Customer Reviews (1)

New edition coming out in June 2010
Unless you need the book right away, there is a new edition due out on June 1, 2010. ... Read more

Product Description
More than at any time in the past, Roman Catholics & evangelicals are working together.

They are standing shoulder to shoulder against social evils. They are joining across denominational boundaries in renewal movements. And many evangelicals are finding the history, tradition, and grandeur of the Roman Catholic Church appealing. This newfound rapport has caused many evangelical leaders and laypeople to question the age-old disagreements that have divided Protestants and Catholics: Aren't we all saying the same thing in difference language?

The Roman Catholic Controversy is an absorbing look at current views of tradition and Scripture, the Papacy, the Mass, Purgatory, indulgences, and Marian doctrine. James White affirms that evangelicals and Catholics share common ground on some points. Yet there are crucial differences that remain regarding the Christian life and the heart of the Gospel itself that cannot be ignored.

James White's ministry on the front lines of the Roman Catholic-Protestant debate has uniquely equipped him to write this book. It distills the strongest evidence for the Protestant position on justification by faith and the principle of Scripture alone. In an era when evangelicals seem eager to yield to Rome and set aside important differences. I'm grateful for this clarion reminder that the Reformation is not yet over.

Dr. John Macarthur

Senior Pastor Grace Community Church ... Read more

Customer Reviews (67)

Divide and Conquer
Divide and conquer a tactic the devil knows well. When the world seeks to isolate,
marginalize and return Christians to the catacombs to worshiping in secret, the author, as well as, those involved in his ministry are useful idiots to that end.

What about the rest of the Christian world?
Christianity has existed in lots of other places outside of Europe. They were well insulated from most of the politics in the western world that brought about the Reformation.

Copts, Assyrians, Syriacs, Armenians, Chaldeans, Ethiopic Christians, St. Thomas Christians. The list of Christian groups outside of Europe that trace their origins to the apostles is large (not enormous as is the list of competing Protestant groups, however). The Christianity that they profess is far and wide from what the Reformation men in Switzerland, Germany and what is now the UK came up with in the 15 and 1600's and American Bible thumpers concocted in later years. It's much, much closer to Catholicism and they all have a basic coherence. These ancient Christian groups have tradition, scripture, priesthood, sacraments, faith AND works. Nobody, least of all Rome, forced these things on these people. This fact is completely overlooked. To suggest that such beliefs are the brainchild of some pope in Rome is ignorant at best or even dishonest at worst if someone has a view of the world outside Europe and North America. I believe the author of this book is in the former category.

This whole debate is so tainted by the bad blood between European and later, North American Christian groups. This man sees and analyses things according to such a myopic view. If his Protestant opinions were a shoe and scripture were a foot, his analytical method is the equivalent of cutting off the toes and then saying, "See, it fits!" That's the natural outcome of this sola scriptura idea and disregard for history (or tradition). Everybody has their own notion of what a given Biblical text means to them. When what's black and white doesn't suit particular ideas and ideologies, meandering over-intellectualizing and sophistry by those who think they know it better takes place. That's why there are Lutherans, Calvinists, Arminians, Anglicans, Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Pentecostals, Evangelicals and the whole gamut of Reformation sects.

Aside from the pettifogging, complete disregard for the rest of the Christian world and their beliefs, inelegant reasoning on some things and blatant stretches on other key issues, I still believe this book worth reading.

Save your money if you look for the truth
James White claims in this book that Jesus wasn`t called by God to teach the doctrine of Justification, and that was Paul`s call. Aside from the fact that Jesus destroys the doctrine of justification by faith alone in Mt 12:37, the question remains: Did God teach through Jesus what we must do to go to heaven?. According to White, no (Bless be Jesus who says that He is our only teacher in Mt 23: 8). The truth is that Jesus DID preach the Gospel (Mk 1:15)and no one can say that Jesus's teaching was subordinated to the Law, because Jesus said in Lk 16:16 "The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the Gospel of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone forces his way into it". Before Paul preached the Gospel of Salvation, Jesus did it, and both agree in something: we christians must do good and avoid evil to go to heaven, because we are going to be judged according to our works by God (Rm 2:6-13 and Mt 25:31-46).
According to White the Apostolic Church didnt`know and didn`t preach the doctrine of salvation, until Paul came along. Jesus is the only Teacher says the Scripture (Mt 23:8) and Paul was His slave (Rm 1:1). Paul wrote to Timothy before he died:
" Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers". Yes, final salvation is not by faith alone. White is wrong. Just read a couple of books by protestant scholars, one of them a Ph.D. Dallas Semminary, yes an evangelical saying no to James White:Did Jesus Teach Salvation by Works?: The Role of Works in Salvation in the Synoptic Gospels (Evangelical Theological Society Monograph) Judgment & Justification In Early Judaism And The Apostle Paul

May Jesus bless James White and lead him to the complete truth. And read the good book by the Westminster Semminary convert to catholicism, Robert Sungenis Not by Faith Alone: A Biblical Study of the Catholic Doctrine of Justification

Very Insightful
Excellent book by James White, clearly deliniating the differences between Roman Catholicism and Evangelical Protestantism!I would heartily recommend this book to anyone who has left the Catholic Church and occasionally has doubts whether or not they truly left the true Christian Church.

Sincerely Incapable of Objectivity
I enjoyed reading this book. I am not a Catholic but I want to be. That is a better story than the book. The author does make some good distinctions between Catholic and Protestant beliefs but he truly does not comprehend the Catholic faith. Several times he states that the Roman church has added to Scripture. Although well read in the Church Fathers and contemporary apologist, Mr. White places strong rhetoric and inappropriate contrast to a fuller objective picture of the very author's who have given their views as though they speak in all cases for the Roman Church. He appears incapable or unwilling to conceptualize what all of the Church's teachings and views were before the Reformation so as to truly present some objectivity as to "what Rome did." I know of many other classic historical records not even mentioned. Therefore I see his references as piecemeal assertions from a position of authority he gives himselfwhich appears far greater than that claimed by the Roman Church itself.Although this is a luxury of the sola scriptura view he should learn from the many posits of faith before the Reformation regarding Church writers of the early 2nd and late first century up through the 4th century.He has his own cradle bias (sola scriptora - baptistic) and this book disappoints when clear distinctions are explained well to a point but not understood by the author. His recommendations and assertions are therefore seen by me as a lacking in understandings of a fuller picture. He's clearly giving a "protestant" filter of a Catholic point of view by giving strong and very good imperative trust in the Word of God over his misapplied understanding of Catholic documents. Let Mr. White start from the assumption that the early church believed before the reformation to clearly compare a justification for the Reformation. Perhaps he is incapable of appreciating a fuller view or greater faith because he is stuck on a paper pope.From my historical view I see the Reformers taking away from the Church rather than saying the Church added to Sacred Scripture. I'd like to see some appreciation for the other command our Lord gave his Apostles regarding John 20:20-24.

