

Language: EN | Published: 10-01-2022 | Abstract | pp. 265-284

Documents published by Pope Francis are theological texts in the full meaning of the word. Francis writes in the first person. It is not only a rhetorical figure, but also an evidence of his “authorship” of the texts. This article seeks to present Francis’s concept of theology. His theology builds on faith, which is prior to any form of reasoning. Reasoning, including theology, is merely a servant of faith: a servant that always remains outside the mystery of faith, or the encounter of a human being with God. Therefore, the first two parts of the article are devoted to Francis’s perception of faith.

The transmission of faith, or evangelization, takes place in the proclamation of the kerygma. Here also, theology plays an ancillary role. The Church lives in the world, and that determines the tasks of theology: seeking an answer to the question about what it means to be a Christian here and now. Thus, theology should study various aspects of our existence, and particularly various cultures, in the light of faith. Francis, however, distances himself from liaising theology with modern sciences.

Francis’s recognition of the primacy of God’s grace leads him to an emphasis on the significance of dialogue in the study of theology. It is interesting how Francis perceives the role of the Magisterium of the Church: it is ancillary not only to faith, but, to a certain degree, also to theology. Moreover, as it turns out, theology understood in such a way draws richly from the works of modern philosophy: existentialism and the related philosophy of dialogue.

 

2022-01-10



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Theological text as a testimony of theologian’s faith

Jan Słomka

Language: PL | Published: 29-06-2020 | Abstract | pp. 266-277

The theological text should be a testimony of theologian’s faith. The article considers three possible ways of such a certificate. First of all, the text should meet the criterion of orthodoxy. He must therefore respect God’s revelation transmitted in the Scriptures and kept in Tradition. According to the teaching of the Catholic Church, the Church’s Magisterium gives an authoritative interpretation of Tradition. However, both the interpretation of the Holy Scriptures and the reading of Traditions require theological skill. Otherwise you risk falling into fundamentalism. This fundamentalism in relation to the Magisterium of the Church is often expressed in two opposing ways: either in avoiding references or in excessive reference to the statements of the Magisterium. The second potential way of testimony of faith is by referring to personal testimony of faith, your experiences. Such “naive” direct testimony should not take place in a theological text. This assertion is supported by two arguments: the requirement of criticism that could not be met by one’s personal testimony and the difference between spoken and written words. However - and this is the third way of presence - the theological text should be permeated with the spirit of faith, that is, grow out of the personal experience of faith, but not through “witnessing” but through internal fidelity to this experience. The article attempts to describe the experience of faith based on the philosophy of Levinas.

2020-06-29



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Paradigmatic Change in the Czech Catholicism during the 1950s and 1960s

Vojtěch Novotný

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 415-430

This paper does not aim to describe the events, which the Catholic Church in the Czech lands has undergone during the harshest times of communist persecution. These facts have been already substantially clarified. It is the complex and ambiguous image of the local Roman Catholic Church that has not yet been sufficiently evaluated. The presented study, therefore, attempts to present and consider this image and the change it underwent in the 1950s and 1960s. The paradigmatic change in the Czech Catholicism can be described as a process of personalization of the Christian existence, i.e. the gradual transition from the life of faith based on the acceptance of the institutionally enforced moral principles and their formal adherence, to the life of faith, which perceives a Christian
believer as an unique person, whose faith is personal and internally involved in the community of the Church.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The relation christology-ecclesiology in the theology of Hans Urs von Balthasar

Magdalena Jóźwik

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2014 | Abstract | pp. 280-291

A number of questions fill the theological heritage of Hans Urs von Balthasar, one of the most versatile of theologians of the twentieth-century. The questions are related to one another as well as subjected to detailed analyses and numerous references. The chrystology – ecclesiology relation substitutes one of such cases, as the Christ Event creates the possibility for the existence of the Mystical Body that is Church. It is the act of creation and the redemption itself that opens the space for realization of one’s existence. It appears that the only way to accomplish it is to accept the mission and follow Christ, especially in His proexistence. In consequence, one believing in the S on of G od is enclosed in the life of Christ and becomes a part of H is Body. Church, as the community which experiences the redemptive presence of L ord, is called up to spread the salvation throughout the world. Following its Founder, who became a human being in specific moment and place, His Mystical Body fulfils its mission in definite time and place as well as through the proclaimed word and the acts of love.

2014-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Das Problem Petri in der zweiten Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts. Von Oscar Cullmann (1952) zu der Enzyklika Ut unum sint (25 V 1995) von Johannes Paulus II

