If we live by the Spirit, let us be guided by the Spirit (Ga 5:25)

Fr. Prof. UAM dr hab. Piotr Piasecki focuses on phenomena related to theology of spirituality.

What is spirituality?

The contemporary use of the word ‘spirituality is sometimes vague and difficult to define precisely because it is increasingly detached from religious traditions and specifically from its roots in Christianity. Yet, despite the fuzziness, it is possible to suggest that the word ‘spirituality’ refers to the deepest values and meanings by which people seek to live.  In other words ‘spirituality’ implies some kind of vision of the human spirit and of what will assist it to achieve full potential.

Fr. Prof. UAM dr hab. Piotr Piasecki

In Christian terms, spirituality refers to the way our fundamental values, lifestyles, and spiritual practices reflect particular understandings of God, human identity, and the material world as the context of human transformation.

Why study Christian spirituality?

It is an interdisciplinary field shaped by scripture, theology, and Christian history, but which may also draw upon psychology, the social sciences, literature, and the sciences. The study of Christian spirituality is also “self-implicating,” in the sense that it is not treated in a purely theoretical way but includes a quest for practical wisdom.

Finally, the traditions of Christian spirituality increasingly engage with important issues of social and cultural transformation, for example, interreligious dialogue, peace and reconciliation, ecological questions, the future of cities, the world of business, and the meaning of healthcare.

What is your most favorite research area?

I am currently focusing on studying the phenomena of conversion, which is permanently inscribed in the dynamics of the Christian life. Its main aim is to change in the mental sphere (metanoia) and to return or lead to the sources of faith (epistrophé). It is connected with living a faith that transforms spiritually from within, effectively heals, opens, and leads to the discovery of God's mysteries.

Conversion, understood broadly as personal transformation in its intellectual, moral, and spiritual dimensions, creates a space for the human who wishes to live in harmony with himself, not only in religious but also in the social terms.