LA THÉOLOGIE DU SURNATUREL D'HENRI DE LUBAC

Henri de Lubac's reflection on the question of the relationship between nature and grace marked the theology of the last century and continues to be debated on the international theological scene, far beyond the academic sphere. The opening of Cardinal de Lubac's beatification process in 2023 confirms the importance of his theological work for today's Church and invites us to explore one of its most debated points: his theology of the supernatural.

The conference will consist of three parts.
 
The first aims to make a status quaestionis, highlighting the topicality of the debate against the background of its historical roots. In what context was the 1946 book Surnaturel. Études historiques? How was it received then and is it received today? How was it innovative and why did it have such an impact?
 
Secondly, we will examine the notion of ‘nature’, which is the pendant of the question of the supernatural. What anthropological nature are we talking about? Does Fr. de Lubac's position break with or take up that of St. Thomas Aquinas? Did the Second Vatican Council mark a turning point in the evolution of this concept and, by extension, of the relationship between nature and grace?

Finally, on Saturday morning, the theological debate will open the door to the spiritual, mystical and pastoral implications of the positions taken by Fr. de Lubac in his theology of the supernatural. The aim will be to draw lessons from it for the spiritual life of Christians and for their mission in the Church in a changing cultural context'.