Stanisław Pisarek

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1996 | Abstract | pp. 5-16

Der Artikel ist die Wiedergabe der Vorlesung anläßlich der Inauguration des Studienjahres 1995/96 im Priesterseminar der Erzdiözese Kattowitz, das an die Theologische Fakultät der Päpstlichen Akademie in Krakau angeschlossen ist. Auf dem Hintergrund des Pontifikats von Pius XII. präsentiert und bewertet der Autor zuerst die Monographien von O. Cullmann (Petrus. Jünger – Apostel – Märtyrer. Zürich- Stuttgart 1991) und A. Penna (San Pietro, Brescia 1954). Der ökumenische Dialog in der Sache Petri hat schon zur Zeit des Pontifikats Pius XII. begonnen (Ausgrabungen unter der Petrusbasilika auf dem Vatikan, die Monographien von Cullmann, protestantisch, und von Penna, katholisch). In ihm tauchte die Jakobusfrage, des Bruders des Herrn auf. Angeblich sollte er als Nachfolger Petri in Jerusalem auch im Primat, ihn von dort über die ganze Kirche ausgeübt haben.
Aus der Inspiration des Vaticanum II. ist das Sammelwerk unter der Schriftleitung von R. E. Brown, K. P. Donfried und J. Neumann, unter dem Titel: Peter in the New Testament. A collaborative Assesment by Protestant and Roman Catholic Scholars (New York 1973) entstanden. Schon 1974 erschien seine französische Übersetzung und 1976 die deutsche. Es enthält die Ergebnisse der Erforschung der Frage Petri, die in den USA von 11 Bibelwissenschaftlern unternommen wurde. Dieses Werk war als ein Dokument verstanden, das die Grundlage für den ökumenischen Dialog über die Rolle des Papsttums in der ganzen Kirche bilden sollte. Es geht in ihm um die Antwort auf die Frage nach der Funktion des „Amtes Petri” in der sehr breit verstandenen Kirche. In dieser Hinsicht wurde in den USA die Deklaration „Papal Primacy and The Universal Church” herausgegeben (von Paul C. Empie und T. Austin Murphy, Minneapolis 1974; Lutherans and Catholics in Dialogue V).
Das Bild Petri ist verschieden in den einzelnen Berichten des Neuen Testaments (Petrus der Bekenner, der Missionar, der reumütige Sünder, der Zeuge, der Seelenhirt, der Lehrer, der Sprecher). Die Exegese der Texte über den Petrus im Neuen Testament führt zu dem Ergebnis: Petrus nahm einen besonderen Platz zur Zeit Jesu im Kreis seiner Anhänger wie auch in der postpaschalen Kirche ein. Er übte die Funktion aus, die der Einheit der Kirche diente. Die Fortdauer dieser Funktion in der Kirche nach dem Tode der Apostel war ein Wille Jesu. Die „Petrusfunktion” begrenzte sich nicht auf den einen Petrus, jedoch war sie mit seinem Bild in der Apostelgeschichte und auch in den Paulus-Briefen verbunden. Sie diente der Einheit der Kirche: Paulus war dessen bewußt. In der Praxis wurde sie auch dem Bischof von Rom zugestanden. Die „Cathedra Petri” in Rom war die Instanz, an die man sich in Sachen der Lehre und um die kirchliche Einheit zu bewahren, wendete.
Im Dialog über den Primat Petri disponieren die Polen über eine Monographie über ihn, die von Bischof Kazimierz Romaniuk verfaßt wurde. Sie hatte schon drei Auflagen (1982,1990, 1995). Sie hat jedoch einen populärwissenschaftlichen Charakter (Święty Piotr – Życie i dzieło, Katowice 1995).
In Deutschland hat sich R. Pesch in den 80. Jahren in den ökumenischen Dialog über die Lösung des Problems Petri mit der Publikation seiner großen Monographie eingereiht (Simon Petrus. Geschichte und geschichtliche Bedeutung des ersten Jüngers Jesu Christi, Stuttgart 1980; Päpste und Papsttum 15 ).
Eine mehr konservative Position in dieser Frage hat der Geschichtler und Theologe P. Berglar eingenommen (Petrus. Vom Fischer zum Stellvertreter, München 1991). Er konvertierte aus der evangelischen Kirche und gehörte dann als Katholik zum „Opus Dei”. Von den neuen Methoden in der Exegese der Bibel hat er jedoch die Wirkungsgeschichte der Petrus-Texte im Neuen Testament berücksichtigt. Das „Amt Petri” konnte wegen der Gründung der Kirche durch Jesu von Nazareth nicht nur mit der Person des Apostels Petrus verbunden sein. Nach dem Willen Jesu sollte es auch nach seinem Abgang, in der Kirche fortdauern. Das Petrus Buch von Berglar ist ein Bekenntnis des Glaubens eines Konvertiten an den Primat Petri und an sein Fortdauern bis heute in dem 266. Nachfolger auf seiner „Cathedra” in Rom (Johannes Paulus II). Alles was mit dem heiligen Petrus geschah, hatte den Charakter eines Paradigmas für den ganzen weiteren Verlauf der Ge-schichte des Christentums. Die Kirche von Jerusalem wird jedoch nach dem Jahre 42 (Apg. 12,14) von Jakobus, dem Bruder des Herrn geführt, doch durch die Beauftragung und in Stellvertretung von Simon Petrus. Petrus war das „Haupt” der Apostel, Jesus aber selbst „das Haupt” seiner Kirche. Apg 12,17 sollte mehr in den Diskussionen über Petrus und seine Funktion in der Kirche berücksichtigt werden (Petrus in Antiochien von Syrien, in Rom in Italien). Petrus wirkte in Rom mit ganzer Sicherheit mindestens seit dem Jahr 58 nach Chr. bis zu seinem Märtyrertod unter der Herrschaft von Kaiser Nero (Jahr 64?).
Drei Faktoren haben darüber entschieden, daß Rom das Zentrum der sichtbaren Kirche geworden ist”: 1. Petrus hat in Rom die Kirche geleitet. 2. Das Christentum hat sich von dort auf die ganze von Rom beherrschte Welt verbreitet; 3. Das Martyrium Petri (des ersten „Papstes”) und auch des heiligen Paulus hat in dieser Hauptstadt derzeitigen Welt stattgefunden. Es bleibt das Problem, ob Rom bis ans Ende der Zeit ein Sitz des Stellvertreters Jesu Christi sein muß? Das unter der Schriftleitung des Journalisten R. Niemann herausgegebene Buch Petrus, der Fels des Anstoßes (Stuttgart 1994) muß negativ beurteilt werden, denn die Mitverfasser ließen sich durch ihre Ressentiments entgegen der römisch-katholischen Kirche gesamt mit dem Amt des Papstes völlig leiten und nicht vom Willen nach Suche der objektiven Wahrheit über Petrus und seine Nachfolger auf dem Bischofsstuhl in Rom geleitet worden sind.
P. Berglar hat den heiligen Petrus durch das Prisma Pius II. gesehen, der ihn faszinierte. Am Ende des Artikels zeigt der Verfasser, wie sieht Johannes Paulus sein Paradigma. Das Paradigma des heiligen Petrus in der Enzyklika Ut unum sint, die am 25. Mai veröffentlicht worden ist. Die katholische Kirche ist sich dessen bewußt, daß sie den Dienst des Nachfolgers des Apostels Petrus in der Person des Bischofs von Rom aufbewahrt hatte. Ihn hat Gott als „dauerhafte und sichtbare Quelle und als Fundament der Einheit eingesetzt. Der Heilige Geist unterstützt ihn, damit die Kirche auch andere zu Teilnehmern an diesem grundlegenden Gut mache. Die Fähigkeit des Primates ist ein Dienst, was ausgezeichnet die Benennung des Papstes als „servus servorum Dei” ausdrückt (vergl. Lk 22,27). Das Haupt der Kirche ist Jesus Christus. Die katholische Kirche ist überzeugt, daß sie übereinstimmend mit der apostolischen Tradition und mit dem Glauben der Väter in dem Dienst des Bischofs von Rom das sichtbare Zeichen und die Garantie der Einheit aufbewahrt hatte (Genf 1984). Die Funktion Petri soll in der Kirche fortdauern, damit sie in der Welt unter der Oberhoheit des einzigen Hauptes das Jesus Christus ist, sichtbare Gemeinschaft seiner Jünger sei. Der Papst ladet zur Suche nach solchen Formen der Ausübung des Amtes Petri ein, in denen eine Verwirklichung des Dienstes der Liebe von allen an Christus Glaubenden akzeptabel sein wird.
In den geführten Diskussionen wurde jedoch nicht genug oder vielleicht gar nicht hervorgehoben, daß das „Amt Petri” das große Charisma in der Kirche sei.

1996-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The His tory of Relics of Venerable Euphemia the Piast, Dominican nun of Racibórz

Piotr Stefaniak

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2011 | Abstract | pp. 45–58

Daughter of Przemysł of Racibórz and duchess of Upper Silesia, Euphemia was one of the holy women of the Piast dynasty. At the age of fourteen, she entered the convent founded by her father, the Racibórz Dominicans, where, with time, she became a prioress. Shortly after her death on January 17, 1359, she became famous for miracles. A strong though local cult soon started to grow around her relics, causing her to be called blessed as early as the 16th century. Today, the Diocese of Opole, in conjunction with the unwavering cult of Eufemia, is seeking the beatification of this holy Piast duchess to officially sanction her holiness. It is frequently the case with many holy royalty, such as Hedwig of Silesia, Cunegund or Yolande, that many posthumous remains undergo an evolution. They start with the typical royal funeral, yet end up buried in shrines dedicated to the veneration of saints. So it was with Euphemia. Initially, as a former prioress, she was buried in a chapel crypt in the church of the Racibórz Dominicans. According to the original plans, the chapel was designed as a mausoleum of the Racibórz line of Piasts; hence Euphemia belonged there by birth. At the end of the 16th century, the existing cult transformed the burial chapel into a shrine, particularly after 1738 when the tomb of Euphemia was adopted to the public cult. The relics of the Piast duchess remained in the crypt until 1821. During the secularization of the convent, they were moved to the church of the Assumption of our Lady. In 1930, thanks to the pastor, Georg Schulz, a neo-baroque burial altar was built for Euphemia. Finally, in the spring of 1945, Euphemia’s altar shared the fate of the entire city and was burned by the soldiers of the Red Army. On one hand, the history of Euphemia’s relics testifies to the intensity of the religious cult she received over centuries; on the other, it places her in the burial tradition of the Piast holy women. The story of Euphemia becomes unique in 1821 when her relics were removed from the shrine destroyed by its new protestant owners and were moved to the church of the Assumption. Today the memory of Euphemia continues to grow.

Przeł. Małgorzata Lekan OP

2011-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

August Hlond in France (1940–1944). The Reaction of the Church in France to the Arrest and Liberation of the Primate of Poland

Michał Kłakus

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2013 | Abstract | pp. 387-403

Two weeks after the outbreak of World War II , on 13 September 1939, cardinal priest August Hlond decided to leave Poland. The Primate of Poland hoped that he would render a service to national affairs to a larger extent in exile than in the country. Staying in Italy, and then in France, he was bearing a testimony to the situation in Poland and supporting spiritually and financially the countrymen in exile. He also organized pastoral care for Polish refugees. Arrested by the German police in 1944, he did not agree on a proposal to collaborate with the Nazis. He returned to his homeland in 1945, after about six years of absence in the country. The aim of this article is to supplement the knowledge about the stay of priest cardinal August Hlond in France during World War II on the basis of the materials acquired from the archive of Polish Catholic Mission (PCM) in Paris. The materials retained in the PCM’s archive in Paris allow to supplement the previous knowledge about the life and activity of priest cardinal August Hlond during World War II . These materials are also the testimony to esteem he was held by the representatives of the Church in France.

2013-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The fast and the abstinence in the Church from the Code of Canon Law 1917

Zbigniew Janczewski

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1999 | Abstract | pp. 171-182

The abstinence and the fast are very important matters in the life in the Church. The law on this cases was changing from the year 1917. First change was after the II Vatican Council. The Constitution Paenitemini of the pope Paul VI from the 1966 year among many noveltys gave for the Bishops Conferences the licence to change the Friday abstinence to another kinds of penance. The next changes are on the Code of Canon Law of the pope John Paul II. This article is also about abstinence from meat in the polish particular law.

