L'Anima nel Volere Divino. Dalla Tempesta all'Abbandono Filiale. Assisi, 24-5-2026. Padre Ciro Bova

Here is a more concise critical analysis of the text, reduced to its essential theological core: 1. Definition and Status of Abandonment The text correctly defines abandonment as an active theological virtue (faith, hope, charity) and as a habitus (stable disposition of the soul). It is not a fleeting feeling, but a maturity that requires the decentralization of the ego and the mortification of the self-will to place God at the center. 2. Demystification of Mysticism A point of great merit is the distinction between phenomenology (visions, miracles) and ordinary mystical life. Citing the Carmelite tradition (St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa), the speaker defines the mystic as one who dwells stably in the presence of God, even in the "blackout" of physical consolations (the so-called "Nutella faith"). Suffering thus becomes a place of purification and transition to pure faith. 3. The Five Degrees of Abandonment The catechesis outlines the spiritual journey in five progressive stages: Initial Trust: Unstable, tied to emotions and need. Persevering Trust: Faith becomes a habit; the beginning of the rational governance of instincts. Purified Abandonment: The "dark night," where the sensible supports crumble and only naked trust remains. Filial Abandonment: Maturity, profound inner freedom from the judgment of others and victimhood. Profound Union: Total synergy between the will of the soul (which remains free and distinct) and that of God. 4. Critical Issues and Theological Tensions Activity vs. Passivity: The speaker avoids quietism (fatalism). Recalling the Council of Trent and St. Alphonsus, he reiterates that abandonment is a supreme act of freedom and active cooperation with Grace ("fundamental option"). Degrees of Beatitude: The reference to St. Thomas is correct, but it must be clarified: in Heaven, closeness to God will depend on how much one has loved, but every soul will be fully fulfilled and happy, excluding any spiritual "envy." Psychology and Spirituality: The text includes anxiety and panic attacks as places of abandonment. Critical note: Pastoral and clinical practice should not be confused. The "dark night" (spiritual crisis) does not replace the need for therapeutic support for psychological distress. 5. Formal Aspects The text is a transcription of an impromptu speech, evident from the repetitions and immediate metaphors (the stability of the ship, the surgeon of the soul). It ends abruptly on the parallel between Mary's Fiat and that of Jesus in Gethsemane, a theological synthesis of obedience that redeems the disobedience of original sin.