Citation

Lösel S. Mod. Theolog. 2008; 24(1): 23-49.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1468-0025.2007.00426.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In this essay, I analyze von Balthasar's ecclesiology against the backdrop of Vatican II and identify its ecumenical challenges. I demonstrate how von Balthasar's ecclesiology reflects the last council particularly in terms of its integration of ecclesiology and mariology, its gendered conceptualization of the church and its hierarchy, and its reaffirmation of papal primacy. From a Protestant perspective, I have, however, a number of critical questions. First, I question von Balthasar's sacred sociology, which ultimately privileges the magisterium as the decisive source of divine revelation. Second, I point out the peculiarities of von Balthasar's typological interpretation of scripture and its consequences for his ecclesiological vision. Finally, I take issue with his outdated binary gender anthropology.