After Nicaea. Developing a Relational Model of the Trinity

This paper analyses strands in patristic thought and the modern Nicene heritage
of inner-Trinitarian relations. First, I examine a link between the Athanasian conception
of the Father-Son relation and the dynamics described by Gregory of Nazianzus. Gregory’s
light imagery builds on a Nicene understanding of apophaticism and induces a
new understanding of the Trinity. This links pertinent topological and relational
aspects, and also reflects three sources: (1) John’s Gospel, (2) the philosophical emphasis
on light and illumination, and (3) the Nicene formulation ‘Light from Light’. Second, I
examine the impact of the relational turn in modern Trinitarian theology. I analyse
both Hans Urs von Balthasar’s topological and dramatic concepts and John Zizioulas’
discussions of the hypostasis. I also examine how Dumitru Stăniloae connects light
imagery with Trinitarian intersubjectivity and the perfect communion of love. I conclude
by evaluating the creative potential such a model has for contemporary Trinitarian
reflections.