1999-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Comments on the review of Polish publications on the past of the Roman Catholic Church in Upper Silesia in the 21st century

Wanda Maria Musialik

Language: PL | Published: 20-12-2023 | Abstract | pp. 222-234

The change of the political system abolished censorship restrictions constituting a barrier to conducting historical research. Guided by the awareness of the lack of such barriers independent of the authors, an analysis of the content of selected Polish-language studies presenting the history of the Catholic Church in Upper Silesia was undertaken. The research allowed to determine the advantage of publications published in the Katowice diocese over those of the Opole diocese. There was also a lack of parity between the issues addressed. Presenting problems in terms of relations with Polish culture and history.

2023-12-20



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Selected Issues of Canon Law in the Activity of „Patriot Priests”

Jacek Żurek

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2012 | Abstract | pp. 343-359

The article presents an analysis of the legal status, in the light of the Canon Law Codex of 1917, of the Roman Catholic clergy movement inspired by the Communist authorities (Polish United People’s Party) and the state security office (Ministry of Public Security) in Poland in the years 1949–1956. The movement was aimed at internal diversion in Church institutions and distribution of Marxist propaganda among the Catholic clergy and lay people. On the other hand, in their press articles the activists of the movement presented interesting and innovative concepts for the reforms in the Church, at times even precursory in relation to the changes that were to be initiated by the 2nd Vatican Council. This is confirmed by numerous examples from the Diocese of Katowice and the Upper Silesia area. The article is based on the doctoral dissertation written under the guidance of Prof. Jerzy Myszor, PhD (Faculty of Theology, University of Silesia).

2012-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Translation and "esprit de finesse": Theology in the service of a culturally plural Church in Europe

Margit Eckholt

Language: EN | Published: 25-03-2026 | Abstract | pp. 23-35

The following article reflects on a redefinition of theological work in Europe in times of synodality. The new synodal processes make it clear that theology cannot be anything other than “local”; it grows out of the various places where theologians are active. In the plurality of these places, in  continuous processes of inculturation, theology must
reflect the message of faith, and so its task includes the “art of translation” in and between the diverse spaces. Theology thus places itself at the service of a Church that is a “sacrament of the peoples”, an emblematic image from the Second Vatican Council that requires fresh expression in this era of synodality.

In this sense, the article addresses the question of a theology in the service of a culturally plural Church in Europe. The philosophical approach of Paul Ricoeur is – on a methodological level – the reference for the approach to cultural pluralism in Europe and the search for a Christian unity. Theology can only address the question of the identity and truth of Christian faith by means of translation and recognition and with an “esprit de finesse.” These are the foundations for the current search for a theology that traces synodal paths. 

2026-03-25



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Heaven as the fulfilment of human existence. An outline of the anthropology of heaven in the church kerygma depicted by Polish theologians in the 20th century

Grzegorz Kucza

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2006 | Abstract | pp. 304-318

Theology always serves the needs of the current teachings of the Church that are addressed to a modern man. The subject of heaven and a man destined to live in unity with God was always important in the Catholic Church’s teachings. The article looks at the question of human existence in heaven and gives the picture of it on the basis of some catechisms and sermons. As for heaven, it is the place and the state of supreme happiness and perfection, it is the perfect life in the constant presence of God. A man’s destiny in turn is to be in unity with God. The picture of ‘a man of heaven’ is created by us, by all those who live on earth whereas the fundamental task and the sole aim in life of every Christian is to ‘look for heaven’ and make it more and more real and true.

2006-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Zoning the cyber continent – student media of academic pastoral care in Poland

Rafał Śpiewak

Language: PL | Published: 16-07-2020 | Abstract | pp. 373-392

Benedict XVI called the Internet the “new digital arena” and “digital continent”, at the same time assigning urgent tasks to the Church in order to properly use this space and penetrate the spirit of the Gospel. He realized that “The digital world is not a parallel or purely virtual world, but for many people, especially the youngest, it is part of everyday reality.” His thought was developed and deepened by Pope Francis in the exhortation Christus vivit. He emphasized that since people not only communicate in this space, but treat it as their living environment, there is an urgent need to send cyber missionaries. Their task is to preach
the message of Jesus Christ to young people and to contribute to building the community of the Church. An extremely interesting field to examine how the teaching of recent popes was received is the media of academic pastoral care in Poland. They represent the special case of academic media. The use of new communication technologies still remains a pastoral challenge, especially for young people.

2020-07-16



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Ap hrahat, Synodal Letter, (Demonstratio XIV. Exhortatoria . Patrologia Syriaca I, 573-726)

Andrzej Uciecha

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2013 | Abstract | pp. 18-51

Aphrahat’s Synodal Letter, or his fourteenth Demonstration, is an official letter addressed to the C hurch of Seleucia-Ctesiphon. Aphrahat describes the period of persecution which affected Christians in Persia under the rule of Shapur II . The Persian Church was shaken by arguments and struggles for power, Church leaders abused their position collaborating with state officials. The conduct of the clergy scandalized believers.

2013-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Erection of the Archdiocese of Lvov of the Latin Rite in 1412 and its historical and cultural context

Józef Krętosz

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2012 | Abstract | pp. 316-330

On 15 January 1991 Pope John Paul II reactivated, being currently 600 years old, the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Lvov of the Latin Rite. Marian Jaworski was appointed its first Archbishop. The A rchdiocese was erected in 1375 with its seat in Halych and it was moved to Lvov in 1412 in difficult conditions in the Latin and Byzantine borderland. The aim of this article is to present the rich tradition of the Roman Catholic Church and her creative presence for 600 hundred years on the territory of the present Western Ukraine. The main threads of this article are as follows: the nationality of the “Ruthenian” land in the Middle Ages, Latin missionary bishops in Ruthenia, the erection of a Metropolis of Halych of the Latin Rite, the transfer of the seat of the Metropolis to Lvov in 1412 and its further development, jurisdiction of Bishops of Lebus in Ruthenia and the participation of the Franciscans and Dominicans in the erection of the diocese and in the Christianization
of Ruthenia.

2012-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Benefit of Studying History

Jerzy Myszor

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 5-13

Does the Silesian model of a priest exist? If so, what, and to what extent, affects its specificity: family environment, school, presbytery, parish, seminary? The author of the article by answering these questions draws attention to the historical factors preceding the establishment of the diocese of Katowice: religious, church, social and political ones which contributed to the specificity of a Silesian priest: rural and urban parish priest, churches builder, community worker, political and cultural activist, education officer.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Days of Commemoration of the Dead

Agnieszka Muc

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2010 | Abstract | pp. 45–51

In the recently published Polish translation of De obitu Theodosii by St Ambrose of Milan, we find an inaccuracy concerning the days of commemoration of the dead. The Latin sentence: Et quia alii tertium diem et tricesimum, alii septimum et quadragesimum obseruare consuerunt informs us that some of the Christians observed the third and thirtieth day after death as the day of prayers for their departed while others observed the seventh and fortieth day. However, the Polish editors of the text suggest a different translation: the thirty-third and the forty- seventh day after death. This interpretation is correct from a grammatical point of view but it does not find any confirmation or support in other Christian literary sources. The Apostolic Constitutions – in its Greek, Coptic or Ethiopic version – recommend to Christians to celebrate the third, ninth and thirtieth (fortieth) day after death. The Egyptian monks and nuns from the St Shenoute of Atripe community observed the third, seventh and thirtieth day, as well as the anniversary in terms of prayers for the dead. The tradition of celebrating the third, seventh, ninth, thirtieth and fortieth day has its roots in pagan (mainly Greek-Roman) and Jewish culture and was easily adapted by the Christian Church, especially that some of these dates (third, seventh and thirtieth day) can relate to the text of the Bible. There were some differences between particular regions of the Christian world but it seems that neither of them observed the thirty-third or forty-seventh day as a commemoration of the dead.

