Abstract
Spe salvi emphasizes the difference between eschatological and secular hope, but does not adequately articulate their connection. Drawing on Aquinas, the article advances arguments that spell out the connection between eschatological and secular hope. Secular hopes not only participate in eschatological hope but are its means of realization. Aquinas's biblical reflections on the law and the beatitudes provide supporting examples. Finally, since an inadequate connection between eschatological and secular hope can issue in an unconvincing theological analysis of human suffering, concluding reflections reframe some of Benedict's comments on suffering.
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