https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/132753 2026-04-15T05:31:19Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140579 Title: Christology in the infancy narratives in the Gospel of Luke Abstract: This dissertation explores the Christological significance of the infancy narratives in the Gospel of Luke, arguing that they form a theological cornerstone rather than a peripheral prologue. Through literary and theological analysis, it demonstrates how Luke intricately weaves Old Testament typology, prophetic fulfilment, and narrative structure to present a unified vision of Jesus’ identity and mission. Central to Luke’s narrative is the dual emphasis on Jesus’ divine sonship and genuine humanity, revealed through his miraculous conception, humble birth, and early temple encounter. The study also emphasises the theological role of Mary as a model of discipleship and human cooperation with divine grace. Moreover, it explores the socio-political implications of Luke’s universal vision, presenting the stories about Jesus not merely as introductory narratives, but as theologically rich texts that foreshadow the Gospel’s central themes of salvation, justice, and divine mercy. They reveal a Christology rooted in narrative, marked by humility, and directed toward the redemption of all people. Description: B.A. (Hons) Theology(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140576 Title: The heart of the priest transformed through the sacred heart of Christ Abstract: This study aims to gain an in-depth understanding of how the heart of the priest is transformed through the Sacred Heart of Christ. This research is a bibliographical one. The dissertation draws particularly on insights and contributions of theologians Karl Rahner SJ (also explored through Philip Endean SJ) and Hans Urs Van Balthasar (also discussed by Dermot Power), scripture scholar Albert Vanhoye SJ, and moral theologian James F. Keenan SJ. These perspectives from theological literature and reflection are integrated, and insights of vulnerability are woven into the theology of the Sacred Heart and the transformation of the priest's heart. Sacred vulnerability emerges as the primary channel through which the heart of the priest is thus transformed through the Sacred Heart. This process happens through two processes that build and influence each other. The priest is transformed through his interior relationship with the Sacred Heart as he embraces his fragilities in His sight, unites himself through Christ's total 'Yes' to the Father, and surrenders his heart to be transformed through the Cross. The priest continues to be transformed as he is vulnerably responsive to the community in fraternity and mercy, and in turn, he is shaped by these relationships and through his Ministry. Richness can be derived from this perspective of intertwining the devotion to the Sacred Heart and the vulnerability through which the priest's heart is transformed. It can shed light on contemporary sensibilities and challenges related to ministerial priesthood. Description: B.A. (Hons) Theology(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140570 Title: Personalism in ‘Amoris Laetitia’ Abstract: This dissertation investigates the profound influence of personalism on Pope Francis’s Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia (AL). It argues that personalist principles, which emphasise the dignity, subjectivity, and relational nature of the human person, are central to the document's theological framework and pastoral approach to marriage and family life. The research traces the historical development of personalist thought within Catholic marital theology, highlighting key influences leading to its notable expression in AL. A thematic analysis then examines how personalism shapes the exhortation’s understanding of core concepts such as conjugal love as mutual self-giving, marital sexuality as an interpersonal language, responsible parenthood guided by discernment, realism regarding family fragility, and an ethic of mercy driven by conscience and pastoral accompaniment. Furthermore, the study provides a critical evaluation of AL’s application of personalism, exploring its nuances, inherent tensions, and significant implications for pastoral ministry, moral theology, and ecclesiology. The dissertation also addresses the complex and often polarised reception of the exhortation, detailing the theological and pastoral debates it has generated. The fundamental conclusion is that AL’s personalist core marks a pivotal development in contemporary Catholic thought. It advocates for a compassionate, pastorally sensitive engagement with the complexities of marriage and family life, fostering ongoing discussion and diverse praxis within the Church. This person-centred vision seeks to integrate individuals more fully into the Church community through understanding, mercy, and accompaniment. Description: B.A. (Hons) Theology(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140227 Title: Laudato si’ in light of environmental issues as major causes of poverty in Kenya : the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor Abstract: This dissertation critically examines the teachings of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical on the care for our common home, in light of environmental issues as major contributors to poverty in Kenya. It explores how environmental degradation and social injustice are interconnected, with a particular focus on how vulnerable communities in Kenya are affected by ecological harm. While Laudato Si’ is a global call to action, this study takes case study of Kenya, analyzing how its environmental and socio-economic context reflects the encyclical’s core messages. The dissertation situates Laudato Si’ not only as a theological document but also as a framework for ecological ethics, environmental justice, and sustainable development. In Kenya, issues such as deforestation, water pollution, desertification, and climate change are intensifying poverty, particularly among those who depend directly on natural resources i.e. farmers, pastoralists, and fishing communities. Human activities like overgrazing, unsustainable agriculture, and the use of harmful chemicals continue to degrade ecosystems. Additionally, the encroachment of the Sahara Desert poses a severe threat to Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands. These challenges are exacerbated by limited policy enforcement, weak institutional frameworks, and a lack of environmental education. Drawing from the theological aspects represented by Laudato Si’, especially its emphasis on “integral ecology”, the belief that social, economic, and environmental issues are deeply interrelated, this dissertation argues that true ecological conversion must begin with moral awareness and communal responsibility. Pope Francis highlights the structural causes of environmental degradation, including excessive consumerism, economic inequality, and political indifference, all of which are visible in the Kenyan context. The encyclical calls for a radical shift in how humanity relates to the environment, urging both individual and collective responses rooted in compassion, stewardship, and justice. The study evaluates current mitigation efforts in Kenya, including the national ban on charcoal production, the restoration of the Nairobi River, reforestation programs like the 15-billion tree-planting initiative, and Kenya’s participation in the carbon credit market. These measures aim to reduce deforestation, restore biodiversity, and combat carbon emissions while also addressing poverty by involving local communities in sustainable development projects. For example, clean energy projects in Western Kenya led by women’s groups illustrate how environmental action can simultaneously empower marginalized populations and improve ecological outcomes. Moreover, the dissertation emphasizes the role of education, policy reform, and faith-based initiatives in raising environmental awareness and fostering long-term change. It highlights the importance of aligning national strategies with the moral imperatives laid out in Laudato Si’, advocating for policies that protect both the environment and the poor. The encyclical’s influence in Kenya is growing, seen in grassroots movements, environmental campaigns, and Church-led advocacy. Conclusively, the dissertation argues that the integration of Laudato Si’ into Kenya’s environmental and development strategies offers a holistic and ethical pathway toward sustainability. By embracing the encyclical’s vision, Kenya and the global community can work towards a future where care for the Earth and care for the poor are recognized as inseparable and essential to human flourishing. Description: S.Th.L.(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z