Washington D.C., May 29, 2009 / 16:57 pm
Michael Waldstein, an Ave Maria University theology professor and translator of Pope John Paul II’s work, has joined the discussion about the Catholic speaker Christopher West’s presentation of the Theology of the Body. Defending West as an effective communicator and popularizer, Waldstein warned that a critical “spin” on West’s work does harm to the Theology of the Body.
The Theology of the Body is based on a series of addresses delivered by Pope John Paul II early in his pontificate. The topic concerns matters such as marital life, virginity, moral theology and the Resurrection.
Following West’s appearance on ABC Nightline, John Paul II Institute dean and theologian David Schindler had written an essay critical of West at HeadlineBistro.com. Granting that West’s remarks were “in some sense” taken out of context, Schindler said West has a record of making comments and actions “not inconsistent” with the context presented by the Nightline editors.
Schindler also criticized West’s interpretation of the Theology of the Body for significantly misrepresenting the thought of Pope John Paul II, for being “too much about sex and too romantic,” and for neglecting a sound understanding of concupiscence.
Waldstein addressed Schindler’s remarks in an essay published on InsideCatholic.com, saying that Schindler’s essay was a “blanket negative statement.” Waldstein said Schindler made “sweeping accusations” against a position he did not recognize as West’s.