Discussion – Nostra Aetate
Nostra Aetate (in our time) is the second Vatican declaration regarding its relationship with other non-Catholic religions. The declaration borders on the formalization of an expanded attitude of dialogue and respect of the Catholic Church toward other religions, such as Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism (Van der Merwe, 2017). One of the aspects of the Nostra Aetate that I find insightful is the changed outlook of the Roman Catholic Church toward the secularized world. In that respect, the Nostra Aetate expresses the need for the Catholic Church to collaborate with secular leaders because they lead the church members. Unlike in the past, where the Catholic Church was largely independent, the modern church finds itself in a weaker position, hence the need to collaborate with worldly leaders (Van der Merwe, 2017). By aligning with worldly leaders, the Catholic Church eases relationships with non-Catholic entities.
Additionally, the opening words of the Nostra Aetate also speak about the openness of the church. The Roman Catholic Church had been previously associated with dictatorial tendencies to the extent that its word was the law. However, the new dispensation, as expressed in the Nostra Aetate, points to a church that is ready to listen to others. The Roman Catholic Church expresses readiness to listen to the facts of the world before making the ultimate decisions on different issues (Van der Merwe, 2017). Before his demise, Pope Francis expressed significant support for the LGBTQ community. While he admits that same-sex marriage is a sin, the Pope affirmed that the Church should be receptive to all sinners without judgment. The Pope’s position reflects the openness of the Catholic Church as expressed in the Nostra Aetate.
Overall, the declaration reflects the dynamism of the Catholic Church. It shows that the traditions of the Catholic Church will change to align with the realities of the world. Therefore, being a ‘good Catholic’ is not about holding onto enforced truths and obeying conventional rules but embracing harmony and tolerance with diverse perspectives.
References
Van Der Merwe, P. J. (2017). Commentary on the documents Nostra aetate and Lumen gentium 7. HTS Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies, 73(6). https://doi.org/10.4102/hts.v73i6.4838
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Question 
Discussion – Nostra Aetate
Discussion – Nostra Aetate
After reading the Second Vatican Council’s declaration on the Church’s relationship with non-Christian religions, entitled Nostra Aetate, please share something that you find insightful, helpful, problematic or puzzling.