The Marian dimension in the writings of Adrienne Von Speyr

Abstract

The major objective of this study is to expose the Marian dimension that one can find in the writings of the Swiss convert and mystic, Adrienne von Speyr. The expository nature of this dissertation originates from the fact that 40 years after her death, Adrienne von Speyr's works are still relatively unknown in the theological field. This dissertation is divided into four main parts. The first chapter aims to give a sketch of the life, mission and literary and theological output of our author. Particular importance will also be given to von Speyr's intense friendship and collaboration with the renowned pious theological scholar Hans Urs von Balthasar together with some information on the Community of St. John, of which they are co-founders. Chapter 2 seeks to explain the centrality of the assent of the handmaid of the Lord followed by an exposition of Adrienne's reflections on Mary's roles as Mother of the Lord, Bride of Christ and Prototype of the Church. The third chapter will then focus on Mary's relationship with her husband Joseph and with the apostle John as relationships which throw particular light on the ecclesial states of marriage and consecrated life. These will be followed by reflections on how these relationships can be of help to the Christian living in today's world. After giving von Speyr's reflection on the nature of office and structure in the Church, Chapter 4 will give particular importance to the Marian dimension of the Church. Special emphasis shall also be given to von Speyr's belief that the present age is in great need of rediscovering this dimension. The main contribution of this dissertation is that it hopefully exposes and brings to the forefront the figure and works of Adrienne von Speyr - works that put Mariology in an extremely interesting new light. What we find in this author's writings can indeed give a major contribution to the field of Mariology and also to the whole of Theology. This is of particular importance when once bears in mind that both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI have exhorted theologians to investigate new sources in order to draw from them further points for theological research.