New Polity Rocco Buttiglione: A Life Among Popes, Saints, and Politicians
Jun 5, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Rocco Buttiglione, an esteemed Italian philosopher and former politician, shares insights from his colorful life alongside popes and politicians. He reflects on his early experiences in post-WWII Poland and the warmth of his encounter with John Paul II, revealing how these moments shaped his faith. Buttiglione discusses the challenges of merging faith with politics, especially during authoritarian regimes, and highlights his friendship with Jorge Mario Bergoglio. His rich anecdotes bring to life a fascinating blend of theology and political philosophy.
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Giussani's Youth Meeting Impact
- Rocco Buttiglione converted from a lukewarm Catholic to a passionate believer after attending a youth meeting led by Don Luigi Giussani.
- Giussani's challenge to seek "100 times more" joy and life intensity captivated him deeply at age 13 in 1961.
Smuggling Books to Poland
- Buttiglione participated in smuggling forbidden books to Communist Poland, connecting with underground intellectuals.
- This risky activity involved evading authorities and distributing banned philosophical and religious works.
Modernity's True Challenge
- Modernity is a problem seeking salvation, not the solution itself.
- Salvation lies in the historical presence of Jesus Christ, marrying modern cultural freedom with Christian faith.
