Trinitarian Pneumatology and a Contemporary Theology of Mary: an Analysis and Reinterpretation

In the early 1960s, Roman Catholic theology was criticized for its apparent substitution of Mary for the Holy Spirit. While mariology had a strong presence in the church, pneumatology did not and the criticism of substitution came rather easily. Four decades later, Western pneumatology and contemporary theologies of Mary have undergone significant change and development. Arguably, the twentieth-century revitalization of trinitarian theology is largely responsible for reviving interest in the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Parallel to this revival, contemporary theologies of Mary have slowly emerged. Unlike mariology of the past, however, contemporary post-conciliar theologies of Mary mirror a Christocentric and ecclesiotypical approach. Contemporary Catholic theologies of the Spirit and Mary are well poised to reinterpret the Spirit-Mary relationship. The first two chapters provide historical background and theological context for the project at hand. Chapter one surveys twentieth century papal and magisterial documents for specific instruction on the Holy Spirit and Mary. Chapter two presents and details the call for Catholic theology to end its apparent substitution of Mary for the Holy Spirit. The second chapter also considers pneumatological weaknesses that may enable excessive or improper escalation of Mary. Chapter three identifies substantial insight in contemporary spiritual theology, Western pneumatology, contemporary Eastern pneumatology, and contemporary theologies of Mary. Specific attention is given to discoveries that may theologically inform the Spirit-Mary relationship, including points raised in trinitarian pneumatology. Chapter four investigates latent contributions found amidst cognate issues and related developments that exist in and alongside any contemporary theological study of Mary. A worthwhile reinterpretation of the Spirit-Mary relationship does well to consider and include the theological significance of lesser known or underground movements in mariology. The final chapter restates the most important discoveries, discusses implications of discoveries made, offers evaluation, and articulates concerns for future study