The Catholic Culture Podcast Episode 38 - Garrigou-Lagrange, The Sacred Monster of Thomism - Matthew K. Minerd
May 15, 2019
In this discussion, philosopher Matthew K. Minerd, a translator of Réginald Garrigou-Lagrange's works, dives into the life and legacy of this important theologian. They explore themes from Garrigou's latest translation, like the interplay of mystery in spirituality and material existence. Minerd emphasizes the necessity of distinguishing between the natural and supernatural in theology. He also addresses common misconceptions about Garrigou, asserting his relevance in contemporary philosophical discourse and the critical role of common sense in understanding faith.
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A Dominican Intellectual With Two Pillars
- Garrigou-Lagrange combined rigorous Thomistic metaphysics with spiritual theology across a long Angelicum career.
- His major works include De Revelatione and The Three Ages of the Spiritual Life, shaping 20th-century Dominican thought.
Controversy Shaped His Reputation
- Garrigou-Lagrange is widely remembered for opposing aspects of Nouvelle Théologie, notably Maurice Blondel and some Jesuits.
- That controversy hardened his reputation as resistant to theological change in mid-20th-century circles.
Knowledge Is Chiaroscuro
- The book's theme is 'intellectual chiaroscuro': knowledge mixes clear certainties and deep obscurities.
- Garrigou stresses both the mystery in matter and the blinding eminence of knowing God.
