THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE AFRICAN FATHERS OF THE CHURCH TO PNEUMATOLOGY

  • Gabriel Mendy C.S.Sp., Ph.D.

Abstract

Broadly understood, pneumatology is the branch of theology that studies and systematically articulates the nature, presence, mission, charisms, and function of the Holy Spirit in the Trinity, creation, redemption, and the life and ministry of the Church. Pneumatology i1s, therefore, a wide ranging discourse on the third person of the Trinity based on Scripture, Tradition, the writings ofthe Fathers of the Church, the liturgy, and the Magisterium. In this article that specifically focuses on the “Contributions of the African Fathers of the Church to Pneumatology,” I will first present the preliminary questions and concerns on the Holy Spirit that were addressed by St. Irenaeus and St. Basil in the East. Secondly, I will outline three of the African Fathers’ theological expositions on the Spirit in response to these questions and controversies. Different aspects of their pneumatology will be examined in this section. This will disclose the development of thought on the subject of the Holy Spirit. Finally, I will synthesize their insights and highlight their contributions that are endorsed by some Catholic theologians, in order to, determine the influence ofthese prominent African Fathers of the Church.

Published
2024-07-13
Section
Articles