Modes of Re-Enchantment

This essay uses the philosophy and theology of John Paul II to argue that re-enchanting the world requires various modes depending on whether religious beliefs are deemed false or irrelevant. The former requires re-enchantment through theistic philosophy. The latter requires re-enchantment through other-centered love as exemplified by relationships in God-centered families. Familial love–whether natural, Christian or ecclesial–plays a crucial role in facilitating a familial relationship with God best exemplified in Christianity. Although having a relationship with God does not necessitate Christianity, re-enchantment does, since statistics and dialectics show that only Christianity enables most of its believers to hold that such a relationship is possible. This relationship with God is what ultimately re-enchants the world.