And Still We Wait

In response to the recent critiques made against Balthasar's interpretation of Christ's descent into hell on Holy Saturday, this book argues that Balthasar does not intend to present a radical reinterpretation of the doctrine in contrast to the traditional teachings but rather intends to fully appreciate the in-betweenness of Holy Saturday as the day of transition from the cross to the resurrection, from the old aeon to the new. The book further argues that this awareness of the ""in-betweenness"" can be detected throughout Balthasar's theological corpus and provides a clue to interpret his thoughts on Christian discipleship and suffering. After all, the Christian existence is also characterized by the transition from the old aeon to the new, from suffering to victory. The Christian believes that their victory is already here and not here yet. In this sense, the Christian still lives in Holy Saturday. Eventually, we can deepen our understanding of Christian discipleship and suffering in the light of Holy Saturday. In short, we could patiently endure our Holy Saturday because of Christ's Holy Saturday in hell.

""Hans Urs von Balthasar is acknowledged as one of the greatest modern Christian theologians . . . Hikota's openness to the mystical sources that influenced Balthasar, specially his friend and profound spiritual writer, Adrienne von Speyr, makes Hikota's interpretation one of the most valuable studies of Balthasar. This engaging book marks a new beginning of Balthasar scholarship and a sincere recovery of the mystery of the Son of God who pursues us even into the depths.""
--Matthew Lewis Sutton, Associate Professor, St. John's University, New York City

""Avoiding recent polemics, Riya Hikota offers a patient exploration of Balthasar's theology of Holy Saturday, noting in particular the influence of Adrienne von Speyr. Through providing a balanced scholarly appraisal of Balthasar's work, Hikota seeks to develop a consensus approach to the liturgical and pastoral significance of Easter Saturday. Her treatment of the subject deserves broad ecumenical consideration.""
--David Fergusson, Professor, University of Edinburgh

Riyako Cecilia Hikota is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institut Catholique de Paris. She has received a PhD in systematic theology at the University of Edinburgh.