I guess the author had to rest in one camp or the other and I complain not as to why he rests with sola scriptura only disappointed that he hasn't grappled fairly or fully the Catholic understanding. Still a very good read.

paul's thorn ... Read more

Product Description
The history of the Roman Catholic Church is a gateway to understanding two thousand years of Western--and at times world--civilization. Edward Norman's lavishly illustrated, incisive account, sure to become a classic, tells the story of the multifarious ways in which the Church has shaped the lives and beliefs of Christians and non-Christians alike.
It is partly a story of remarkable people, from the greatest theologian of the early Church, St. Augustine, to one of the greatest figures of the modern age, Mother Teresa of Calcutta. It is also a story rich in symbols, not least the awe-inspiring basilica built over the tomb of St. Peter in Rome, the most recognizable church in the world. But the focus of the book is a historical account of epic proportions. Here we discover how Rome became the heart of the Roman Catholic religion and played a role in transforming Western Europe into Christendom. We gain a view of the Crusades undistorted by today's agendas, explore the Counter-Reformation as the fruit of the venerable Catholic reforming tradition, and witness the beginning of a new 500-year history, in which missionaries took their message to Latin America and the East. And, in this boldly uplifting account, we come to see how the Church, reflecting the vision of the Second Vatican Council in 1962, today embodies Christ's own injunction to "teach all nations."
Copub: Thames & Hudson ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A pleasure from beginning to end.
I came upon Edward Norman's book quite by accident. I started to read it with some trepidation, expecting a set of variations on the usual misrepresentation that passes, in the Anglophone world, for a history of the Catholic Church. What a surprise, what a pleasure, to read a work at once scholarly (and brief)yet written in a very accessible style. Though the author does not concern himself primarily with theological matters, when he does touch upon these, he manages to discuss complex issues in a concise yet clear manner. On purely historical matters, he is not afraid to challenge current cultural orthodoxies. Example: "There are periodic demands...that apologies should be made by Christian bodies for the Crusades. Perhaps, however, a balance of remorse might be achieved if the Islamic bodies were, in turn, asked to apologize for their own invasions of the Byzantine provinces and the Holy Land some three-and-a-half centuries before. Then peaceful Christian populations were overrun amid scences of considerable violence, which had never been forgotten....Wisdom, however, would suggest allowing the past its own integrity; the point is that the Crusades today are evaluated in a context, and with a passion, which has departed from academic detachment." (pp. 56-57)

There is much more to stimulate the mind of the reader but limitations of space do not permit me to go into detail. A carefully written yet intellectually challenging book, beautifully produced. ... Read more

Product Description
Unique among contemporary resources, the landmark Systematic Theology and its distinguished contributors present the major areas or loci of Roman Catholic theology in light of contemporary developments— especially the sea-change since Vatican II thought, the best new historical studies of traditional doctrines and Scripture, and the diverse creative impulses that come from recent philosophy and hermeneutics, culture and praxis, and ecumenical contacts.

Product Description
A completely new typeset and designed edition of the popular Ignatius Revised Standard Version Bible, with minor revisions to some of the archaic language used in the first edition. This revised version is a contemporary English translation without dumbing-down the text. This second edition of the RSV doesn't put the biblical text through a filter to make it acceptable to current tastes and prejudices, and it retains the beauty of the RSV language that has made it such a joy to read and reflect on the Word of God. Now the only Catholic Bible in standard English is even more beautiful in word and design! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (73)

Only wish it was leather!
Wow, a breath of fresh air after reading the previous translation for so long.I kind of miss some of the Old English, because some nuances can be lost, but I greatly appreciate the ease of the read.Maybe someday someone will come out with an addition that identifies the three different types of love.Anyway, I wish that I would have waited for the leather edition to come out.This paperback edition is taking a beating and I like the translation enough to have spent the extra money for something nicer.Don't skimp of your Bible if you really plan to read it, love it, and write notes in it.

Unhelpful footnotes
Let me start by saying the RSV Ignatius Press Bible is a wonderful translation.The Bible Commentaries are a necessary supplement since there is not much in the way of footnotes.For example, "Then these men were bound in their mantles, their tunics, their hats, and their other garments, and they were cast into the burning fiery furnace."Daniel 3:21.There is a footnote reference "d"which states "The meaning of the Aramaic word is uncertain."How necessary of a statement is that?Limited footnotes is not the weakness but rather unhelpful footnotes.My recommendation would be to purchase the Bible IF you intend to purchase the Commentaries or if you already have NAB, or if you cross reference biblical passages.Again, it is an excellent translation, fine quality, and portable.That aside, it would be nice if it came in a larger font size.

The Ignatius Bible, Kindle edition
This review is specific to the Kindle version.

First of all let me state that I like the Ignatius Bible in a paper format.The Kindle version does not have the book name or chapter listed in a header.Just the name of the bible.If you tap a link, you go to the link but you have to keep track of where you are since the kindle will not tell you.

I have used bible readers in the past and the kindle version does not compare.

Get a sample of it and try it before you buy it.

Wandering plot.....
This is essentially a collection of short stories; many which don't seem to gel well together.In the first half, the main character is an angry and vengeful person.In the second half, he is sweet and forgiving.Some of the short stories appear to be the same story told in different ways; and the author didn't even bother to change the name of the main character.The ending is also totally bizarre.I am not quite sure I understood it-- but I am hoping the sequel will explain some of this.3 out of 5 stars.

Don't Buy the Kindle Version
The Kindle version hijacked my Kindle. The version is too hard to navigate. I wanted to return it almost as soon as it appeared in my device. While this translation may be heaven-sent, the Kindle rendering of it is closer to Purgatory. Nothing about the navigation is intuitive. One has to hunt to find the Table of Contents--then work even harder to find the books. Stay away from this version till St Ignatius comes to his Kindle-senses. ... Read more

Product Description
A thoughtful exploration of the history and vitality of traditional Catholic prayers.

Praying people have long relied on meditative or extemporaneous prayer to express their feelings and yearning to God. Traditional prayer, often considered rote, tends to be neglected. In The Words We Pray, author Amy Welborn offers an insightful exploration into eighteen traditional prayers and the vital role they play in the spiritual life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

The Words We Pray
As a returning Catholic(almost 30 years away from the Church), I have found Amy Welborn a reliable source to ease my transition back in the fold. This book refreshed my knowledge of prayers I learned as a child. It also introduced me to some I never knew or felt I should have known. I have given this book to other devout Catholics,both cradle and convert,who treasure it as I do.

St. Francis....and more
Although I bought this little book for it's prayer by St. Francis, I found it rich with other prayers that only the Christian can fully appreciate.

The Words We Pray: Discovering the Richeness of Traditional Catholic Prayers
Excellent!!!Amy Welborn is an awesome author, our bible study enjoys reading any of her books.

Why use old prayers
Discovering the history and the sense of being part of the communion of saints is what this book does well.The author is frank about her very subjective perspective, so that nobody can expect a scholarly treatment of the subject.It does well what it sets out to do.

Terrific resource will enrich your prayer life Immeasurably
Most Catholics, whether they actively practice their faith or not, can recite the words to the Hail Mary as instinctively as they tie their shoelaces.They may not know the meaning or origin of the words they pray, but the prayer itself is a part of their core, their identity, their soul.In her latest book The Words We Pray (Loyola Press, October 2004, paperback, 210 pages), Amy Welborn gives her readers a gift - the gift of prayer, of knowing not only the words to our favorite prayers, but the stories behind them and the occasions in life when turning to them can provide solace and joy.

I have long admired Welborn's ability to write.Picking up one of her books, or treating yourself to an article she's written is like a combination of having lunch with a friend and a tutoring session with a knowledgeable mentor.The Words We Pray continues this tradition for me, as Amy Welborn captures so effectively the essence and origin of traditional Catholic prayers.The book opens with Welborn's heartfelt description of her own "journey" towards an eventual embracing of prayers such as the Salve Regina.

