JOURNAL "DIALOGUE"

ECCLESIOLOGY OF ARCHPRIEST GEORGES FLOROVSKY

Guram Lursmanashvili — 2024-02-29

Ecclesiology was a pivotal topic in twentieth-century theology, and among the prominent theologians of that era, Archpriest Georges Florovsky left an indelible mark on this field. The aim of our article is to identify the main features that characterize Florovsky’s vision of ecclesiology. According to Florovsky, ecclesiology is not merely a component of Christology but an essential part, without which Christology itself would be incomplete. In Florovsky’s ecclesiology, this emphasis on Christology finds its roots in the Pauline understanding, where Christ is recognized as the pillar of the Church’s unity. It’s noteworthy that Florovsky, in discussing ecclesiology, distinctly delineates between the roles of Christ and the Holy Spirit.
When discussing the Church, Florovsky employs nearly all allegorical comparisons available in his time. He particularly underscores
the significance of the bishop’s personality within the Church. According to him, the institution of the bishop possesses a mystical nature and is essential for preserving the unity of the Church.

IS SALVATION POSSIBLE OUTSIDE THE CHURCH?

Davit Nebieridze — 2024-02-29

Exclusivism, inclusivism, and pluralism are three widely recognized theories in the field of the theology of religions, exploring different perspectives on truth and salvation across various religious beliefs. Discussions around these theories can lead to diverse conclusions. However, it is essential to bear in mind that the ultimate decision regarding the redemption or non-redemption of individuals rests solely within the jurisdiction of God. Human beings can only engage in speculative contemplation on this matter.
These theories essentially emerge from human conjecture based on the teachings of Holy Scripture. Through careful analysis and deliberation of these theories, one can argue that the Church represents the authentic path guiding individuals towards salvation. Nevertheless, it is plausible that God may have numerous other ways and methods of granting salvation to individuals.

CHRISTOLOGICAL AND PNEUMATOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST

Gocha Barnovi — 2024-02-29

When discussing the Holy Eucharist and the Church in general, both their Christological and pneumatological aspects are consistently emphasized. One does not exist without the other. However, the existence of these aspects should not lead theologians to emphasize different directions. In the context of ecclesiology, it is essential to acknowledge one truth: Christology, ecclesiology, and pneumatology represent a unified reality of human deification. What is indisputable is that all three aspects are linked to the manifestation of God’s Word. Therefore, the connections between them are so close that considering them independently creates significant soteriological problems. The teaching of the cooperation of these aspects is rooted in the theology of the Apostle Paul and is consistently reiterated and developed throughout the patristic tradition.

APOSTOLIC ADMINISTRATION OF THE LATIN RITE IN GEORGIA - 30 LOOKING THROUGH THE PRISM OF THIRTY YEARS OF HISTOR

Nugzar Bardavelidze — 2024-02-29

In 2023, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Apostolic Administration of the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church in Georgia and the South Caucasus. Throughout its three decades of existence, the Catholic Apostolic Administration has undertaken significant initiatives, including the restoration and modernization of old, damaged church buildings. This effort not only revived these structures but also transformed them into multifunctional spaces suitable for public meetings. In addition to restoring existing churches, the Apostolic Administration, under the leadership of Apostolic Administrator Bishop Giuseppe Pazzotto and his vicar Father Gabriele Bragantini, played a pivotal role in the construction of new church buildings with modern architectural designs. These new churches were strategically established in cities and villages where Catholic presence was lacking or where churches had been transferred to other denominations. In total, the Apostolic Administration of the Latin Order has erected ten new Catholic churches across different regions of Georgia, each distinguished by its original architecture. The interiors of these newly built temples boast high-level artistic wall paintings. Additionally, more than ten new Catholic chapels were constructed, complemented by extensive restoration work on existing church buildings. As a result, the apostolic administration has successfully ensured that all active Catholic parishes throughout the country have access to churches and chapels

GENERAL-PHILOSOPHICAL OVERVIEW OF SCIENCE AND RELIGION RELATIONSHIP

Bakar Kavtaradze — 2024-02-29

The primary focus of this paper revolves around the intricate relationship between science and religion. The author acknowledges
the complexity and controversy inherent in this topic, attributed to its multi-layered nature. To address this complexity, the author initiates the discussion at two fundamental levels: the nature of science and the basic attributes of religion. Proceeding from these foundational levels, the author utilizes Ian Barbour’s four models (Conflict, Independence, Dialogue, and Integration), along with insights from scholars like Alister McGrath, to explore the four possible relationships between science and religion. The intention is not to resolve or champion a specific model as correct. Instead, the author’s primary goal is to present information and offer a comprehensive overview of this nuanced issue

“I AM THE WAY’’… (LETTERS ON CHRISTIANITY)” BY ZURAB KIKNADZE

Zurab Murvanidze — 2024-02-29

The paper reviews the book “I am the Way...” (Letters on Christianity) by Zurab Kiknadze, delving into its philosophical and theological aspects. The article closely examines the title of the book, carefully selecting key chapters that cover various topics. It provides personal observations and analytical insights into the discussions contained within these chapters

MYSTERY OF THE CHURCH AND THE MYSTERY OF THE HOLY TRINITY

John Zizioulas — 2024-02-29

This article emphasizes the significance of depicting God throughout history and in the church, while also presenting the Orthodox
tradition’s approach to such depictions. In Orthodoxy, an icon signifies the presence of the depicted person while maintaining its transcendence. This presence is considered hypostatic and personal, as emphasized by Zizioulas. Following a brief overview of the fundamental doctrines of Orthodox iconography, the article addresses a challenging question raised by some theologians: whether the Holy Trinity can be depicted in creation. The possibility of depicting the Holy Trinity is affirmed, stemming from the depiction of the Logos, the Son of God, as the Holy Trinity coexists in Christ. The subsequent topic explores the apocalypse of God. Zizioulas draws upon the works of the fathers and the liturgical life of the church to create icons and symbols as a unique means of integrating creation with God. The hypostasis imparts truth and reality to the symbol. Only through the icons and symbols offered by the church, with its mysteries, can we experience a union of God and creation, akin to what was accomplished in Christ. Finally, Zizioulas echoes St. Maximus, asserting that the eternal presence, presently hidden by the icons, will only be revealed in the eschaton.