Sensus fidei fidelium : legal and ecumenical reflection

Abstract

Two documents of the International Theological Commission from 2011 and 2014 constitute a source of inspiration for undertaking important research in the areas of ecclesiology, ecumenical theology and canon law. What is located in the latter area is — as it is attempted to meticulously present in this study — a contemporarily relevant issue whether sensus fidei fidelium is the meaning of the Church law. Indeed, with the awareness that the legal structure of the Church cannot take into account the universal service of redemption, according to the unquestionable paradigm: the Church law is the law of freedom. We can hope that the results of research “programmed” in such a way, open to the “exchange of gifts” in the ecumenical dialogue, will positively influence the intensification of the pastoral efforts of the entire People of God, guided by the Holy Spirit along the ways of faith revival — in an indefatigable evangelization and construction of Church communio. Indeed, time will tell whether the ten-year-long research conducted by the council of theologians on the issue of sensus fidei fidelium in the life of the Church — having many points in common with the vital issue of Church synodality — fulfilled their task sufficiently enough.