The theology of the body

Sample

Anthony J. Wilhelm

If Christ Among Us is an example of a new trend in explaining one's religious beliefs without denigrating those of others, we are better off than before--but not much better. The spirit of the book is obvious from the opening chapter's assertion that ""the story of Christ among us is a study of the Catholic faith."" The implication, of course, is that the story of Christ among us is not readily discernible in the non-Catholic churches, and in that respect Father Wilhelm has not broken with his preconciliar precursors. He has, however, dispensed with the vitriol that hitherto has been as necessary a part of apologetics as the various proofs of the existence of God. For the rest, the book follows the conventional lines of books written to explain, defend, and propagate the Catholic faith: the existence and knowability of God, the divinity of Christ, the foundation and authentic mission of the Catholic Church, etc. A rather unusual feature is that the author is at pains to emphasize what is common dogma in all Christian churches, and he does often present, somewhat summarily, the Protestant viewpoint on matters of difference. However, an overall impression of the author's inflexibility that expresses itself in the we-are-absolutely-right-and-they-are-absolutely-wrong syndrome, despite his good will and intentions, detracts from the purposes of his book. The older Catholics generally won't mind; the younger will.

Sample

Paul Sullins and Anthony Blasi

"Catholic Social Thought presents detailed commentary and response to the Vatican's 2005 Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, with contributions from outstanding American scholars. Addressing theology, social theory, the family, economy, government, labor, global society, gender, peace, and the environment, the various authors explore the core theology, explain the Compendium's themes and arguments, and apply their own intellectual powers to applications of its teachings. Some of the chapters are largely expository, some more critical. Some operate from a standard of magisterial assent in conformity with Ad Tuendam Fidem, others do not. Together the chapters represent the range of Catholic thinking on social issues in the American church today." --Book Jacket.

Sample

Thomas Merton

A posthumously published collection of Merton's essays and meditations centering on the need for love in learning to live.

Sample

John Michael Talbot with Steve Rabey

The life of St. Francis of Assisi was a paradigm of simplicity, humanity, and love. In today's busy world, his practices have enormous appeal, described in this inspiring work by John Michael Talbot, the founder of The Brothers and Sisters of Charity, a lay order based on the Franciscan principles of simplicity and self-sufficiency. In The Lessons Of St. Francis, Talbot and co-author Steve Rabey demonstrate the enduring significance of Franciscan wisdom. Organized by topic, such as Simplicity, Humility, Compassion, Solitude, Service, and Prayer, each chapter includes excerpts from the writings of St. Francis, as well as those of his followers and biographers. Combining deep spiritual insights with the offer of a saner, less chaotic way of living, The Lessons Of St. Francis offers wise advice on how to incorporate these virtues into our own lives today.