Pope Urges Overcoming Exegesis-Theology Split

(October 15, 2008) Pope Benedict XVI addressed the world Synod of Bishops to propose overcoming divisions between exegesis and theology that can lead to a reading of the Bible without faith. The Pope encouraged this effort in an address Tuesday, drawing from his book of personal notes, and seated as normal at the centre of the synod hall. He explained that his talk was based on the work he is doing to complete the second volume of his book "Jesus of Nazareth." The Holy Father highlighted the criteria offered for the interpretation of Scripture by the Second Vatican Council in "Dei Verbum," No. 12. The Holy Scripture must be read and interpreted in the sacred spirit in which it was written." The living tradition of the whole Church must be taken into account along with the harmony which exists between elements of the faith." The Pontiff expressed his view that in general, exegetes take into account the first principle -- the unity of Scripture. But, they often neglect the second -- the living tradition of the whole Church. This interpretation, the Pope continued, creates a wall between exegesis and lectio divina, and causes confusion when it comes to preparing homilies. With this perspective, Scripture cannot be "the soul of theology," he contended, and theology ceases to be the interpretation of Scripture in the Church. The life and mission of the Church demands overcoming such a dualism between exegesis and theology, the Holy Father affirmed. They are, rather, dimensions of the same reality.
Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone spoke about sparking youthful interest in the Bible when he addressed Tuesday, the world Synod of Bishops.The cardinal referred to three statements from the Holy Father that indicate his outlook on Scripture: "If the holy Book is consulted with due attention, young believers will find an indispensable guide or compass, and the meeting with the Bible will also become a meeting with Christ." But, Cardinal Bertone acknowledged, according to the summary of his statement released by the Vatican, the Bible often does not "rouse particular interest and affection in the young, especially adolescents."
The Synod of Bishops in Rome, discussing on the Word of God continued into Tuesday afternoon, emphasised the Word of God, while being at the centre of Catechism, and is unknown to the catechumenate in the African context. Because of this, there is a need to rethink the relationship between catechism and the Biblical apostolate. It is also essential and important to relate the Mystery of the Word of God as well as the Eucharistic Mystery. Further, the Word of God inspires all the pastoral ministry of the Church and therefore it is necessary to rethink or revise the formation in the large seminaries and in the institutes for the religious persons. The members at different levels emphasised the Mission aspect, sufferings and service of the word of God to humanity.