At the invitation of the President of the Pontifical Academy of Theology, I had the honor of attending the inauguration of its new headquarters and what His Excellency Antonio Staglianò, the Academy’s President, referred to as the “new PAT.”
His Excellency Mons. Edgar Peña Parra, Substitute for the Secretariat of State, addressed the attendees, emphasizing that the Academy’s renewed mission includes fostering an open, constructive dialogue. This dialogue extends beyond Christian denominations to engage meaningfully with respected representatives of non-Christian religions and even those who do not believe, broadening theological engagement to a more inclusive audience.
He further underscored the importance of rethinking our approach to understanding. Future theology, he noted, will need to explain anew that faith represents “a true knowledge” since, “in the light of Christ, it is possible to develop a view of the world and life that encompasses all that is authentically human. It offers the taste of love to life, enabling encounters among all people with the Truth that saves, redeems, liberates from evil, and frees from all forms of slavery, internal and external.”
I am pleased to affirm that both the Foundation and I consider collaboration with the Pontifical Academy of Theology a vital source of guidance and inspiration.