Freedom in Ordinary Theology by Elders From the Study of the Relationship Between Spirituality and Old Age
Abstract
Ordinary theology is one of the emerging streams in theology. In this approach, the accounts of God and creation by those believers who have not undergone formal academic theological training are researched.
The article describes the conception of freedom in ordinary theology of the elderly who have participated in research on the constructions of spirituality and old age. A strong element of negative freedom from prescriptions and regulations is present in the ordinary theology of these seniors.
This does not lead, however, to unreflected, unguided action, but to the possibility of adherence to the Ten Commandments as a guide for empathically relating to others. Sins are then related to forgiveness.
Against the pole of freedom, then, is pro--guidance, which is in the nature of predestination, the meaning of which is subject to reflection or interpretation. The findings can be interpreted both in the context of the need to develop spirituality, which Halík speaks of in his conception of the afternoon of Christianity, but also in the context of theodicy.