The true stars of The Words We Pray are the prayers themselves.Welborn has included eighteen of the most popular and powerful Catholic prayers, and has richly described their histories and traditions.When we as Catholics turn to God in communication using these wonderful gems of our Faith, we take our place in the Communion of Saints who have over countless years turned to these prayers to seek intercession and aid.Welborn's book concludes with an interesting discussion of "where our prayers go" and the value of praying vocally, using traditional prayers.The Words We Pray serves not only as a valuable reference, but also as an invitation to a deeper and richer prayer life.
... Read more

Product Description
Burgess examines medieval Roman Catholic and Reformation attitudes toward the Holy Spirit beginning with the writings of medieval Catholic theologians from Gregory the Great to Aquinas. Subsequent sections describe the contributions of influential women; “fringe” figures; magisterial reformers Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin; leading Catholic reformers such as Ignatius of Loyola; the “radical” reformers Thomas Muntzer and Menno Simons, and others.

The Holy Spirit: Medieval Roman Catholic and Reformation Traditions (Sixth-Sixteenth Centuries) is the third in a series of three volumes devoted to the history of Christian pneumatology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A great book to increase understanding of the Mass
I am returning to the Catholic faith after much time away and much searching. This volume is a great instruction in Mass and all that it means. I highly recommend it.

alright
its alright. i was looking for something a little more theologically written but the fact that it was written mroe like a story made my other family members read it so it was a blessing in disguise! easy read with good examples to illustrate points but if you want something more theological then this is not for you.

A simple guide
We Worship: A Guide To The Catholic Mass
This is the best and simplest explanation of the Mass I've seen.It's a short book that contains many of the ideas from informative homilies I've heard over the years.
If you don't understand what the Mass is all about, this book explains it in an interesting style.

A great book on the Mass
This is a great book on the Mass. Every Catholic should read this book.It is an easy to read but very informational book.It will change your view on the Mass if you think Mass is boring or routine.

Mass understanding, mass appreciation
If you've been attending Mass all your life, but haven't experienced Jesus' presence all these years, you're not alone. Neither are you, if you've been guilty of treating the Mass as mere obligation.

The irony is that the Mass was never meant to be a burden. Rather, it has always been meant to help unite us with Jesus and the community of Catholics around the world!

In We worship: a guide to the Catholic Mass, Fr Oscar Lukefahr, C.M., a religious educator with over 40 years of experience, describes the Mass as a ritual, and compares it to the ritual of a baseball game: "Those who understand the rules and the rituals of baseball can have a great time at the game. Those who don't know baseball, on the other hand, will likely experience much confusion."

In a light-hearted, simple-to-read manner, Lukefahr gives good reasons to attend Mass, as well as a brief history showing how the Mass we celebrate goes way back to Jesus' time. He also takes a step-by-step walkthrough of the Mass, explaining along the way the significance of each part.

He also gives practical suggestions for participation at Mass in order to get more out of it, and then reveals why the Eucharist is key to the Mass, and the centre of all other sacraments of the Church (CCC# 1324).

To add value to the read, questions for reflections and activities for personal growth at the end of each chapter will help keep us engaged. A full chapter is devoted to addressing Frequently Asked Questions, which will likely satisfy most, if not all, of your own curiosity.

Not once during the read was I tempted to put the book down as dull or boring. In fact, the further I read, the more I wanted to know! Lukefahr provides a refreshing perspective on the Mass we attend each week, and promises to help the reader with the open heart to experience more fully the meaning of the Mass and the Eucharist.

For Catholics who want to deepen their knowledge on the Mass, or those who have lost the meaning of it, or those simply never understood it, We worship: a guide to the Catholic Mass makes a good read to help you appreciate and love the weekly hour-long devotion as the pinnacle of Christian prayer, where we come in full union with Jesus and the Church. ... Read more

Product Description
A former Protestant minister's own gripping story--how he was led to the Catholic Church by reading his Bible. Many Bible quotes. A real knock-out. Don't miss it. ... Read more

Product Description
Based on the Revised Standard Version - Catholic Edition, this sixth volume in this series leads readers through a penetrating study of the Letter to the Romans using the biblical text and the Church's own guidelines for understanding the Bible. Ample notes accompany each page, providing fresh insights and commentary by renowned Bible teachers Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch, and time-tested interpretations from the Fathers of the Church.

The Ignatius Study Bible also includes Topical Essays, Word Studies and Charts. Each page also includes an easy-to-use Cross-Reference Section. Study Questions are provided for each chapter of Romans that can deepen your personal study of God's Holy Word. There is also an introductory essay covering questions of authorship, date, destination, structure and themes. An outline of the Letter to the Romans and several maps are also included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

excelllent
I have read several of Scott Hahn's books(He explains the Catholic faith so well. ) and decided to order this because I have been studying carefully the book of Romans.This is an excellent resource, thorough and informative.I can't wait till they have completed their studies on the whole Bible so that I can order it!

Most thorough yet concise
The Ignatius series of commentaries are marked by their clarity and depth of coverage. Though a thin volume, this commentary on Romans is still packed with solid, doctrinally sound, exegesis.

Of course, it is difficult to review any in this series without thinking also of the Navarre series volume, The Navarre Bible: Romans and Galatians (The Navarre Bible: New Testament). The strength of the Ignatius commentary is it's broader overview word studies and outlines in addition to it's clarity. The strength of the Navarre commentary is in the introductory section - and the Navarre volume contains Galations and Romans together which seems to be a good fit as these two epistles overlap in so much of Paul's theology.The Navarre Bible also includes the parallel Latin vulgate not included in the Ignatius Bible.For the Ignatius commentary, you would need two volumes to get both Romans and Galations studies.

Having both the Navarre and Ignatius commentaries would be ideal for study and it is highly recommended to use both in preparation for teaching.However, if your budget allows only one or personal study is your sole purpose, the Ignatius study is the one to choose even if it requires obtaining the second volume for the epistle to the Galations.

Fabulous individual or small group study!
Our women's group was looking for a Catholic Bible study that did a good job of incorporating history, theology, and personal application all in one! This fabulous study has that and more! We are devouring it and savoring it. The footnotes are incredibly helpful in helping us put meaning to Paul's words, and the discussion questions do the job of reiterating Paul's meanings and giving our group a fabulous place to start our discussions. As the leader, I never have to stimulate discussion. In fact, thus far, we have always run long and had to cut people off to stop. There is so much valuable "meat" in this book, and it portrays Paul, the Catholic faith, and all of Scripture with reverence, accuracy, relevancy, and orthodoxy. I haven't found anything else that comes close to the depth and breadth of this study.

Print too small
The Ignatius Bible studies are great resources. The print, however, is unacceptably small. If you have even minor eye issues, you need magnification to use these study guides. This is a real drawback to an excellent series of commentaries.

Wonderful Personal or Small Group Study
Another great effort that makes the book of Romans come alive.The special helps reflect the historical and patristic positions on Scripture."Pop theology" is thankfully missing from this amazing study. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A CONTEMPORARY CATHOLIC SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY
Francis Schussler Fiorenza and John P. Galvin have gathered a group of contributors, including Avery Dulles, Roger Haight, Elizabeth Johnson, Regis Duffy, and Monika Hellwig, to make a systematic presentation of the Catholic faith.

