O diálogo do cristianismo com as religiões

: uma leitura do modelo místico, na teologia comparativa, à luz da obra de Anthony de Mello

Abstract

Religions, in general, are endowed with a high degree of prominence, which imparts a strong level of influence over human beings. This exponentiality essentially derives from the factor that supports them – the Absolute, the Totally Other, the Ultimate Reality. On the other hand, the created freedom of the human being either allows or denies this Referent the permission to exercise that power over them. When human beings do not exercise this freedom consciously and autonomously, but are instead conditioned by ‘beliefs’ that foster an unenlightened dependence, religions can then become centres of deviation, with harmful and severe consequences for both individuals and societies. When religions assume their status as mediators of the Absolute, the result translates into beneficial actions, since from the Absolute Good no evil can arise. Religions that ‘decentralize’ themselves and assume an absolute status lose their mediating role, failing to fulfil their fundamental objective: to care for Creation, since the Creator does not require care. Focused on centre, religions gain greater credibility, a recognition that extends to all areas and structures of the community with which they interact. This was the great contribution brought by Anthony de Mello in his life and work: to enable each person, whether a member of a religion or not, to be endowed with the fundamental premise of Awakening, which is grasped through consciousness, maturity, and freedom. Every human being can have easy access to this ‘basic spirituality’, the seed of a commitment to caring for others. Through Interreligious Dialogue, religions can be the most genuine and powerful sign for peoples to act in this ‘kairotic present’ offered to us by reality.

Date of Award	22 Jul 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	José Pedro Lopes Angélico (Supervisor)