Theological Foundations new file

15 Introduction lines constitute a common Christian heritage, I will not discuss them here in detail. The task which has been undertaken in this work is to investigate the fundamental assumptions and theological truths on the basis of which the formation of the Christian attitude is to take place. For it is more often the case that mere guidelines and instructions as to how we should live are the object of in moral teaching (and hence are usually better known); rather than their connection to the truths of the faith on which they are based. By demonstrating the foundations of moral formation, such teaching acquires a particular credibility, the power to convince; and provides a motivation which brings about interior change. It is not my intention, however, to study any particular process of moral forma- tion or its implementation. To approach the task in this manner seems even more appropriate because it concerns the very foundation of Christian life. In order to accomplish this task as outlined above, I shall analyze the writings of our authors — both those addressed to the general Christian audience and those addressed specifically to religious. Later, I shall attempt to bring out certain elements and aspects of their teaching on Christian formation in order to carry out a proper synthesis, keeping in mind that, according to the thought of both the Founder and the Renovator of the Marians, a religious is a model of a true Christian and it would be very difficult to separate these two models in the writings of Father Papczynski and Father Matulaitis-Matulewicz. A comprehensive study and discussion of this issue will allow us to assess these writings properly and to point out their fundamental values. Up to now there have been various articles and extensive monographs published discussing issues of Christian life in the writings of Father Papczynski, especially his approach to the charism of Mary and escha- tological issues. The writings of Father Matulaitis-Matulewicz have also been the subject of scholarly treatises and articles which discuss, among other things, his contribution to Catholic social thought and his approach to spiritual direction, and point out essential characteristics of his teach-