In the Preface, the authors explain, "Preceding and following the Second Vatican Council, Roman Catholic theology experienced profound growth and development.These volumes seek to explain the major elements of Roman Catholic theology as it has developed in the wake of Vatican II.They are intended to present postconciliar theology as faithful to the Roman Catholic tradition, influenced by historical and ecumenical studies, open to new philosophical currents, and sensitive to diverse historical and cultural situations ...We therefore envisioned a collaborative work that would be comprehensive in its coverage, understandable to students, and centered around the current state of the question and the diverse developments in Roman Catholic theology since Vatican II."

Here are some representative quotations from both volumes:

"theology refers primarily to the human study of God." (V1, pg. 6)
"Theology relates to a community: a community of discourse and of faith." (V1, pg. 80)
"Reflections of divine truth are to be sought in all religions." (V1, pg. 101)
"The Constitution on the Church goes so far as to declare that people who without blame on their part have not yet arrived at an explicit knowledge of God are given the helps necessary for salvation.Apparently the intended meaning is that an atheist in good conscience can have the faith required for justification and salvation." (V1, pg. 115)
"Theological feminism is in part a critique of the propensity to literalize metaphors for God and to forget the dissimilarity in every analogy." (V1, pg. 181)
"Another controverted question ... is whether it would be possible to reformulate the ministerial role of the bishop of Rome, the pope, in such a way that what Catholics see to be his primatial service of unity may become acceptable to other Christians outside the boundaries of the Roman Catholic church." (V2, pg. 71)
"The term spirituality refers to the way human beings, individuals, and groups lead their lives considered from the point of view of union with God." (V2. pg. 135)
"The mistake of later centuries, encouraged by the Catechism of the Council of Trent, was to take the Tridentine decrees as the authentic and full teaching of the Christian faith on the eucharist rather than as the historically determined, apologetic, and defensive documents that they actually were." V2, pg. 280)
"The restoration of a permanent diaconate is of vital importance to the organic ordering of the church's ministry and to what is represented by the sacrament of order." (V2, pg. 302)

This set is a valuable, and moderately progressive summary of Catholic teaching, and will be of considerable interest to anyone interested in Catholic doctrine. ... Read more

Product Description

Well–known authors and researchers John Ankerberg, John Weldon, and Dillon Burroughs have updated and revised The Facts on Roman Catholicism, an important title from the popular Facts On Series (more than 1.9 million copies of books from this series sold).

Presented in a convenient question–and–answer format, readers are given a general overview and detailed information based on a biblical evaluation of the Roman Catholic Church. They discover similarities and differences between the basic theologies of Catholicism and Protestantism. Topics include:

• Have the basic doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church changed?
• What are the sacraments, and how do they function in the life of a Catholic believer?
• What does the Catholic Church teach concerning salvation?
• What unique role does Mary have in Roman Catholicism, and is it biblical?
• Can the differences between Catholics and Evangelicals be set aside?

Customer Reviews (15)

Half-truths and Lies more like it.
I am a born-again Christian, and a convert to the Catholic Church and I can promise you that this book is nothing but half-truths and lies. Don't waste your money because if you know nothing about the Catholic Church, this book isn't going to help you.If you disagree with the Catholic Church, this book isn't going to tell you anything new.If you ARE Catholic, this book is just going to make you laugh at how ridiculous they *try* to make us sound... and then when you're done laughing, you'll probably be angry.So honestly, don't bother.

Just the facts...
Just the facts...
John Ankerberg, JohnWeldon, and Dillion Burroughs continue their The Facts series with a look at the Roman Catholic Church, it's beliefs, and its origins.The authors answer 14 questions concerning the faith.One section discusses the most recent changes in the Catholic faith.I found the discussion on the Pope and Mary most interesting. Is the Pope infallible? Do the Catholics worship Mary and why?

I knew very little concerning the beliefs of the Catholic Church when I began reading this short book. I found it both informative and interesting.It is written from a Protestant viewpoint.

Good book, Wrong title
This is a great little book but unfortunately the authors have the title of the book wrong.A more fitting title would have been "The facts on a make-believe Church".The so called "facts" have nothing to do with reality.Most of their "research" it seems, has been done internet websites without much credibility.

The authors have gone as far as blatantly adding their own opinion and presenting it as a "fact".For example, the book states something like this:

"Mary may be venerated in the Catholic Church and any Catholic will tell you that worship is given to God alone, but to us it looks like Catholics worship Mary".

This is laughable and pathetic methodology.

Other places of the book has blatant lies, for example, in the section of the dogma of Papal Infallibility and the history behind it.There is not a shred of truth in the way they have presented this and if I were the authors I would be embarrassed to have such a weak straw man book out bearing their names as the authors.

The saddest thing about this book is that it is on sale and multitudes of less informed Protestant Christians will read it and accept it as "fact".

If I want the facts on Islam, I won't go to a Jehovah's Witness and likewise if you want facts on the Roman Catholic Church, don't go consulting Protestant books.Especially not this one.

Two thumbs down for this book.

Just another form of anti-Catholicism
When people are going to tracts for their information on the Catholic Church, they are begging to be misinformed. This booklet is 58 pages and it claims to present "facts" on the Catholic Church. The obvious problem with that is that 58 pages is probably not sufficient for some of the single issues dealt with in a half a page (which are about half the size of normal book pages).

The book is full of lies and half truths. Papal Infallibility is "demonstrated" false, because of what August Hassler said. The section on papal infallibility ends with the author saying the history of the Church has demonstrated that it is not infallible. That is literally what the last sentence says That is a decieving line, because any serious Catholic knows what Ankerberg and Weldon are getting at. They are implying that because the Church has acted immorally it must not be infallible. No, the Church teaches that it will not teach error, not that it's members won't sin. Beyond that, the authors do not give one example of how the history of the Church proves the pope to be fallible when speaking ex cathedra.

They also give blatant disregard to the standing of Mary in the Church. They devote about 2 mini pages to her. Volumes have been written on the topic, but we are supposed to be convinced with 2 pages. The fact that they do not understand the Church's position does not bother them either.

Basically, Weldon and Ankerberg do not know what they are talking about. They claim the Church errs, because it accepts tradition over the Bible, even though it is only through Church Tradition that we even have a Bible. Regardless of what the authors want to tell themselves, the Church established by Christ made the Bible. The Bible did not make the Church.

There is a reason they didn't write a book on the topic, only a large tract that can be read in about an hour. It is because these little books are generally not taken serious by serious Catholics, but people who know nothing about the Catholic Church will be convinced that it is not the True Church.

Only read this if you are already convinced that the Catholic Church is wrong and you will do anything to support you view. Otherwise, this is a good fire starter.

