Universitas Gedanensis invites articles exploring Johann Baptist Metz’s “mysticism of open eyes” and the relationship between spirituality, compassion, justice, and contemporary society.
The issue takes as its motto André Malraux's statement: “The 21st century will be mystical... or it will not be.” The editors approach this statement as a diagnosis of contemporary times and invite reflection on forms of Christian mysticism that remain engaged with the world rather than retreating into private spiritual experience.
The central concept is Johann Baptist Metz's “mysticism of open eyes”: a form of mysticism attentive to reality, suffering, and the faces of others. It emphasizes compassio, compassionate presence with those who have been harmed, and concern for the justice they seek.
Contributions may explore questions related to:
The editors emphasize that “open eyes” represents a critique of mystical contemplation understood as withdrawal from reality. The issue seeks perspectives on whether mysticism can function as an attentive, compassionate, and socially engaged form of spiritual presence.
The editors plan to publish two issues of Universitas Gedanensis, which will subsequently form the basis of a book published by the Krakow Society of Authors and Publishers of Scientific Works “Universitas.”
The book will form part of the Bibliotheca Culturae Scriptae (Library of Written Culture) series, which brings together articles previously published in Universitas Gedanensis with additional materials.
The volume Mysticism of Open Eyes will be edited by Dr Jan Grzanka and Prof. Elżbieta Mikiciuk, PhD, University of Gdańsk.
Detailed information on submitting articles is available through the journal's “For authors,” “Reviewing guidelines,” and “Publication ethics guidelines” sections.
Further information about Universitas Gedanensis and the publishing series is available at:
The announcement does not specify a submission deadline or a dedicated submission procedure beyond directing authors to the journal's publishing guidelines.
Dr Jan Grzanka
Editor-in-chief of Universitas Gedanensis
SANS-Sopot
jangrzanka@onet.pl
Prof. Elżbieta Mikiciuk, PhD
Co-editor of the volume
University of Gdańsk
mikiciuk.elzbieta@gmail.com