Crucial choices
Dogmatics is not a static whole systematic reflection on Christian faith. It is itself part of history and participates fully in it. Sometimes even colleagues in the theological faculty still have the idea that dogmatics is a field that pretends that God can be fully comprehended that everything can be explained. Some might even think that the best theologian is the best believer. That is certainly not what we imagine that dogmatics is all about. It is a reflection on practices of faith on the actual relationship with God informed by the Bible and the teaching of the Church. Sound reflection on the Christian faith is a task that has to be done by every generation. Sheer repetition of what former generations said and wrote would be irresponsible. Every age is confronted with new challenges. The promise of the Holy Spirit should encourage us to fresh reflection.