Excellent summary on the difference between C & P
I am an ex-Catholic, youngest of 11 children, went to mass every Sunday of my youth, confirmed etc.Then I was saved and learned the difference between religion and faith, fear and grace, history and truth.When Chist said "it is finished", it really was.We are justified by Christ work on the cross, nothing else, we are saved by grace, nothing else.There are good Christians in the Catholic church, but one will have a very hard time growing in their relationship with the Lord, by staying within a doctrine that places church history and papal perfection on par with the word of God.Just try and find a Bible in a Catholic church and that tells you pretty much what you need to know.This book is wonderful and absolutely accurate on revealing the false teachings within the Catholic church and how they clash with SCRIPTURE.No matter what I say, you will not understand until God has removed the scales from your eyes, and only he can do that. ... Read more

Product Description
By a noted Catholic scholar, this volume answers the need for an up-to-date and concise source book on the principle teachings of the Catholic Church. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Very useful for Theology study
Concise and precise definitions on some of the most important themes on Catholicism. Could not do without for my studies in Roman Catholic Theology.

Excellent introduction to the Roman Catholic Church
When I was looking at Catholicism in the early 1990s, this was the only book available to me on Catholic doctrine in my public library.I lived in a very small, mostly Mormon town.

This book was a huge influence on my life.I ended up becoming Catholic after my move to Salt Lake City.I have often referred back to this book.It is very clealy written and quite useful to the ordinary Catholic.

You won't find anything in here that is contrary to Catholic teaching.It is a faithful and sure exposition of the Catholic faith.

Excellent resource!
Fr. Hardon's book is an excellent companion to the official Catechism of the Catholic Church. It is a wealth of information that goes deep into explaining how the Church developed the Catechism. The material follows the Catechism in order, so it is easy to find commentary. In addition, the index is very detailed, and also provides a quick resource for finding information. This book is a "must have" for anyone learning, teaching, or inquiring into the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Basic Catechism, lacking in content
I liked this Catechism until I read the "Catechism of the Catholic Church".There's no comparison.This Catechism makes it difficult to find answers to particular questions, and is not as thorough in its discussions as the other. I don't have a working knowledge of basic theology and that is probably why I found this difficult to read.

A Clear Deep Examination of the faith
A very informative, lengthy examination of what it means to be a Catholic.While it is true that the book is rather lengthy, it is also true that the book does not have to be read in one sitting.The writing is clear and the book is well-organized and researched.Pull open the book to an interesting looking section (after reading that first section) and you will find a deep well-thought out examination of that topic.If after reading that section you feel a need to take a break, well the book will be patiently waiting for your return.This is not supposed to be medicine, but a clear deep look into the Catholic faith.

Note 1: As might be seen by the "Search Inside" feature (if it is activated), this book is the narrative type of catechism, not the question and answer style catechism.
Note 2: The product information mentions that this is an "up-to-date" book.While that could very well be true, there are Catholic Catechisms published closer to 2005 (as opposed to 1975).I have no reason to believe that the information has been superseded. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

foundations
the book gives a lot of background on Catholic beliefs and Christianity...it answers who, what, when, where, & why some of our faith and traditions began... ... Read more

Product Description

In this widely acclaimed book that will long remain an indispensable work on American religion and the Catholic Church, one of its most influential laymen in the United States says that the Roman Catholic Church in America must either reform profoundly or lapse into irreversible decline.

In addition to providing a spiritual identity for over 60 million Americans, the church is the nation's largest nongovernmental provider of education and social services, as well as the largest not-for-profit provider of health care. But even before the recent revelations about sex abuse by priests, American Catholicism was already heading for a major crisis, with its traditional leadership depleted by the decline in religious vocations and paralyzed by "theological gridlock."

Catholicism in the United States confronts hard choices among contrasting visions for the future, choices with huge implications for American life. Analyzing these choices in ways that escape all the familiar labels of conservative or liberal, Steinfels points to the directions the church must take to survive.Amazon.com Review
American Catholicism "is on the verge of either an irreversible decline or a thoroughgoing transformation,"according to author Peter Steinfels, veteranreligion reporter and writer of the "Beliefs" column for the New York Times. In the face of the Church’s dauntingsex scandal, few could argue withSteinfels’ dramatic assessment. But what makes this book especially unique and controversial is that Steinfels believesthat the American Catholic Church would stillbe grappling with impending decline or a serious overhaul even if the heinous acts of sexual misconduct had never occurred.

Customer Reviews (19)

The most brilliant and profound book I have read on contemporary Roman Catholicism.
This is, without question, the most brilliant and profound book I have read on the crisis in the contemporary Roman Catholic Church.It is as vital and meaningful today as it was when it was published.And things are indeed worse today for the Roman Catholic Church than they were in 2003. Problems described in detail by Steinfels have not been addressed; there is a greater clergy abuse scandal now than there was earlier in the century; and the divide between Catholics and arch-conservative Catholics is as great as ever.I strongly recommend this book to Catholics who are genuinely concerned about the fate of their church; I recommend itto those who want to understand the baffling problems they see around themselves not only in Catholicism but in other Christian sects as well.And I recommend the book to anyone who is concerned with the problems of religion in contemporary America.------I will not try to list or describe the many topics addressed by Steinfels.Other reviews here can provide this sort of information. Let me say rather than Steinfels does not simply address social problems.He addresses the problems of Catholic theology as well.And he is unfailingly insightful and his writing is eloquentand compelling.----- A personal note: after 12 years of struggle, I have left the Roman Catholic Church.My conscience gave me no choice but to do this on moral grounds.But I deeply respect the decisions of millions of Catholics to remain in the church in spite of its many problems today.And I respect a learned Catholic like Steinfels who has put considerable effort into this intelligent, patient, and thoughtful book.---- I ask readers to ignore some of the negative reviews on this site. Unless you have struggled with the battles within the Catholic Church you cannot be aware of how acrimonious arch-conservative Catholics can be to anyone who seeks to constructively criticize Catholicism.Again, I wholeheartedly recommend this book.

Mr Steinfels Again has Totally Wrong Premise, As His Otherbooks on Catholicism Show
IndisputableReality is That the Roman Catholic Church in the USA is the Fastest Growing Church inthe USA, According to the National Council of Churches. They Listed RCC at 2.6% Growth in 2005, 2% Growth in USA 2006.That translates into approximatelly 1.7 Million MoreActive Catholics in 2005, And over 3 Million More to 69 Million in last 2 years. Vastly Higher than Any Other Church, Since RC Church is By Far the Largest in USA.Mr Steinfells Ignoresthe Vast Viewership of EWTN Cable/satellite/online, With its Profound, Rich, Traditional, Superior, Thought Provoking Programing Content. Mr SteinfelsAlso ignores the Rapid Growth of Traditionalism in Roman Catholicism. Traditional Churches are Only ones Growing.Mr Steinfels wrote Another book in 2006, Alleging"100,000 Catholic Nuns" Left Their Orders Since Vatican II of 1960's, Atributing that to Male Only Dominating CatholicBishops.Totally Wrong on Both Premises. FIRST, Vast Majority of the "100,000" "Nuns" who left Did Not. They Diedof Old Age, "On the Job". Mr Steinfels so admitted to This Reviewer on the Live NPR Diahn Rehm National Callin. He admittedusing Dead Nuns in his Figure of how many left.And it was the Liberal Misunderstandings Following Vatican II that caused most Departures > No Need of Uniforms/habits, Perhaps Marriage Allowed, etc.All seriousMisunderstandings, Opposite of Vatican II. Media Hype, AsMrStyeinfels is Now doing, with 2 Highly Misrepresenting Books, Is Primary Reason. And Vocations to Traditional Nunneries is "rapidly" Growing, Quite the Contray to Mr Steinfels' False allegation of Decline in NunsContinuing.Mr Steinfels Needs to find Topics he can Write aboutWithoutGravelly False Premises. Vocations to Catholic Clergy are Rapidly Growing. 2for Priesthood, One for Teaching Nun, One to ReligiopusBrother, in 2 Nearest Parishes to me. And Arlington Virginia Catholic Diocese (Northern Virginia) has 33 In Seminary for Priesthood Now.

