In a two-year correspondence with Malachi Martin, Wolfgang Smith broaches a wide spectrum of topics, to which Fr. Martin responds in a way that may surprise many readers. What stands at issue is the meaning of authentic Catholicity-of the universality of Catholic truth. Theologians have long been stymied and misled by what Malachi Martin refers to as an "intellectual impasse" that needs to be "deblocked." Martin and Smith agree on the necessity "to open doors and windows," not in the name of an aggiornamento, but for the very opposite reason: to rediscover an ancient wisdom, at once theological and cosmological.

In “In Quest of Catholicity,” Wolfgang Smith compiles and comments on his correspondence with Father Malachi Martin, delving into deep theological discussions. The book explores themes of Thomistic philosophy, quantum physics, and the integration of sacred sciences with traditional Catholic beliefs.

Wolfgang Smith’s interactions with Malachi Martin reveal a profound discourse on the need for a new understanding of Catholicism, integrating modern scientific discoveries with traditional religious wisdom. They advocate for a broader ontological perspective that bridges the gap between contemporary misconceptions and perennial truths, emphasizing the rediscovery of sacred sciences and their role in comprehending the cosmos. The correspondence underscores the significance of spiritual well-being and the critical need for a renewed theological framework.

Key Points

💡 Modern Science and Faith: The integration of scientific discoveries into a coherent worldview, emphasizing the need for new Thomistic perspectives.

📚 Traditional Wisdom: Rediscovery of pre-Christian wisdom, sacred sciences, and their relevance to modern Catholicism.

🔍 Ontological Horizons: Expanding ontological horizons to comprehend deeper cosmic realities beyond ordinary perception.

📜 Philosophical Insights: Dialogues on the limitations of contemporary science and the potential of traditional sciences for spiritual and practical benefits.

🌌 Quantum Physics: Discussing Bell’s theorem and its implications for understanding the universe’s nonlocality and its ontological significance.

⚛️ Intermediary Domain: Exploration of the ‘middle plateau’ or intermediary domain, a realm known in various sapiential traditions but less emphasized in Thomism.

💬 Spiritual Discussions: Correspondence with Malachi Martin revealing his pastoral concerns and theological insights.

🛡️ Preserving Orthodoxy: The balance between maintaining essential truths of faith and shedding extraneous elements for a future Church.

👁️ Spiritual Experiences: Accounts of mystical experiences and their implications for understanding the supernatural.

🔄 Evolution of Faith: The idea that the Church must evolve to integrate new scientific and philosophical understandings while preserving core beliefs.

Summary

1. Introduction to Correspondence: The book begins with Wolfgang Smith detailing his first interaction with Father Malachi Martin, initiated by a radio talk show discussion.

2. Need for a New Thomas Aquinas: Martin’s assertion of the necessity for a new Thomas Aquinas to integrate modern scientific discoveries with traditional Thomistic philosophy.

3. Quantum Physics and Ontology: Discussion on Bell’s theorem and the ontological implications of quantum physics, highlighting the need for a broader ontological horizon.

4. Intermediary Domain: Exploration of the ‘middle plateau,’ a realm known to sapiential traditions, significant for understanding spiritual realities and demonic activity.

5. Critique of Contemporary Science: Addressing the limitations of contemporary science and advocating for the rediscovery of traditional sacred sciences.

6. Spiritual Insights: Martin’s pastoral approach to theological issues, emphasizing spiritual well-being and the need for doctrines to support piety and submission to God.

7. Traditional Wisdom: Discussion on pre-Christian wisdom, its transmission, and relevance to modern faith, suggesting a sacred science to counteract the dominance of profane science.

8. Role of Sacred Sciences: The importance of sacred sciences in understanding the cosmos and fulfilling higher human needs beyond material necessities.

9. Spiritual Experiences: Accounts of Malachi Martin’s spiritual experiences, particularly as an exorcist, and their implications for understanding the supernatural.

10. Future of the Church: Reflection on the future of the Church, integrating new scientific and philosophical insights while preserving core beliefs, and the potential need for a new theological framework.