Tomáš Špidlík – A Theological Life (Karel Sládek)

Tomas Spidlik: A Theological Life offers one of the first comprehensive reflections on the life and work of the enigmatic Czech theologian. In part one, Karel Sladek explores Spidlik's thoughts on family, the formation of Jesuit priests, the ecumenical mission of the monastery at Velehrad in Moravia (where Spidlik himself studied), and the wisdom he acquired during stays in Rome. The latter part of the book focuses on Spidlik's spiritual theology, which was grounded in a synthesis of Eastern and Western Christianity. Here, the book explores subjects such as the Holy Spirit, the Eucharist as a source of spiritual life, and the influence of the Philokalia on Eastern spirituality. By the conclusion, we see Spidlik's most mature ideas and his forming of a theology of beauty; Spidlik spent his final years in Rome, living and working at the Centro Aletti's renowned art studio, where he put his mind to observing the theology of art for an understanding of music, film, literature, and iconography.