Catholicism in the U.S.A.
Peter Steinfels is a 'New York Times' columnist and in this book he analyzes the major institutional challenges facing American Catholicism in the twenty-first century. He focuses on Church leadership, priest sex-abuse scandals, contrasting visions and gender issues. He maintains that the Church is at a crossroads, poised "on the verge of an irreversible decline or a thoroughgoing transformation" and offers recommendations for action.

A Sobering Work
As the crisis in the Catholic Church unfolded in all its ugly details, a number of books were published with the intent of giving perspective about what has been happening in the Church. Three books that continue to educate and enlighten are George Weigel's THE COURAGE TO BE CATHOLIC which approaches the issue from a more traditional approach. David Gibson's THE COMING CATHOLIC CHURCH looks at the church from the point of view of a journalist and Catholic convert. Peter Steinfels' A PEOPLE ADRIFT has been dubbed "the liberal" book, perhaps because of Steinfels' association with the magazine COMMONWEAL.

One of the strengths of the Catholic Church is that it combines both faith and reason. Just look at how many great thinkers have been in the Catholic tradition and how many of the brilliant minds have been people of deep faith too: Saints Thomas Aquinas, Augustine, Bonaventure, and Anselm are just a few great minds. A rigorous intellect is seen as a gift from God and a gift to be used. Church documents are constantly calling us to "read the signs of the times" and apply the faith accordingly. To do this, we need to listen to a variety of authentic perspectives, knowing that no one person has all of the truth or the exact answer, while trusting to that the Spirit is alive in the Church, the Church being both the leadership and magisterial authority and the people of God, not one or the other, but both. Peter Steinfels and George Weigel seem to embrace faith and reason as well as the importance of reading the signs of the times and both give us a perspective of doing so in A PEOPLE ADRIFT and THE COURAGE TO BE CATHOLIC.

The strength of A PEOPLE ADRIFT is Steinfels' ability to define the problem and give an accurate portrayal of Catholics in The United States, both those who see themselves as practicing and connected to the Church and those who may be what some call "culturally Catholic." While some may see this book as a thinly disguised book that calls for a relaxation of Church teaching on sexual matters, a call for women's ordination and an end to the celibate priesthood and a weakening of ecclesial authority, a careful reading will prove otherwise. What Steinfels does is paints a picture of Catholic life today and shows not so much the variety of people as much as the variety as to what the Church believes and how the lived experience can be somewhat different. He discusses a number of opposing points of view among Catholics on matters of supreme importance and more trivial areas. Readers may not always like what is said, but Steinfels isn't so much stating a point of view as he is stating the problem and what has to be addressed for the future.

For me, the broad scope of the book is impressive and the background information in the book is fascinating. I also believe the book doesa good job at stating Catholic beliefs about issues such as abortion and homosexuality and how the reasons behind Catholic teaching in these areas differs from others who may share the point of view. He also does a good job at summing up the opposing arguments on these issues and how they are inconsistent. This is not a book that everyone will agree with, and it's not perfect. It does point out the seriousness of eth problems facing the Church and the danger and irreparable harm that will result of the issues are not addressed. Also, since perspective is important, the books by Gibson and Weigel on these issues should not be ignored either.

Nice Commentary on Current Issues.
Steinfels has a vested interest in the subject matter of this book and that makes a positive difference.

I believe, like the author, that the Roman Catholic Church is in troubled times.Although this is not the first time in the history of Christianity that the Church has found itself reflecting on its mission in the world and its relationship to that world, Steinfels (a Catholic, a writer and a historian) makes an effort to look at today's issues and elucidate possible problems and solutions.

He does a good job at presenting the issues and approaching them from a variety of angles.The topics - always handled with respect - lead to great conversations.

I would highly recommend this book for anyone who is seriously engaged in the Church or is curious about the current struggles that we as a community of believers are facing today.

Read this book.
... Read more

Product Description
This comparative study shows that Protestants and Catholics are not as separated theologically as they may think. An excellent reference tool or textbook. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Most of it rates five stars
This book is divided into three sections plus six appendices.Section 1 is about the beliefs that Roman Catholics and evangelicals hold in common.This section draws mostly on Roman Catholic sources, including early sources such as Jerome, Augustine, and Aquinas, plus more recent sources, to define the doctrines.For some of the beliefs, the core doctrine is held in common but there are nuances within the doctrine where there is disagreement, and some of these nuances are explained.Many readers will be surprised at how much agreement there is, and nearly all readers will enjoy this section.In Section 1, some of the chapters cover more details than I need.The chapter on ethics includes a discussion of law, defining eternal law, natural law, human law, and divine law.I thought it was a bit too much, but some people will be happy that it is so thorough.

Section 2 covers many of the doctrines where Roman Catholics and evangelicals disagree.Here, it is clear that the authors are on the side of evangelicals.The typical pattern for each topic is to state the Roman Catholic belief and the arguments supporting it.The arguments are often categorized as Scripture, tradition, and logical.The authors then present evangelical arguments to oppose each one of the Roman Catholic arguments, plus additional arguments.The arguments on the evangelical side are much longer and detailed and it is clear that the authors believe that the evangelical arguments are the correct ones.At times, when introducing the Roman Catholic doctrine, the authors say that the doctrine is repugnant to evangelicals.Evangelicals would agree with them.I can imagine that Roman Catholics would be offended by that, but it is the honest truth about how evangelicals feel about some doctrines.The authors try to be polite (and generally succeed), but not at the expense of watering down the evangelical point of view.Sometimes it seems, even to me, that the authors' arguments are too lengthy, bringing up some points that just will not impress a Roman Catholic who doesn't hold to sola scriptura.I recommend that you should read the first two arguments in favor of each evangelical doctrine, then skim the rest.Throughout this section, there are quotations from Roman Catholic councils, stating infallible Roman Catholic doctrine, in the form of "if anyone says ... let them be anathema," where they are usually referring to important evangelical doctrines.Sadly, since these statements are infallible, they are also irreversible.

I expected to see a detailed discussion of infused righteousness (held by Roman Catholics) vs. imputed righteousness (held by evangelicals).Imputed righteousness is mentioned in passing several times:page 229, 447, 495, and 500.Most of these are actually quotes of someone else speaking of imputed righteousness, and the doctrine is not explained in detail or contrasted with infused righteousness.The book gives more attention to "extrinsic justification" and "forensic justification", which mean either the same thing, or something similar to, imputed righteousness.

Speaking of the Roman Catholic doctrine of justification, it mentions "works" quite a bit.It does not specify exactly what these works are, give examples of such works, or say how many works are needed for justification.

The book does not explain all seven of the Roman Catholic sacraments.It discusses baptism and Eucharist quite a bit, and penance some, but most of the others are not explained.

One bone to pick with Section 2 is that the book introduction, and the promotional material on the back cover do not mention that book is includes arguments to refute Roman Catholic doctrines.

