Ratzinger on Evolution and Evil: A Christological and Mariological Answer to the Problem of Suffering and Death in Creation

This article argues that a compelling way to address the presence of suffering and death across evolutionary history lies in thought Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI. By situating human evolution within broader divine plan for man’s salvation through cross Jesus, Ratzinger is able show natural evils this world not incompatible with God’s goodness but on contrary an eminent means by which love God made manifest. Exploring Christ’s kenosis sinless Blessed Virgin, it argued properly embraced raw material thus essential true flourishing life. The real problem man, contended, having suffer die, how die well. Finally, suggested full Christian answer connected nevertheless eschatogical hope new heaven earth, where man—and all creation him—will undergo definitive “evolutionary leap” “transubstantiation” Christ.