Spirituality Studies 89 Georges Antaby 2 Methodology This study adopts a comparative theological approach to examine how the patristic tradition is received in twentieth-century theology through the works of Placide Deseille, Jean Daniélou, and Olivier Clément. Rather than offering a comprehensive history, it focuses on representative interpretations that reveal distinct ways the Fathers shape doctrine, spiritual life, and ecclesial practice. The research proceeds through a qualitative interpretive analysis of key writings from these authors. Their texts are examined in order to determine how the patristic tradition functions within their theological frameworks and how it shapes the relationship between doctrine, spiritual life, and ecclesial practice. The central methodological question guiding the study is therefore: what theological role does the patristic tradition play in contemporary theology? While often grouped under ressourcement, the patristic revival displays significant methodological diversity, particularly in relating theology to lived spiritual practice – an area this study seeks to clarify. This article addresses this gap by proposing a comparative framework based on three analytical criteria, each corresponding to a fundamental dimension of patristic theology. • Ascetical-experiential: theology as grounded in spiritual transformation and contemplative practice. • Doctrinal-historical: theology as ensuring continuity of the apostolic faith. • Symbolic-dialogical: theology as a language mediating the Christian mystery within culture. The selection of Deseille, Daniélou, and Clément reflects a deliberate methodological choice. Deseille, Daniélou, and Clément each represent one of these trajectories: ascetical, doctrinal, and symbolic. The study argues that these are not competing models but complementary dimensions of a unified patristic vision. The originality of this study lies in proposing an integrative triadic framework, ascetical, doctrinal, and symbolic, for interpreting the modern reception of the Fathers. Rather than treating these approaches as competing theological systems, the article argues that they correspond to complementary dimensions of a single patristic vision in which theology, spiritual life, and ecclesial practice remain intrinsically united. This framework guides the analysis and supports the conclusion that a renewed theology of communion requires the integration of spiritual transformation, doctrinal continuity, and symbolic mediation within the life of the Church.
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