Section 3 is about cooperation and joint action between Roman Catholics and evangelicals.Some of the material is about activities that were current at the time the book was written, 1995, so this information is out of date.I enjoyed Chapter 19, Spiritual Heritage, which gives a short summary of many Roman Catholic books, starting with The Life of Antony, by Athanasius, A.D. 357, through Pensees, by Blaise Pascal, 1670.It also mentions hymns and other art forms.Much of this section is about events that were current when the book was published, 1995, but are no longer current.

The appendices are very good - don't skip over them just because they are formatted as appendices.They could just as well have been formatted as chapters, but they don't neatly fit into one of the three sections of the book.

This book does not define "evangelical."For the purposes of this book, the word probably should be defined in a wide sense, to include anyone who identifies himself as an evangelical or protestant.One who affirms sola scriptura - the doctrine that all faith is based on the Bible, not on church tradition.Evangelicals are not a monolith.That is, various evangelical denominations and various evangelical individuals agree on some doctrines but disagree on other doctrines.The book mostly deals with doctrines that are shared by all evangelicals to a considerable degree.Sometimes it deals with doctrines which are disputed among evangelicals, and it mentions the various evangelical views, along with the Roman Catholic view.It is written from a conservative to moderate Baptist position, affirming beliefs such as the virgin birth of Jesus, the deity of Jesus, and Biblical infallibility.Norman Geisler describes himself as a "moderate Calvinist."I read somewhere that he is a two-point Calvinist, accepting total depravity and perseverance of the saints, and rejecting unconditional election, limited atonement, and irresistible grace.I also watched his video on Youtube, "Why I am not a five point Calvinist", where he rejects and refutes all five points, making him what - a 0 point Calvinist?

One of the reviews says that the book is poor because it is written by two evangelicals.The first section of the book is about doctrines where Roman Catholics and evangelicals agree.These doctrines are explained using many quotes from early Roman Catholic theologians (Augustine, Aquinas, and Anselm), more contemporary Roman Catholic theologians (Ludwig Ott, Cardinal Ratzinger), Roman Catholic councils (Nicea, Chalcedon, Trent, Vatican II).Considering the many quotes of Roman Catholic sources, it is hard to see how the Roman Catholic doctrines could be inadequately or improperly presented.Some Roman Catholic reviewers of the book affirm that this is well done.It is true that if you only want to learn about Roman Catholicism, you would want a book written by Roman Catholics.But this book is about comparing and contrasting Roman Catholics and Evangelicals.One reviewer complained that too much is based on Ludwig Ott's Fundamentals of Catholic Dogma.This was first published in 1957, so it may be a bit dated.It has a five-star rating on Amazon, based on 28 reviews.

I recommend this book to evangelicals and Roman Catholics who want to know more about the doctrines of both groups.If you are Roman Catholic who believes and loves all of your doctrines, exercise some tolerance as you read the arguments against your doctrines.You are learning what those arguments are, even though you do not agree with them.

Addendum, Sept 7, 2010
I read Roman Catholics and Evangelicals:Agreements and Differences by Norman Geisler and Ralph MacKenzie, then I read Roman Catholicism:Evangelical Protestants Analyze What Divides and Unites Us.The first, being written by a two person team, is more consistent.It follows a pattern of explaining a Roman Catholic doctrine, briefly giving a list of the Roman Catholic arguments in favor of the doctrine, giving a longer evangelical response to each Roman Catholic argument, then giving additional evangelical arguments.It mostly discusses official Roman Catholic theology, based on the Council of Trent and other infallible writings of the Roman Catholic Church.

The second book, Roman Catholicism, is a collection of 13 essays.It is about 100 pages shorter, but some of the essays, especially the first six, are more technical and difficult to read.It is not as structured with lists of arguments, and the writing is less uniform because of the various authors.Roman Catholicism describes the theology of the Council of Trent, various creeds, writings of popes and other councils, Vatican I and Vatican II, writings of twentieth century liberal Roman Catholic theologians, and the practices and beliefs of the laity.

Which book is better?If I had read just one of these books, I would have to choose the Geisler book, Roman Catholics and Evangelicals, because it is easier to read.But Roman Catholicism has a lot more historical information that is very valuable and some of it is reasonably easy to read.Both books are written from a conservative viewpoint.

Amazon purchase
My book was exactly as advertised, came quickly, price was excellent. I highly recommend this seller. Thanks so much. AAAAAAAA+

Read the Catechism to learn about the Catholic Church
Think about this;
Would you trust a book written by two Liberals trying to explain the differences and similarities between conservatives and liberals?Or vice versa, two conservatives trying to explaing and have a "dialog" about the differences and similarities between liberals and conservatives?Not a chance!Because no matter how sincere they might be, thier personal bias would come out.
This book is written by two Protestants.Enough said.If they wanted a fair book that truly presented and articulated the Catholic postitions.They would have had somebody like Scott Hahn write and defend the Catholic position.
I give all Evangelicals a challenge.Instead of reading this book. Go to the Catholic Encyclopedia or EWTN's web site and download all the writing's of the Church Fathers from the first one hundred years of Christianity.Read these writings from the first Christians for yourself.You will be able to read all of these writings probably in less time then it would take you to read this book.See what the first Christians believed and tought from thier own words and not the filter that Geisler and McKenly put them thru.It always amazes me that none of my evangelical friends will read any of the writing's of the early Church for themselves.Instead they rely on 2nd and 3rd hand info like the authors of this book.
There is a reason that we Catholics have feast day's, honor and name our Churches after the leaders of the early Church.It's because these were the first heroes of the Catholic Church.The Catechism of the Catholic Church is the book you should read and refer to when wanting to learn about the Catholic Church and by the way, it is also loaded with quotes from the Church Fathers, aka, first Christians.
Peace and God Bless.

Finally!A book to replace Boettner that we can all agree on.
Like several other reviewers of this book, I too am a Catholic and still am.But this is a wonderful book about the Catholic church written by Evangelicals. They don't set up straw men when combating Catholic arguments. I love the fact that in each chapter, they lay out the issues, quoting from authoritative Catholic sources.Not only that, they then try and give the MOST persuasive arguments they know of in FAVOR of the Catholic position before attempting to refute it.Obviously the authors have a tremendous amount of respect for Catholicism and treat it as such.Of course, I do think their arguments can be countered.I recommend this book to any evangelical who would like to know the Catholic Churches teaching from an Evangelical.

Worth studying
Catholics will likely find the second section of this book too critical, while Evangelicals will likely find the third section far too liberal.Imagine Catholicism is a house, and Dr.Geisler is an expert building inspector. He examines the house and concludes the foundation is sinking, the walls are infested with terminites, the water pipes leak, the roof is full of gaping holes, the wiring is exposed, the windows are broken, the sewer line is full of roots, and there's a gas leak. In fact the house is so dilapidated you might be safer in a cave or a tree house.He strongly warns, but still approves the permit and allows the house to be occupied---apparently on the theory that most people 500 years ago or more lived in lousy housing---so somehow it's acceptable today.

To understand Dr. Geisler's view, it might help to read his Systematic Theology, Vol. 3 on the fourteen explicit and implicit conditions to believe to be saved.For example, he states that one need not (explicitly or implicitly) believe in Christ's bodily ascension,
his present session (intercession), or his bodily second coming in order to be saved. Of the other conditions, he states one need not explicitly believe in Christ's virgin birth, his sinlessness, his humanity, or the Trinity, so long as one doesn't actually deny them. He affirms one must explicitly belive in the necessity of grace and faith, but denies one
must believe in their sufficiency---which explains how he ends up approving the house permit.

