The Thomistic Institute Creation as Relation: An Existential Consideration – Dr. Robert McNamara
Jan 5, 2026
Dr. Robert McNamara, a lecturer in philosophy at St. Patrick’s Pontifical University, discusses the concept of creation as a continuous act of dependence on God. He explores how our existence is a gift meant to be joyfully accepted, linking divine creation to human experience. McNamara emphasizes that to exist is inherently good and highlights the relationship between divine fidelity and our daily lives. He also addresses the challenge of suffering, presenting Christ's incarnation as a response to the problem of evil, ultimately encouraging a personal dialogue with God.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Creation As Emanation Of Being
- Creation ex nihilo means all that exists apart from God emanates from God as being itself.
- God is being itself, so creatures participate in being as finite likenesses to the divine source.
Being Is The Creature's Relation To God
- The creature's passive reception of creation is identical with its being; our existence is the act of God's creative gift.
- Therefore our very existence is a continuous relation of absolute dependence on God.
Humans Can Recognize And Rejoice
- Humans uniquely can understand and freely accept the gift of being because of intellect and will.
- Full reception of the gift is expressed in taking joy and gratitude for existence.
