Vol. XXXVIII / 1 - Studia Moralia

MODELS AND MULTIVALENCE 57
between the two disciplines, thus leaving itself open for possible
misinterpretations by the reader.
The Absorption Model
Summary. Another model for the interaction of spirituality
and moral theology allows for the near or total absorption one
discipline by the other. It does so by defining the boundaries of
each in such a way so that one functions either entirely or in
part within the methodological scope of the other, i.e., either as
a subdiscipline or an integrally related field of theological
inquiry. When viewed in this light, moral theology could be
completely subsumed into spirituality – or vice versa. Such a
scenario would normally demand a loosening of strict claims of
autonomy by one of the disciplines and a widening of the object,
scope, and methodological boundaries of the other. Depending
on how this redefining of the boundaries between the two
disciplines is conceived of and implemented, this model could
allow for a variety of relationships between them. As such, it
recognizes the possibility of different degrees of absorption
within the model and, depending on the theological exigencies
of the moment, even a state of flux between the two. This model
seeks a post-hierarchical integration of spiritual and moral
theology. Keenly aware of the sordid history of the relationship
between the two disciplines (i.e., marriage, divorce, remarriage),
it recognizes that it must construe their present relationship in
such a way that allows the traditional nomenclature to survive,
even if in a qualified, thoroughly renovated sense. It
accomplishes its aim by softening the nature of the boundaries
between the two disciplines so that a merging of theological
horizons can occur. It envisions something more than mere
dialogue which, important as it is, ultimately leaves each
discipline free to return to its theological locus to integrate and
then implement what it has learned. Instead, it looks for a single
methodological nexus that ultimately will embrace what it
previously took two separate disciplines to accomplish. Its goal
is to arrive at an integrated model for the relationship between
spirituality and moral theology in a post-hierarchical setting. As
such, it makes an adaptive use of the past in order to transcend