2010-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Piacenza (Italy) – The Greatest Pictorial Cycle Dedicated to Saint Hyacinth

Arkadiusz Nocoń

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2016 | Abstract | pp. 356-370

The first images of Saint Hyacinth Odrowąż appeared long before his canonisation (1594). However, it was this very event which generated such a great increase in his popularity. It is difficult today to present a complete catalogue of all the works dedicated to him. Sometimes they were not just single paintings but whole pictorial cycles. The greatest of these, which is comprised of thirteen paintings (on canvas) and one fresco, is found in Piacenza, Italy and was completed between the 16th and 17th centuries. Until the 1940s the cycle was found in the Chapel of Saint Hyacinth in the Church of San Giovanni in Canale. Today it is kept in the parochial archive and is inaccessible to the public. The creators of the cycle are a group of painters who represent the artistic milieu of Cremona, Veneto and Lombardy. At the head of this group was a great artist Giovanni Battista Trotti (Il Malosso). From an artistic point of view the paintings in Piacenza representing the  last and most refined fruit of late mannerism in the Po Valley are among the most important pictorial cycles completed in the 16th and 17th centuries.

2016-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

LAMENTATION IN COPTIC EGYPT

Agnieszka Muc

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 72–84

The lamentation ritual – filled with crying, dramatic gestures and shrieks – is common in many cultures. One of the best examples is ancient Egypt where this custom was part of qereset nefret – „the good/beautiful burial” – and is represented on many reliefs and paintings. This tradition was continued in Egypt in Greco-Roman period. Some literary sources suggest that the custom was also practiced in Christian times even though the Church officially banned it. The lives of St. Pachomius and St. Shenoute of Atripe mention that the monks were mourning at the moment of their superior’s death. The dirges recited by them contain two main elements: the praise of the dead and the complaint of the living who feel abandoned and call themselves orphans. This fact corresponds well with the ethnological data from many other cultures where the dirge is constructed of the same elements. The text of the dirge was placed sometimes on the Coptic funerary stelae. The inscriptions of this kind come from the Antinoe area and can be dated back to the second half of 8th century. Mostly they are autobiographical texts, describing death as a tragedy and using quotations from the Old Testament. They show similarities to many of the ancient Egyptian dirges. It is possible that the lamentation rituals were practiced in the Coptic period although the sources are too scant to state it with certainty or to describe the range of this custom in Christian times.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

St. Hyacinth’s Name in Roman Plaques

Arkadiusz Nocoń

Language: PL | Published: 13-05-2026 | Abstract | pp. 125-140

The article deals with the issue of Roman inscriptions containing the name of St. Hyacinth Odrowąż – a question that so far has been completely ignored in scientific research. As a result of a study undertaken in situ the author collected, verified and translated into Polish for the first time probably all the commemorative plaques that refer to the Polish Dominican. An important result of this research is the identification of two chapels dedicated to St. Hyacinth, in the basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri and in the church Santa Maria del Suffragio, that hitherto had been ignored in Polish works concerning Rome. The analysis of the gathered material points to the wide and longstanding character of the the cult of St. Hyacinth in the Eternal City, maintained both by Dominicans and representatives of the ecclesial hierarchy as also by lay donors. A sign of the vitality of this cult is the fact that the name of the Polish saint was given to children in Italy even a century after his canonization (e.g. the name of the founder of the chapel of St. Hyacinth in the church Santa Maria del Suffragio). The inscriptions that until now were marginalized in studies on the history of the cult of St. Hyacinth are therefore a precious cognitive source, showing its multidimensional character.

2026-05-13



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Local authorities of the Silesian Voivodship and the establishment of the Apostolic Administration in Upper Silesia

Lech Marek Krzyżanowski

Language: PL | Published: 20-12-2023 | Abstract | pp. 135-148

The Apostolic Administration for Polish Silesia was established by decree Sanctissimus Dominus noster on 7 November 1922. It covered an area which hitherto was part of the diocese of Wrocław and which was included in the Polish state when the new borders were drawn up after the Silesian uprisings and the plebiscite. Not accepting any continued sovereignty of the diocese of Wrocław over that part of the territory of the Second Polish Republic, the Polish authorities insisted that a new Church administration unit be created there. The authorities disapproved of the discriminatory practices used by Wrocław bishops against the Polish faithful and therefore demanded creation of a separate diocese. When the Apostolic Administration was created instead, they initially adopted a wait-and-see approach. In addition, the new head of the Administration, Fr August Hlond, who was not particularly well known in Upper Silesia then, aroused concern.
His attitude of tolerance towards German Catholics caused controversy in the first period. The controversy
calmed down with time and mutual trust and willingness to cooperate began to prevail, built on the conviction that the Apostolic Administrator’s line of action was right. The structure he administered, to which Cieszyn Silesia was added, was transformed into the Diocese of Katowice after the Concordat was signed in 1925.

2023-12-20



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

„Dispute concerning human being” and transplantation practice. Based on the book by Maria Nowacka "Ethics and transplantation"

Antoni Bartoszek , Marcin Matysik

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2004 | Abstract | pp. 116-127

There has been an argument going on in the contemporary society about the nature of man. The quest for an answer to that question is growing more and more intense in the face of scientific and technological development. One of the branches of science, which provokes a discussion on its moral and anthropological character, is transplantology. Closely connected with this discussion is the book Ethics and Transplantations by Maria Nowacka.
On one hand, these considerations outline her standpoint on the ethical dimension of such activities, and on the other hand, they embark on a discussion with her opinions. While Maria Nowacka argues that the application of transplantology is therealisation of the Cartesian philosophy, with its mechanistic view of human body, whereas the author of the article argues that transplantation is based upon an integral vision a person. At this point he emphasizes that the „informed consent” of donor is the prerequisite for taking a human organ to be morally right and to express human solidarity. The author also stresses that in the integral vision of human being as a bodily and spiritual unity, the human organism is the sign of a living man. The death of an organism as a whole is the sign of death of a human being. The death of an organism takes place only after the death of its integrating element, that is the brain.
The author disagrees with Mrs. Nowacka’s opinion that a human being is a living organism which is actually or potentially  conscious.According to the author the consciousness element is too much emphasized. The whole truth about man is that he is spirituallybodily unity. This holistic theory of a human person forms the basis of both philosophical system called personalism and the modern teaching of the Catholic Church.

2004-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Development of a psychological measure of penitents’ attitude to confession

Henryk Krzysteczko

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1991 | Abstract | pp. 147-156


Sin, as an act of rebellion against God, is a theological concept which also has its psychological determinants and consequences. Psychology is concerned with understanding and treating the latter. Sacramental Confession besides offering forgiveness of sins, also has the potential to offer psychological aid for the feelings of guilt or unworthiness, which are experienced by the penitent seeking forgiveness. Confession has as its aim a reuniting with both God and man. The Priest is perceived as an agent of Divine mercy and as a significant authority figure. The penitent’s perception of his Confessor plays a role in his attitude toward Confession. If pastoral endeavors are to succeed a clear understanding of the psychological impact of pastoral care is needed. This can only be determined through empirical research into these psychological (cognitive, affective or behavioral) factors. Psychological inquiry does not serve to establish theological knowledge, but helps understand the subjective reception of practical pastoral activity based on these theological or moral foundations, and can serve to promote pastoral care, that is both in accord with Church teaching and more effectively meets the spiritual and psychological needs of the faithful.
This paper describes the development of a short 20-item scale (presented in the appendix) to measure the intensity of positive attitude to Confession among those who go to Confession. Items were selected from a pilot study(N = 100) which gathered responses to open-ended questions. A panel of judges with both theological and psychological backgrounds selected a set of 20 representative and relevant items. These were then included in a larger questionnaire of Confession. In a sample of 460 adults (230 men; 230 women) with an average age of 35, more positive attitude to confession was correlated with frequency of confession (r = 0,40). The scale displayed good psychometric qualities with an average item-scale correlation of r = 0,88. Only two of the 20 items had significantly different mean scores for men and women. The scale appears to differentiate adequately between penitents with indifferent and strongly positive attitudes toward Confession. Further research is needed to determine the sources and psychological correlates of a positive attitude to Confession.

1991-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Mystery and community. Around the encyclical “Lumen fidei” by Pope Francis

Grzegorz Wiończyk

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2014 | Abstract | pp. 177-189

The word mystery occurs numerous times in the contents of the encyclical of Pope Francis and refers to various realities. It is closely correlated with the community of the Church, which is the proper place to make experiencing God’s mystery more accessible, which takes place in the most distinct manner in the sacraments. God’s mysteriousness must be distinguished from the notion of mystery. The mysteriousness is not eliminated by Revelation, as this is of a practical nature and is fulfilled in the covenant of God and human. Each human word is imperfect when compared with God’s mystery, therefore also theological statements are only a hermeneutic element of the polemics of the history which brings God closer, yet it cannot and will never be able to encompass it in its expressions.

