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Implications of Bracken's Process Model of the Trinity for a Contemporary Feminist Theology
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 09 September 2014
Abstract
One of the primary concerns of feminist theology is to promote the full humanity of women and men by questioning forms of thought that demean human persons. The Christian doctrine of a triune God is open to such critique, because it has traditionally been presented in terms that are exclusive and even oppressive to some. Joseph A. Bracken, S.J. proposes a process model of the Trinity that is significant for contemporary feminist theology, because it potentially promotes human flourishing. It does this in at least two ways. First, because this model does not rely on relationships of origin to distinguish the divine persons, it invites the development of inclusive metaphors that embrace human diversity. Secondly, it proposes a nonhierarchical, interrelational view of the Trinity that is arguably compatible with the faith experience of persons who are subject to any sort of oppression. Further, this model illustrates the participation of human persons in the dynamic interrelationship shared by the divine persons.
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References
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12 Ibid.
13 Ibid.
14 Ibid.
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16 Ibid.
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66 Ibid.
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68 Ibid.
69 Ibid.
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91 Ibid.
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