Theology of Creation: The Collected Essays of Peter Damian Fehlner, OFM Conv: Volume 7

Theology of Creation collects twelve essays by Peter Damian Fehiner, a renowned Franciscan scholar and theologian. The essays explore various aspects of creation, including the relationship between God and creation, the nature of created beings, and the significance of creation for human life. Fehiner draws on a wide range of sources, including Scripture, tradition, and philosophy, to develop a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of creation.

In the first essay, "The Mystery of Creation," Fehiner argues that creation is a mystery that can never be fully comprehended by human reason. However, he also maintains that creation is not irrational or chaotic but rather a manifestation of God's wisdom and love. In the second essay, "The Goodness of Creation," Fehiner explores the idea that creation is good. He argues that creation is not merely good in the sense that it exists but also good in the sense that it is ordered toward a purpose.

In the third essay, "The Fall and Sin," Fehiner discusses the effects of the fall on creation. He argues that the fall has disrupted the harmony of creation and introduced sin and suffering into the world. However, he also maintains that creation is not irreparably damaged by the fall and that it can be restored through Christ's redemption.

In the fourth essay, "The Incarnation," Fehiner explores the relationship between God and creation in the Incarnation. He argues that the Incarnation is the supreme manifestation of God's love for creation and that it reveals the true nature of creation. In the fifth essay, "The Eucharist," Fehiner discusses the significance of the Eucharist for creation. He argues that the Eucharist is a participation in the Incarnation and that it nourishes and sustains creation.

In the sixth essay, "The Church and Creation," Fehiner explores the role of the Church in relation to creation. He argues that the Church is called to be a steward of creation and to promote its flourishing. In the seventh essay, "The Human Person and Creation," Fehiner discusses the relationship between the human person and creation. He argues that the human person is a microcosm of creation and that he is called to reflect God's glory in the world.

In the eighth essay, "Ecology and Creation," Fehiner explores the relationship between ecology and creation. He argues that ecology is a concern for the integrity of creation and that it is a Christian responsibility to care for the environment. In the ninth essay, "Science and Creation," Fehiner discusses the relationship between science and creation. He argues that science can provide valuable insights into creation but that it cannot replace theology.

In the tenth essay, "Art and Creation," Fehiner explores the relationship between art and creation. He argues that art is a reflection of the beauty of creation and that it can help us to understand the world in a deeper way. In the eleventh essay, "Music and Creation," Fehiner discusses the significance of music for creation. He argues that music is a gift from God and that it can help us to connect with the divine.

In the twelfth and final essay, "The Future of Creation," Fehiner reflects on the future of creation. He argues that creation is not static but rather dynamic and that it is moving toward a final goal. He also maintains that the future of creation is in God's hands and that it is a source of hope for all Christians.