2014-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Katechizm rzymski Soboru Trydenckiego a współczesne dokumenty Kościoła katolickiego na temat Żydów i judaizmu

Grzegorz Ignatowski

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2005 | Abstract | pp. 81-89

After the last Vatican Council some authors and documents on the Catholic-Jewish relations emphasize that The Roman Catechism of the Council of Trent issued in 1556 teaches that not all the Jews, Jesus’ contemporaries, are responsible for the Crucifixion. In the first part of the presented article the author explains why the Secretariat for Promoting Christian Unity, which had prepared the Declaration on the Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions Nostra Aetate (accepted by the Council in October 28, 1965, clause nr 4 of which deals with the Jews), did not quote The Roman Catechism, which teaches that no single person but all men are guilty of Jesus’ death: „This guilt seems heavier on our part than on the Jews’, since according to the testimony of the apostle »had they known it, they would never have crucified the Lord of glory« (1 Cor. 2, 8); while we, on the contrary, professing to know him, yet denying him by our actions, seem in some sort to lay violent hands in him”. The passage was cited by some Fathers of the Second Council and by the some post-Conciliar documents. The author of the article is convinced that in the matter of the death of Jesus Christ it is necessary to distinguish between the theologi-cal guilt and the historical responsibility. From the point of view Christian theology all human beings are guilty of Jesus’ death. The Christ voluntarily underwent the Passion because of the sins of all men. The last Council wanted to emphasize that the Jewish people, as a whole, was not responsible for the Crucifixion, from the historical point of view. The main motive of the decision of the Council was the fact that Jesus’ cruel death and especially the accusation of the Jewish people of the Crucifixion have been the cause of the lamentable deterioration of the relations between the Church and Judaism. As the passage quoted from The Roman Catechism dealt with the theological aspect of the guilt of the Crucifixion, it could not be a useful document for the last Council. Moreover, the sixteenth century catechism, from the historical perspective, stresses clearly that the pagans and the Jews were responsible for the Passion. The last part of the article discusses the post-Conciliar documents, which quote The Roman Catechism. The discussion shows that those documents, recalling the 16th century catechism, emphasize the theological mining of Christ’s death. 

2005-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Marriage impediments in VI and VII century according to provisions of the Merovingian councils

Jan Oko

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 169–181

The transition of time between Ancient Times and the Middle Ages is the period when the culture of Europe emerges and when the Roman-Christian and Teutonic cultures meet. It is manifested in many areas, among others, in matters concerning marriage. This article deals with particular issues concerning marital laws, namely marriage impediments. Although the Merovingian councils do not know the term “marriage impediments” itself, they enumerate a few situations which impede contracting a marriage. Successive impediments are described in subsections of the article. They are: consanguinity and kinship, constraints, holy orders and monastic vows. The article also treats re-marriages or marriages with Jews which were also forbidden in some cases. The frequency of above mentioned impediments and study of Teutonic customs enable us, at least partially, to present problems with which the Church of the Merovingian period had to deal.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Dispute over the estate of the diodese of Katowice (in the light of materials from the Vatican Archives of the Secretariat of State)

Michał Kłakus

Language: PL | Published: 20-12-2023 | Abstract | pp. 176-209

The establishment of the Apostolic Administration of Upper Silesia (1922) - Diocese of Katowice entailed significant expenses. The authorities in Katowice believed that along with the territorial division of the Wrocław* diocese, its property should also be divided. The most important part of dobra wrocławskie (the "Wrocław properties & beneficia") was from then on located in Czechoslovakia. The division of Church property was complicated because it was part of a broader issue regarding the existence and role of the Catholic Church in this area. Ultimately, the Katowice diocese did not receive emoluments from the goods of the Wrocław diocese.

The purpose of this article is to present the dispute and how it was to be resolved. We are also familiarised with the activities of the main parties interested in the division of the aforementioned goods, which were the Bishop of Katowice acting in consultation with the Polish government, the Bishop of Wrocław, the government in Czechoslovakia, and - ultimately - the Holy See.

2023-12-20



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Towards ecological ethics

Jan Grzesica

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1980 | Abstract | pp. 139-151

This work concerns the most pressing — except war — danger for the world and mankind: the ecological disaster. The present author tries to define a theological and moral standpoint of the Church to this question, as seen in the light of such ecclesiastical papers as Constitution „Gaudium et Spes”, the document of the Third Synod of Bishops „Justice in The World”, The Apostolical Letter „Octogesima Adveniens”, Pope Paul's VI message to The Stockholm Conference for Protection of Natural Environment and others.
It is the mankind's duty not only to avoid spoiling of the natural environment, but to shape it properly as well. This duty is a moral one and pertains to the problems of moral philosophy. Assuming that, author of this work presents us subsequently some principles of a kind of environmental ethics („eco-ethics”), the aim of which is to indicate, what should man do to protect the natural environment, and to say why should he do so.
As the main source of threats for the natural environment Rev. Jan Grzesica considers the mentality of the contemporary man, his egoism and selfishness, his false hierarchy of values, according to which material goods are the most important — in spite of the order established by God, who indicates us the supernatural values and and the supreme aim as matters of the utmost importance.
Man has been created by God as a being consisting both of the body and the spirit and as such he then has been redeemed by Our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore it won't be enough to protect our world against an ecological disaster if we would clean the atmosphere, soil and water up and re-create the areas of silence only. First of all man must clear up himself and his mentality; he must define his place in the natural environment. Together with the man also the nature has been created by God as well and both constitute an inseparable unity, which is expecting salvation. That is why the mutual cooperation of both — the man and his environment — is necessary. God has submitted the earth to the man, but at the same time He has committed the earth to man's care. The foundation of eco-ethics is the precept of love. Our love towards God implies a deep esteem towards His work.
The man's moral duty is a sort of an ecological asceticism — he should provide for his needs at the least possible consumption, trying to endeavour after an ethical, spiritual and cultural growth. The man's aim should be „to be”, not „to have”.
A Christian, responsible for the world's shape and its future, does not stand in blind opposition to the progress, nevertheless he should stand in opposition against a blind progress. The limitations of human activity throughout the world are defined by the St. Franciscus' respect to nature.
Nature is not „res nullius”, but it is „res omnium”. As a property of all mankind it belongs also to the future generation, because God is the Father of all people and He is the Donor of life for all of them.

1980-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

E-ncyclopedia of knowledge about the Catholic Church in Silesia: the origins and functioning of the online scientific and popularization initiative

Ewa Natalia Szafraniec

Language: PL | Published: 21-05-2024 | Abstract | pp. 100-115

The aim of the following article is to discuss the genesis and long-term development of the E-encyclopedia of knowledge about the Catholic Church in Silesia project, which was created in the academic environment of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Silesia in Katowice. Analyzing statistical data on website traffic collected by the Google Analitycs tool in selected time periods (beginning - mid-life - present), the author attempts to describe and interpret the social reception of the content presented on the website, placing it in the broader media contexts of recent decades (the transition from the use of personal computers to smartphones, immediate access to information, superficiality in its reception). The author notes factors that favor the development of the project - immediate and wide access to Internet resources, the possibility of promoting the website on a large scale through social media, online advertising, and unfavorable factors - "tyranny of the moment", superficiality of reception, randomness of searches, randomness of advertising content. It turns out that these (and other) factors resist unambiguous assessment because they smoothly interpenetrate and interact with each other.