In other words, a bare minimal gospel, which both sides would likely find insufficient allows him to include believing Catholics. Essentially, he denies the necessity of belief in faith alone by grace alone in Christ alone (forensic justification), while absolutely believing this to be correct. He believes this is the way God actually saves whomever he
saves whether they believe it or not. If faith alone by grace alone in Christ alone is an essential part of the gospel as he admits, then how can belief in this be neither explicitly nor implicitly necessary to be saved? If it is absolutely true and essential, then how can anyone who explicitly denies it be saved?Logically it seems Dr. Geisler should acknowledge that forensic justification must implicitly be believed to be saved, or at an absolute minimum not be denied.Catholicism neither explicitly nor implicitly believes this but explicitly denied it at Trent, thus meriting it the title of an apostate church in the eyes of the Reformers. ... Read more

Product Description
About this book: This study edition contains the following: Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, Baptism of Children, Reception of Baptized Christian, Confirmation, Penance, Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharist outside Mass, Marriage, Pastoral Care of the Sick: Rites of Anointing and Viaticum, and the Order of Christian Funerals. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Rites of the Catholic Church, Volume II
very good service, del. before due date, better shape than quoted,
will use this vendor again,,, Thanks

Decent work for New Rites
Even though this book is intended for Priests of the Roman Catholic Religion, as a Minister I found it useful. I have always been a fan of the Catholic Rituals, Vestments, and Vessels for Liturgy and have used Catholic Rites in my own church. This book will give you the updated versions of Rites for blessings, consecrations, mass, and so on.

If you can get a copy of it, there is a much better and much older book called PARISH RITUAL that gives the pre-Vatican II rites in both Latin and English. If not, this could be a fine substitute.

What we pray is what we believe
In following the Religious Studies motto of "lex orandi lex credendi" (basically: what we pray is what we believe), this is an excellent resource for studying the Catholic Faith in its official form. Part 1 covers the Rites of the Sacraments except for Matrimony and Holy Orders. Before each Rite, there's a sort of introduction and some form of letter from the Vatican that "authorizes" each Rite, something important for Catholics who believe that communion (or atleast faithfulness) to the Pope is essential. If you're the type that likes to go into the raw sources, this book is for you. If you want a book that summarizes and gives you systematic theology, you might want to consider the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, or Catholicism (by McBrien) that already does all the dirty work. God bless in your studies!

very satisfied
I am very satisfied with the book, the promptness, and the experience. Thank you very much.

The Roman Ritual
This book is part of the expanded Roman Ritual and Roman Pontifical presented to the American Church. While I dont agree with many of the changes made by Vatican II, I will say that this book is a good resource for complete rites as used in the american church. I especially enjoyed the many different versions of the litany of the Saints presented herein as well as the blessing of pontifical insignia. ... Read more

Product Description
What is the Catholic Church’s position on the death penalty? How and why has it changed through the ages? In his engrossing and meticulously researched book, Capital Punishment and Roman Catholic Moral Tradition, E. Christian Brugger traces the history of this thorny moral issue.

Part 1 of the book offers a detailed exegesis of the Church’s account of the morality of the death penalty as formulated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Brugger argues that while the Catechism does not explicitly state that the death penalty is wrong, it lays down premises that logically imply this conclusion. Brugger argues that the fundamental moral reasoning found in the papal encyclicals Evangelium Vitae and Veritatis Splendor favor this same conclusion.

Part 2 provides an in-depth exploration of the treatment of the death penalty in the doctrine, traditional teachings, and texts of the Catholic Church. From the Old Testament and patristic writers to medieval and modern Catholic thinkers, Brugger mines this rich moral and theological tradition for arguments pertaining to capital punishment. He extracts from these teachings a "cumulative consensus" that capital punishment is morally legitimate and juxtaposes this traditional view with current church teaching.

Brugger’s historical and systematic analysis of contemporary and traditional Catholic teachings on the morality of the death penalty leads him to conclude that a philosophically consistent, doctrinally sound framework and vocabulary can and should be developed for rejecting the death penalty in principle. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good research--disconnected conclusion
Sadly, all this excellent digging into Patristic thought culminated in simple maralizing about capital punishment. Citing the US Conference of Catholic Bishops should be a red flag to anyone interested in scholarship instead of policy. The talented author here found what the patres said but one must suspect that he did not penetrate their thought. The Holy Father knew intimately the thought of the earliest christians as well as the philosophy that surrounded them when he wrote about capital punishment. This book gets the information but not the sense of what led John Paul II to restrict the need for what today is considered drastic punishment.

Frighteningly Poignant
I found Dr. Brugger's view of capital punishment and the Catholic view to be persuasive and articulate.I now consider the concept of capital punishment to be the greatest waste in humanity, perhaps only outdone by wrapping your Forest Green Porsce 911 around a tree.

Dr. Bruggers views should act as a beacon to us all.

A serious, in-depth, scholarly study
In Capital Punishment And Roman Catholic Moral Tradition, E. Christian Brugger (Assistant Professor of Ethics, Department of Religious Studies, Loyola University, New Orleans, Louisiana) critically examines the position of the Catholic Church on the death penalty down through the centuries to the present day. Professor Brugger postulates that while the Catechism of the Roman Catholic faith does not expressly condemn the death penalty, neither does it imply through logic that the death penalty is wrong. Capital Punishment And Roman Catholic Moral Tradition is a confidently recommended to a Roman Catholic readership as being a serious, in-depth, scholarly study of a controversial ethical, moral, and social issue. ... Read more

Product Description
This commentary by members of the Catholic Academy of Liturgy provides thoughtful analysis of the theological, pastoral, and ecclesial implications of the 2002 Institutio Generalis Missalis Romani (IGMR). Several prefatory chapters reflecting on the overall significance of the current Instruction are followed by a concise and meaningful chapter-by-chapter commentary. In addition to the full text of the Instruction in Latin and English, readers will find a varied and rich commentary by top liturgical scholars. No single author's viewpoint dominates, and yet the authors offer a consistent, readable text for everyone interested in the current state of liturgy in the Catholic Church. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Commentary on the General Instruction of the Roman Missal
This text completes and covers what the GIRM does not.It goes into more detail and explanations for different circumstances. It is a great asset to any Parish, DRE, Director of Liturgy and Pastor. ... Read more

Product Description
An unintimidating guide to understanding the Catholic Mass

Throughout the centuries, the liturgy of the Church has taken a variety of regional and historical forms, but one thing has remained constant: the Mass has always been the central form of Catholic worship.

Catholic Mass For Dummies gives you a step-by-step overview of the Catholic Mass, as well as a close look at the history and meaning of the Mass as a central form of Catholic worship. You'll find information on the order of a Mass and coverage of major Masses.

• Covers standard Sunday Mass, weddings, funerals, holiday services, and holy days of obligation
• Provides insight on the events, symbols, themes, history, and language of the Mass
• Translations of a Mass in Castilian and Latin American Spanish

If you're a Catholic looking to enhance your knowledge of your faith, an adult studying to convert to Catholicism, a CCD instructor, or a non-Catholic who wants to understand the many nuances of the Catholic Mass, this hands-on, friendly guide has you covered. ... Read more