Christocentric Communio: A Proposed Synthesis of Haecceitas and Circumincessio as an Embodiment of the Franciscan Tradition in the Postmodern Times

• Main Author: Del Prado, Maricar
• Format: text
• Published: Archīum Ateneo 2019
• Subjects: n/a
• Online Access: https://archium.ateneo.edu/theses-dissertations/382
• Institution: Ateneo De Manila University

The present world is marked by inimical forms of Individualism and Collectivism. Individualism in the sense that a person cares no other than the self: apathy, selfishness, sadism, and indifference. Collectivism in the sense that a group considers others irrelevant with a value system that is effective only for one‘s kin or institution: discrimination, prejudice, sexism, and stereotypes. In this era where unity seems to collide, and division seems to thrive, people can sense the need for dialogue. It is essential to be rooted in faith and make a stand that amidst many changes, there are unbroken realities that have their ultimate foundation in Jesus Christ. This thesis covers the Christological theme of communion in the Franciscan Tradition. This study is a venture to rediscover the theologies of the Franciscans such as Bonaventure‘s circumincessio (Trinitarian love) and John Duns Scotus‘ haecceitas (individuality or individuation) that seem to be auspicious today. The researcher proposes that Bonaventure‘s Trinitarian love and Scotus‘ individuation can resolve the tension between Individualism and Collectivism. Thus, serves as an antidote to the negative indifference and hostile agenda of some postmodern thinkers. This thesis is a re-interpretation that serves as the convergence of the past and present analyses. ―Christocentric Communio‖ is a more adequate understanding of love and goodness in harmony and in diversity. It is faithful to the faith, intelligible in the world, and empowers humanity in union with the Trinity. The present world is marked by inimical forms of Individualism and Collectivism. Individualism in the sense that a person cares no other than the self: apathy, selfishness, sadism, and indifference. Collectivism in the sense that a group considers others irrelevant with a value system that is effective only for one‘s kin or institution: discrimination, prejudice, sexism, and stereotypes. In this era where unity seems to collide, and division seems to thrive, people can sense the need for dialogue. It is essential to be rooted in faith and make a stand that amidst many changes, there are unbroken realities that have their ultimate foundation in Jesus Christ. This thesis covers the Christological theme of communion in the Franciscan Tradition. This study is a venture to rediscover the theologies of the Franciscans such as Bonaventure‘s circumincessio (Trinitarian love) and John Duns Scotus‘ haecceitas (individuality or individuation) that seem to be auspicious today. The researcher proposes that Bonaventure‘s Trinitarian love and Scotus‘ individuation can resolve the tension between Individualism and Collectivism. Thus, serves as an antidote to the negative indifference and hostile agenda of some postmodern thinkers. This thesis is a re-interpretation that serves as the convergence of the past and present analyses. ―Christocentric Communio‖ is a more adequate understanding of love and goodness in harmony and in diversity. It is faithful to the faith, intelligible in the world, and empowers humanity in union with the Trinity.