2024-05-21



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The relation "theology - belles-lettres” in historical perspective

Jerzy Szymik

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1991 | Abstract | pp. 63-75

Connections between theology and belles–lettres have a long history lasting more than 2000 years. Their roots ought to be sought in Pauline writings, whose author quotes and interprets the texts of Aratos of Soloi, Menandros and Epimenides of Knossos. Most writings of the patristic period tend to maintain an apologetic attitude towards lay literature. But at the same time there is evidence of theoretical and practical sympathy that the Fathers of the Church felt towards „pagan books”, to be found in Clement of Alexandria’s idea of „kosmika paidea”, St. Augustine’s pastoral advice as well as that of Jerome’s and Basil the Great’s, but most of all in the use non-Christian literature as „praeparatio evangelica”, propounded by Eusebius of Caesarea.
Scholastic theology, which stressed rational perfection of theological discourse regarded literature (especially poetry) as „the lowest of all philosophical exercises” (Albertus Magnus). And yet even the mediaeval approach, exemplified by Thomas Aquinas, Alanus ab Insulis and monastic theology perceived in poetry important allegorical and symbolic values.
A real split took place at the time of post-Tridentine theology, based on extremely rational philosophy of the Enlightenment, which rejected all kinds of „literariness” or „poetry making”. On the other side was the literature which more and more often negated the contents and values of Christian preaching.
It is only in the epoch of the Vatican Council II that we witness a return to ancient closeness, cooperation and creative dialogue; as inspirations of litary nature have been functioning in the theologies of all times. The theology of so called „St. John’s description”, understood as „poetics of faith”, „poietic” theology are just a few selected examples.
Theology and belles–lettres share twenty centuries of „historical experiences” rich in tension and dialogue. And they ought to become a foundation of fruitful interdisciplinary cooperation of post-Vatican Council theology and contemporary belles–lettres.

1991-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Methodology of Spiritual Theology

Jan Słomka

Language: PL | Published: 26-03-2022 | Abstract | pp. 129-142

Spiritual theology deals with the spiritual experience of individual persons. As a branch of theology, it builds on the assumption that every person is an image of God, and thus every human life contains a spiritual dimension. The sources of spiritual theology include any texts describing spiritual life, especially the works of the great Masters, but also the liturgy of the Church. The texts of the magisterium of the Church are also considered as a source, but, unlike in dogmatic or moral theology, their importance is limited. Spiritual theology aims to profoundly understand the inner structure of spiritual life in its various forms and demonstrate their mutual relations. The ultimate goal is to describe spiritual life in a way that helps to “discern the spirits”, to discriminate between the right and the erroneous paths of such life. The nature of the subject matter suggests that phenomenological method should be given priority in the research. Various methods of hermeneutics can also be helpful in the study of the texts. Spiritual theology is closely related to dogmatic and moral theology, but the nature of their mutual relationships is complex. Spiritual theology should maintain a distance towards the modern human sciences: it must not assume their perspective of human being.

2022-03-26



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Martyrology of Polish Clergy from Zaolzie during World War II

Damian Bednarski

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 61-86

In Martyrology of Polish clergy under German occupation in the years 1939-1945, in the part devoted to the Diocese of Katowice, a group of priests from Zaolzie can be found. The reason for this lies in the fact that in 1938 a fragment of lands beyond the Olza River became a part of the Diocese of Katowice. During the Second World War this territory was marked by severe repressions of Polish Catholic clergy. Many priests were put in concentration camps and prisons; a few of them were murdered; still others died after the release as a result of hard prison experiences. It was their admitting the Polish identity and faithful standing by the Church that condemned them to prison or concentration camps. The list of clergy from Zaolzie is supplemented with a register of the Polish priests persecuted by Germans in the years 1939-1945.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Residence of the Discalced Carmelites in Szopienice 1954-1955. Episode of a Struggle with the Catholic Church in the Stalinist Period

Adam Dziurok

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2013 | Abstract | pp. 404-414

The article presents a brief episode of the functioning of a pastoral station run by the Discalced Carmelites in Szopienice in the years 1954-1955. In autumn 1954, two monks: Father Daniel Rufeisen and Brother Lawrence Radkiewicz, with the help of residents, repaired the dilapidated barrack and turned it into a chapel. The communist authorities demanded that the monks close the chapel and leave Szopienice. When the additional fines and administrative decisions on the expulsion of the Carmelites were not effective, the authorities decided to seal the chapel. A month later, in December 1955, they conducted the final liquidation of the convent. The policemen led the faithful out of the chapel by force. Despite many petitions and complaints from local residents of Szopienice the chapel was not reactivated and the monks had to leave the city. This previously unknown case of the fight of the faithful for religious freedom depicts in a context of the anti-Church government’s policy during the Stalinist period.

2013-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Edith Stein (Teresa Benedicta of the Cross ) – a saint for our times

Szczepan T. Praśkiewicz

Language: PL | Published: 04-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 89-102

With reference to the centenary of Edith Stein’s baptism, celebrated in 2022, and 80 years after her death in the gas chamber, the article recalls the essential elements of the message of this Daughter of Israel and Daughter of the Carmel, the order in which she took the religious name Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. It first presents this holy martyr as a patron saint of the Christian-Jewish dialogue, then patron saint of Europe, proclaimed by St John Paul II, and eventually also as patron of women. A significant part of the article is an examination of the possibility of St Edith Stein to be the fifth woman and the third Discalced Carmelite to receive the title of Doctor of the Church, with an indication that she could be recognised as Doctor Crucis in this group. The study ends with a reflection about Edith Stein as a defender of truth. After all, she said it herself that all those who seek truth, seek God, and that the defence of truth becomes the defence of God’s laws.

2023-10-04



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

A. Brent, The Imperial Cult and the Development of Church Order, Concepts and Images of Authority in Paganism and Early Christianity befor the Age of Cyprian

Wincenty Myszor

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2004 | pp. 291-292

2004-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Paths of quartodeciman Pascha in the letters of Ignatius of Antioch

Krzysztof Abucewicz

Language: EN | Published: 31-12-2014 | Abstract | pp. 267-279

Presumably the Church has been celebrating the Paschal Mystery from the beginning of its presence. However the oldest paschal celebration of the Church that is known to us from the early Christian writings is the one proliferated in the second century in Asia Minor. It was based on quartodeciman theology. We may take closer look at that paschal experience mainly thanks to the two paschal homilies: of Melito of Sardis and Pseudo-Hippolytus. Yet, there is another source that exhibits similarity to the two documents and, although underestimated in the modern researches, provides valid view on quartodeciman perception. Moreover, it appears to be predecessor of the both, hence could serve as pattern to certain extent. The referred source is the set of seven letters of Ignatius of Antioch that are dated on the beginning of the second century. Created in the climate of persecution the letters reveal distinctive features of the quartodeciman theology. And it is evidently the theology in which Ignatius has been brought up. What is significant is that the theology appears to be already developed. Ignatius seems to be applying it with deep sense and understanding, like the one who has been nurtured in it. This may mean that the roots of quartodeciman theology go back further. Question is
where to.

2014-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

„Ewangelik Górnośląski” (1932–1939) – „We Will Continue to Serve Faithfully”

Wisława Bertman

Language: PL | Published: 21-05-2024 | Abstract | pp. 82-99

The article recalls „Ewangelik Górnośląski” - a Polish Lutheran magazine published in Katowice from 1932 to1939 by the Society of Polish Evangelicals in Upper Silesia. The weekly was the only Polish Lutheran magazine published in the interwar period in this area. The article, against the background of the situation in the United Evangelical Church in Upper Silesia, established in 1924, in Polish Upper Silesia, sheds light on the creators and editors of the weekly, primarily clergy, well-known Polish independence activists and their efforts in the magazine to awaken national awareness among local Lutherans. The editors' opposition to Anti-Semitism and their criticism of Hitler's actions deserve to be emphasized. Based on archival materials, the issues of financing the weekly, circulations and forms of promotion were also presented.

2024-05-21



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Church in Poland. Studies on the history of the catholic Church in Poland, edited by Jerzy Kłoczowski

Franciszek Maroń

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1969 | pp. 229-231

1969-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

An individual realisation of the linguistic genre of sermon in John Henry Newman’s Parochial and Plain Sermons

Marcin Kuczok

Language: EN | Published: 30-06-2014 | Abstract | pp. 144-158

The aim of the present paper is to analyse the structural, pragmatic, cognitive and stylistic aspects of the linguistic genre of sermon in Bl. John Henry Cardinal Newman C.O.’s Parochial and Plain Sermons. When it comes to the structural aspects, Newman’s sermons lack any compositional schema, described by rhetoric theories. In the Anglican Church of the Victorian era, sermons constituted a kind of “oral literature”, read from the pulpit during the service. From the pragmatic perspective, Newman’s example of life played a special role in his preaching as a means for communicating the Word of God. Newman’s sermons were delivered in a kind of supernatural atmosphere and created a mutual magnetism between the preacher and the listeners. In the cognitive dimension, Parochial and Plain Sermons constitute almost a compendium of Christian dogma, with emphasis on the practical application of theological truths in the Christian life. There are also numerous references to Newman’s personal life. From the stylistic perspective, Newman’s sermons strike with simplicity, connected with the so-called “real style”: Newman uses conventional language, avoids sophisticated rhetorical figures, and provides concrete examples from the Bible, everyday life, and the lives of saints and Church Fathers.

