Christian hope for a better Europe

Abstract

The credibility of the Church is correlated to the future of Europe. So are related the vision for a Church modelled on the Gospel and the soul of Europe. The Church listen and learns from the world, just as she has a decisive role to play in front of changing scenarios, ethical dilemmas and unprecedented historical turnings. This paper proceed in three steps and will be highlighting above all three key-terms: roots, self-criticism and trust. The first part of this paper emphasises the necessity to experience the need for roots. What is at stake here is to bring together a sense of realism and hope. The second step concerns a much-needed discernment of modernity and modern Christianity. Self-criticism is here presented as a way to challenge, renew and restore the Church, but especially today’s Europe (and the world) to overcome any inability to mediate between today’s culture and the core of revelation in Christ. In the third and final step, this paper proposes an exploration of neglected dimensions in everyday life according to Pope Francis’ vision for the Church in Europe and the world. What is underlined here is then the beauty and richness of the human capacity for trust. Hope is ultimately experienced when truth and freedom are held together.