The Balthasar Reader

Hans Urs von Balthasar, born in Lucerne on 12th August 1905, is one of the magisterial figures of contemporary theology. Out of a creative encounter with the great minds whose religious and human vision has shaped our world, he has produced a rich body of work. In 112 representative texts, this book provides a comprehensive view of the key themes of von Balthasar's life and work. These characteristic texts also allow access to the fullness of faith itself. As the major section headings show, these selections touch on all the great themes that can occupy a person reflecting on the Christian faith: the human being, the church, life in faith and consummation. Introducing the reader is a 50-page "portrait" of von Balthasar which describes the personal encounters that have influenced him (Pryzwara, Barth, de Lubac, Adrienne von Speyr) and the chief aspects of his theological achievement.