2014-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Cleansing from Sin in Origen’s Homilies on Leviticus

Jan Słomka

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 337–353

Any cleansing from sin has its source in the sacrifice of Jesus – the Only Priest. The sacrifice is of double nature: carnal and spiritual, offered for people in Jerusalem and, at the same time, for heavenly beings in Heaven. The priestly work of Jesus gives validity to the offerings of the Old Testament, is the source of the power to cleanse form sin conferred on the Church, and it will only come to fulfilment with the cleansing of the worst sinner. Thus, the offerings of the Old Testament had the power to cleanse from sin. That power came to an end upon the death of Jesus. For a Christian, baptism is the fundamental, or even the only way to be cleansed. However, one also has a possibility to be cleansed after being baptised, as here, on earth, it is impossible to avoid sin. Origen recognises the cleansing
power of all the acts of fulfilling the Gospel, particularly deeds of charity. He also mentions the confession of sins (regardless of canonical penance). Many times he points to the cleansing which can be granted to us as a result of listening to the Word of God. The cleansing can be gradual or instant. Origen discusses canonical penance separately, as something exceptional and difficult that is performed only once. That kind of penance is required in the cases of murder or denying one’s faith. However, Origen emphasises the superiority of spiritual penance over the canonical practice. Those who die in sin face eternal fire and punishment which will be very painful and will complete their cleansing. The homiletic teaching of Origen on sin and cleansing does not aim at full consistency, it’s style is, thus, vastly different from that of the Latin Fathers, who were his contemporaries.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Understanding of a Body by Prof. Janusz Stanisław Pasierb

Agnieszka Laddach

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2016 | Abstract | pp. 462-469

The purpose of the article is to present the thought of a great Polish humanist, prof. Janusz Stanisław Pasierb about his understanding of the body and the conclusions drawn from it for a man living in the twenty-first century. Sources of the article are collections of essays, sermons and articles. The author of the text showed understanding of the body as soma i.e. corporeal nature of every human being, with particular emphasis on Jesus Christ. Then the author presented the content of the experience of the body in the liturgy. The Church has been also described as Mystici Corporis Christi. In conclusion, the content is summarized and its
relevance for a twenty-first century man is shown.

2016-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

SARS virus vaccine CoV-2. Ethicomoral issues

Tycjan Piotr Kubiak

Language: PL | Published: 04-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 71-88

Society living in the modern world is witnessing constant changes that are taking place in the life space of individuals and societies in the global sense. These changes have both positive and negative effects on humanity. Within the last two years, the world has been hit by the SARS -CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic, which has taken the lives of 2. 4 million people. In the face of the pandemic, the work has begun to develop a vaccine as an antidote to the crisis.

This article outlines the issues surrounding the vaccine, which was introduced to the general public at the end of 2020. Despite the enthusiasm that has been generated by the rapid development of the vaccine, there are still some  issues that point to the imperfection of the received product. The questions that arise are related to the side effects that an unstudied formulation may cause and the process of its creation itself. This article will also show the position of the Catholic Church on this issue.

2023-10-04



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Ethical challenges of the pharmaceutical market

Anna Grychtoł

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 203-218

Because of its enormous impact on the lives and health of people and the involvement of the huge financial resources and the expectation of even greater profits, drug market is the area of the occurrence of numerous ethical challenges. The purpose of this article is to attempt to identify these risks and offer solutions of the problematic situations in the light of the personalistic ethics and the teaching of the Catolic Church. Therefore, the fundamental two questions, to which answers should be sought can be formulated as follows: what are the ethical challenges which are being faced by the participants of the pharmaceutical market? and what solutions to these situations should personalistic ethics and the teaching of the Catholic Church propose? It also seems necessary to indicate the legal system and market rules as insufficient controls the drug market.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Bl. John Henry Card. Newm an (1801-1890). Doctor Ecclesiae ?

Wojciech Surmiak

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2014 | Abstract | pp. 91-110

This presentation is provided two main topics: first, a review of the history of the role of Doctors of the C hurch and how the discernment process contributed to the development of the Church’s understanding of this title, using the recent evaluation
(1997, 2012) and the conferral of the doctorate; secondly, a careful and systematic evaluation of Newman’s fulfillment of the Congregation for the Doctrine ofthe Faith’s Norms and Criteria was offered based upon the commentaries of Pope John Paul II
and his successor Benedict XVI regarding Newman’s eminent doctrine. The final part of the article shows the possibility of Newman’s inclusion in the exclusive college of the Doctores Ecclesiae.

2014-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The place and role of the local Church in the universal Church

Remigiusz Sobański

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1972 | pp. 255-261

1972-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Etniczno-kulturowe styczności polskich i litewskich zwyczajów obrzędowych w pobożności do św. Kazimierza

Vytautas Steponas Vaičiūnas , Alfonsas Motuzas

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2006 | Abstract | pp. 375-390

Traditional folk devotional practices in nowadays Lithuania are found in the Church calendar, among the prayers, hymns and songs of national feasts, memorable days or additional devotions (Hours of Our Lady, the Rosary of Our Lady and of Jesus‘ Name, performed orally or by singing, Samogitian Calvaries, Stations of the Cross, Lamentations on the Passions of Christ and Mourning Psalms in commemoration of the dead. Among them, there are special feasts of different Lithuanian saints and the blessed. In the course of centuries, Lithuania had a lot of prominent people, wise rulers, brave men or sages. Among them there are blessed archbishop George Matulaitis and Michael Giedraitis who are on the way to beatification, but so far not proclaimed as saints. The only Lithuanian saint is St. Casimir. There are quite a lot scientific theological, historical, art research (iconographic) materials about the cult of St. Casimir either in Lithuania, or all over the world, but practically there no materials about the folk devotions and rituals, concerning St. Casimir. Historical sources claim the cult of St.Casimir to be of local origin, i.e., worshiped only in separate regions, having either historical or neighbouring contacts with Poland. Historical facts confirm that: Pope Clement VIII by his breve (1602 XI 07) raised the feast of St. Casimir in Lithuania and Poland to a higher liturgical degree (sub ritu dublici), in other words, proclaimed his cult as local, i.e., for Lithuania and Poland. His successor, Pope Paul V, made it universal and included St. Casimir’s prayers into the Missal and breviary. In 1636 Pope Urban VIII proclaimed St. Casimir the patron of Lithuania, and allowed his feast to be celebrated with solemn liturgy. That is why he bears the name Magnus Ducatus Lituanus. As there are close Catholic contacts between Poland and Lithuania, the aim of the research is to reveal ethno-cultural contacts of St. Casimir’s devotional practices in Poland and Lithuania. In order to reach the purpose, such tasks were raised: firstly, to reveal St. Casimir’s devotional practices in Lithuania; then, to set the origin of these practices and their intercultural ethnic ties. The research done allows to make such conclusions: firstly, the cult of St. Casimir in Lithuania is of local origin, i.e., he is worshiped in separate Lithuanian regions, having either historical, or neighbouring contacts with Poland (Highlands and Suvalkija); secondly, St. Casimir’s devotions consist of 10 customs. They are: 12 stations of St. Casimir’s pious life, processions with palms; women, hiding their hair and faces under a kerchief and walking afoot as a symbol of chastity; a cloth, that vestured St. Casimir’s relics, put into pieces and venerated; fasting; giving alms to the beggars; lying cruciform on the ground, playing with signal musical instruments and singing of hymns; thirdly, from 10 ritual customs, 6 are of Polish origin, 4 – of local origin, 3 – from the teachings of the Church or the personal life of St. Casimir; fourthly, the most ethnographically rich region is eastern and south-eastern Lithuania (Highlands and Dzūkija): 4 are in Vilnius diocese, 2 – in Panevėžys diocese and 1 – in Kaunas archdiocese. Suvalkija (Vilkaviškis diocese) has got 2 ritual customs. All the ethnographic regions have a common ritual custom – singing of hymns. The fifth thing is ritual customs of local origin: women, hiding their hair and faces under a kerchief and walking afoot as a symbol of chastity, a cloth, that vestured St. Casimir’s relics, put into pieces and venerated. Using of these customs witness the respect and love of Lithuanian Catholics to St. Casimir. The sixth thing is that, during the missions of Jesuit sodality, came solemn processions with the palms in honour of St. Casimir. And the last conclusion is that Polish religious culture influenced Lithuanian folk devotions in forming such ritual customs as: walking of twelve stations, devoted to St. Casimir’s pious life, special prayers, said to his honour, singing of special hymns or other sonic expressions, like playing the signal instruments. The results of the research prove the thesis, that devotions to St. Casimir are the obelisk of Polish and Lithuanian spirituality, a symbol of fights for religious freedom, against paganism, Protestantism, Islam and Orthodoxy. They were influenced by the historical – geopolitical situation, by the Jesuit order in Lithuania with their sodalities, colleges and wide area of their missions.

