Father Alexander Schmemann is known primarily for his works on liturgical theology. He grew up in France, where he was educated and ordained as a Russian Orthodox priest. Later, he worked in the USA. He was well acquainted with the Western traditions of Catholicism and Protestantism while being rooted in the Eastern ecclesial, liturgical and theological Russian tradition. While striving for a genuine Orthodox identity that would not be limited to ethnic, cultural and geographical boundaries, he was also actively involved in efforts for ecumenism and believed in innovation and creativity which result from the encounter of different ecclesial and cultural traditions. He was a man who brought people from different sides together and who embodied a cultural, ecclesial and theological synthesis between the worlds, cultures, languages and outlooks under whose influence he grew up, lived and matured as a priest, theologian and intellectual. Besides Orthodox theological tradition, he was also significantly influenced by the theological renaissance typical of Catholic France in the first half of the twentieth century. This is particularly emphasised by his long-time colleague, John Meyendorff, an Orthodox priest and theologian. Catholic theologian Louis Bouyer, for instance, is important for the understanding of Schmemann’s liturgical theology.
In this artictle, the author wants above all to draw attention to this influence of Catholic theologians. Influence is not a negative concept, but is rather a sign of relationship, which is a fundamental dimension of human life. This is proof of the value and importance of ecumenical efforts that do not limit themselves solely to formalities but aim first and foremost for content. Drawing attention to the above influence in fact emphasises the originality of Schmemann‘s theological work.
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