Saving elements in other religions?

[Ahimsa]

“Thus in the great religions, which the Church considers with respect and esteem in the way indicated by the Second Vatican Council, Christians recognize the presence of saving elements, which nevertheless operate in dependence on the influence of Christ’s grace. Therefore, by virtue of the mysterious action of the Holy Spirit who “blows where he wills” (Jn 3:8), these religions can contribute to helping men on their way to eternal happiness. But this role is also the fruit of Christ’s redemptive activity. Thus, with regard to other religions, Christ the Savior is also mysteriously at work.”

25, The Trinity’s Embrace: God’s Saving Plan, John Paul II, 2002.

So does this mean that other religions are able to ‘save’, albeit their salvatory power is via Jesus?

 

[tkdnick]

“Thus in the great religions, which the Church considers with respect and esteem in the way indicated by the Second Vatican Council, Christians recognize the presence of saving elements, which nevertheless operate in dependence on the influence of Christ’s grace. Therefore, by virtue of the mysterious action of the Holy Spirit who “blows where he wills” (Jn 3:8), these religions can contribute to helping men on their way to eternal happiness. But this role is also the fruit of Christ’s redemptive activity. Thus, with regard to other religions, Christ the Savior is also mysteriously at work.”

25, The Trinity’s Embrace: God’s Saving Plan, John Paul II, 2002.

So does this mean that other religions are able to ‘save’, albeit their salvatory power is via Jesus?

No, other religions are not able to “save”. However, it is possible for people in other religions to “be saved”.

 

[JimO]

I take this to mean that other religions have signposts (saving elements) pointing to salvation. Note the key phrase, “these religions can contribute to helping men on their way to eternal happiness” suggesting that salvation is beyond the referenced religions.

In order for someone to embrace Christ, he/she must first believe in the spiritual, the immortal soul of a human, a loving omnipotent God, eternal consequences, and a savior. These are progressive elements that can lead one to Christ.