2006-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The Policy of Party Leaders and State Authorities, and the Security Service of the Polish People’s Republic towards Bishop Herbert Bednorz as Illustrated by the Example of Operational Unraveling of the Code Names “Krzyżak” and “Rodzina”

Henryk Olszar

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2015 | Abstract | pp. 30-38

The task of uncovering and paralysing the activity of the Church people was a challenge for the Security Service (SB), which demanded carefulness and scrupulousness. Henryk Bednorz, Bishop of Katowice, was kept under surveillance by the operational forces code-named „Rodzina” and „Krzyżak”. Their aim was to prove that the bishop corrupts civil servants, gathers information from the state institutions and creates the atmosphere of fight, resistance and disloyalty towards the communist state.

2015-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Włodzimierz Osadczy, The Church and the Orthodox Church on a common path. Concordia 1863. From the history of agreement between the Greek Catholic and Latin rites in Eastern Galicia

Józef Krętosz

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2002 | pp. 203-206

2002-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Judah and Tamar (Gen. 38, 6-26) in the Allegorical Exegesis of Saint Zeno of Verona

Wojciech Kamczyk

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2018 | Abstract | pp. 42-63

In the preaching activity, Saint Zeno of Verona, like many pastors of his time, repeatedly used biblical passages in order to instruct the faithful and to convey the most essential truths of the faith. In the context of catechumens’ preparation for baptism he also included the Old Testament story about Judah and Tamar. The article is an attempt to analyse the exegesis of the biblical passage made for a pastoral usage by the Bishop of Verona. He indicates how the allegorical reading of the text helped the preacher to present the most important threats to the religiousness of the catechumens and the need to convert and to receive the sacraments of faith. Finally, Saint Zeno presents the vision of the Church – the new People of God, that he discovered in the biblical character of Tamar.

2018-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

The participation of the Silesian clergy in national and political life of the IIND Republic of Poland

Henryk Olszar

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-1999 | Abstract | pp. 105-135

In a difficult period of struggle for borders, uniting of the Polish lands and formation of the rebearing country the Silesian clergy fulfilled its role very well. The priests, who engaged on Polish side met with vexations and became victims of terror. The Silesian priests’ national and political activity was appreciated with their election to the Seym and Senate of the Republic of Poland, the Silesian Seym and Silesian Voivode’s Counsil in Katowice. The priests were looking also for suitable for them a political organisation. They wished, they worked for such an organisation which the best met the requirements of the Church. It was – according to them – the National Democracy or the Christian Democracy. The society noticed the clergy’s merits rendering for building the independence of Poland and consolidation of its existence. The distinguishing priests were conferred national awards and honorary citizenship of the Silesian cities.

1999-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Churches and religion unions in Upper Silesia on first years after Second World War

Ewelina Małachowska

Language: PL | Published: 05-10-2023 | Abstract | pp. 96–118

After the Second World War the catholic church was the most numerous in Upper Silesia region but there were also few smaller churches and religion unions, which appeared in this area late XIX and beginning of XX century. We can mark the methodists, adventists and Jehovah’s Witnesses. Jehovah’s Witnesses’s activity was much more difficult after the year 1945. There were many reasons such as not clarified legal situation and disapproval of the authorities. However, the sects and religion unions developed in Upper Silesia what we can confirm through the growth of the numbers of members and increase of the numbers of buildings designed to the religious targets. The thesis explains the problem of sects and religion unions starting from the definitions and continuing through their activities noted by the national and ecclesiastic authorities.

2023-10-05



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Metaphysical Argument in Fundamental Theology

Krzysztof Kaucha

Language: PL | Published: 30-06-2013 | Abstract | pp. 52-64

This paper is an outline of the metaphysical argument for the credibility of Christianity. This argument is based on the original metaphysical level present in Christianity, which allows to give answers to fundamental questions about the nature and sense of all reality and human existence although anthropological and metaphysical issues have not been fully discussed in this paper. This article consists of following parts: narrow and wide concept of metaphysics, sources of the metaphysical argument, metaphysical credibility
of Christian Revelation and the Church and effectiveness of the metaphysical argument. This paper very often reminds the teaching of John Paul II containing many suggestions supporting this argument. In the end the author suggests to develop the metaphysical argument by making some kind of interreligious comparative study of metaphysical elements present in all religions.

2013-06-30



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Changes in the organisational structure of the Czechoslovakian part of the (arch)diocese of Wrocław in the years 1918-1977

Jan Larisch

Language: PL | Published: 20-12-2023 | Abstract | pp. 210-221

The text gives a chronological description of the creation and development of the ecclesial administrative structures in the foreign (namely Austrian and since 1918 Czechoslovakian) part of the archdiocese of Wrocław.

               The division of the diocese of Wrocław was mainly an effect of the so called Silesian Wars (1740–1763). Most dioceses, including the episcopal city of Wrocław, were included in Prussia then. A smaller part, with the entire Cieszyn Silesia and a portion of Nysa Silesia, remained under the jurisdiction of Austria and later Austria-Hungary.

The end of the First World War led to the emergence of new states and consequently to changes in the structure of church administration. Cieszyn Silesia was divided between Czechoslovakia and Poland. The church administration on the Polish lands was incorporated into the new diocese of Katowice, established in 1925. In the territories owned by Czechoslovakia, a legally independent Commissariat for Eastern Silesia was established. A similar legally independent Commissariat was formed in Nysa Silesia, a part of Czechoslovakia at that time. The commissioners for both these commissariats were appointed by the Archbishop of Wrocław.

            This structure was then profoundly changed after the Second World War. Immediately after the war ended and because of the then situation of the Polish part of the diocese of Wrocław, the Apostolic Administration of Český Těšín was formed. Although plans had been announced to create a separate diocese, they had to be abandoned because of the political situation at that time. It was not until 1996 that the diocese of Ostrava-Opava was established and thus the ecclesial administration structure got its final shape there.

2023-12-20



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

“I have fulfilled my holy duty”. Righteous Among the Nations Rev. Wincenty Mieczysław Zawadzki (1894–1975)

Maria Misztal

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2017 | Abstract | pp. 315-333

Among people honoured by the Yad Vashem Institute with the Righteous Among the Nations medal, the largest group consists of the Poles. One of them was rev. Mieczysław Zawadzki, for many years the parish priest of the Holy Trinity Parish in Będzin. As early as in the first days of September 1939, he saved the lives of many Jews and continued to help them in the subsequent years. Several years after the war, the saved ones contacted the priest and corresponded with him on a regular
basis until his death in 1975. This article presents the circumstances that led to rev. Mieczysław Zawadzki’s involvement in helping the Jews of Będzin, placing him among the Righteous Among Nations. Moreover, the text briefly describes his pastoral and social work in the light of the anti–church policy of the Polish People’s Republic authorities.

2017-12-31



Journal: Silesian Historical and Theological Studies

Family as a source of moral education

Aleksandra Kłos-Skrzypczak

Language: PL | Published: 10-01-2022 | Abstract | pp. 292-299

It seems that modern society does not need to be convinced of the need to educate young generations, especially the need for moral education. Observing the customs that are made more specific in social and family life, one can notice its serious deficit. The dignity of human life is not only a social-moral value, but should be the basis of every educational process.

This article says that it is up to parents to raise the young generation toward values. The text deals with the subject of the dignity of human life, because the concern for young citizens should begin in the prenatal period, which confirms the position of the Catholic Church. Author presents argument that the family is the basic place of raising children. In conclusion, the text says directly to what values the young generation should be brought up.

2022-01-10