Customer Reviews (3)

Bible Commentary
It is just what I was looking to use for the session I facilitate.It is a great resource.

Solid Ecumenical Catholic Commentary
This commentary tends to be very ecumenical.It isn't as quite as scholarly or apologetic as A New Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture.It is more faithful but slightly less scholarly than the New Jerome Biblical Commentary.It is definitively more scholarly and faithful than the Collegeville Bible Commentary.However, in form/text critisism the scholarship is very and up to date and in many instances better then the previously mentioned commentaries.
For example there is a very good section on the origins of the Gospels, which favors Matthew as being the first Gospel.Further, in the commentary on Romans, the form of Paul's argument is described in detail.Then in the commentary on Romans 3 the author notes that Paul uses the word translated as "faith" to mean "fidelity".He then uses a more ecumenical commentary on "faith alone" as "fidelity alone".
I've given it only four stars because lack of apologetical commentary which I think should be in every good Catholic Commentary.However, good apologetic commentary can be found in A New Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture but it is unfortunately out of print and becoming dated.

A Catholic & ecumenical commentary for the 21st Century
"Bridge-building" is the major contribution of this unique work.It was written by authors on all 6 major continents, excepting only Antartica.Writers were drawn from Catholic, Protestant and Orthodoxtraditions.The roster of contributors includes persons from developingcountries no less than affluent ones, and Third World scholars quite assignificantly as those from this country and Europe.

On one hand, thecommentary uses the New Revised Standard Version which was copyrighted bythe National Council of Churches in which Protestants figure predominantly. On the other hand, it carries the "Imprimatur" and "NihilObstat" of official approval from Rome and from the Bishop of St.Cloud (MN).

Given how culture-bound and language-specific andtradition-shaped all interpretive efforts are, one can easily see thewisdom of this project.Interpretation enjoys enormous benefits by thisproject's cross-cultural pollination of its work.Between the covers ofthis one book we see bridges being built between northern and southernhemispheres, between laity and clergy, between Church and academy, evenbetween experts who do not agree.

As a factual matter, this volume issuccessor to the 1953 Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture.But in themeantime we all have experienced the liberating effects of Vatican II, andin a very substantial way the IBC has admirably capitalized on the spiritof Vatican II.Some 120 authors from the various major traditions ofChristianity were brought together by the eminent Gospels scholar WilliamR. Farmer and his 3 editorial asssociates.Together they have producedthis truly international and ecumenical commentary on the Bible.

TheIBC is destined for wide use well into the 21st century. ... Read more

Product Description
Michael Genin Would you be willing to let your children starve before denouncing your Catholic Faith? Do you have the courage to take the place of a galley slave so that he could return to his family, knowing that you will most surely die at sea? Could you hide a priest in your home even though the penalty for such a crime is to be hanged, drawn, and quartered ? From the green hills of Ireland to the rugged coastland of Algeria to the war-torn Balkans, ordinary men and women have been willing to take extraordinary risks in order to remain loyal to the one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church. Come now and discover the amazing stories of life, death, and allegiance to the Truth tucked within some of the most overlooked chapters of Catholic history. Once you've met these forgotten heroes and read their moving and inspirational stories, you'll never take your Faith for granted again. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Forgotten Heroes
I liked this book a great deal for five reasons. First, I love reading Butler's lives of the saints, and always wished that there were stories that were historically accurate and spiritually encouraging that went beyond the straight hagiographical nature of Butler. This book does that. While this book, to me, is more geared toward teenagers, as an adult I have been very moved and engaged by them. I liked learning about the general history of the various eras while I was being edified. Second, I appreciate the way that the author does not sugar coat the historical context. There were bad bishops, bad priests, just like now. Too often devotional books overlook that fact, weakening their credibility. Third, while not exactly a polemical piece, as a non-Roman Catholic I did feel that Genin was trying to show that some of the myths about the RCC, owing to `Romophobia', were flat out wrong. In that attempt I feel he has succeeded, which I appreciate. Fourth, the author covers some religious movements that I was just unaware of, like the Mercedarians, who would sacrifice their own freedom to liberate Christians held captive by Muslims. Fifth, the stories are short enough to read in one brief sitting and then just think about throughout the day or evening, making this quite a piece f devotional literature.

It's a great book and I would hope that more would follow.

Action, Adventure & Faith
Engaging, timeless stories that bring to life holy men and women willing to give their lives to practice their faith. Perfect reading level for young adults, or younger children with adult guidance. Ideal for discussion with those of an age where going to church, at times, may feel more like a burden than a privilege. Learning how others willing gave their lives for their faith, should stengthen an appreciation for privileges often taken for granted today. Could be used for book club reading for a church youth group - read a chapter and discuss. Adults can also learn from these tales. Could we, with God's grace, face similar challenges with such bravery? What challenges to our faith do we face today, not nearly as threatening as the gallows, and how do we respond. . .
... Read more

Product Description
This is an excellent compact edition of the Catholic edition of the Revised Standard Version of the Bible. I highly recommend it as a gift, or for personal devotional reading, and especially for commuters and helpers of the sick and dying. Its slim size and light weight is also ideal for those who move around with a lot of books or papers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

Handy size, but. . .
This is a handy size for travel, consequently, the print is very small.Cover is beautiful burgundy, but the zipper should extend into the spine to make this easier to hold open when reading.Beautiful Miraculous Medal zipper pull.

Great size
Great size for travel or just putting in your purse to take to an appointment.Yes, the font is a little small but what else can you expect for a Bible that size.

Small Print
This compact bible is just that, a small bible for on the go or for convenience. The print is small but readable. FYI: Even though this is a Catholic bible, it's a revision of the American Standard Version 1901, which is a revision of the KJV 1611 with the the seven Deuterocanonical books from the Septuagint (normally called the Apocrypha by Protestants) not found in the KJV. If you are elderly, get the reading glasses out and buy book mark ribbons. Materials and craftsmanship in the construction of this bible are superb. I would recommend this bible to anyone who desires a compact bible.

This Bible has served me well for 5 years now, only one qualm
I first bought this Bible back in 2005 and have not regretted it since.

I love that it is zippered because I can put it in my backpack and not worry about it when I am at school or travelling. The cover is extremely durable and well made.

The print is easy to read and pleasing to the eye. The pages are thin, but I have found that I can underline and highlight with very very little bleeding through to the next page.

The only problem I have with it is that the subsection titles that one finds in other Bibles are not present. I think it would be great if they made a 2nd Edition that mimics the Ignatius Bible 2nd Edition The Ignatius Bible: Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition.

This is not meant as a study Bible but I have found it very useful for using to look up Scripture passages when reading other books with Scripture references. It is small and portable so I can always have it handy and bring it out to look something up quickly if I need to.

Oh and it also has Dei Verbum (the Vatican II Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation) at the beginning.

So far it has lasted and served me very well for 5 years and I fully hope to have it around for the next 50 plus!

Good for Travel or if you have children
+JMJ+
This Bible is a great translation! I would caution though, that the print is rather small, and the footnotes are hard to read sometimes. The other feature I don't personally like is that the explanations for each book are altogether at the end of the Old Testament and at the end of the New Testament. But, this is a great Bible for devotional or prayerful reading! But I would not recommend it as a study Bible. If you have children, it is good that it is zipped so that little fingers stay out of it! ... Read more

Product Description
In Catholic Matters, Father Neuhaus addresses the many controversies that have marked recent decades of American Catholicism. Looking beyond these troubles to "the splendor of truth" that constitutes the Church, he proposes a forward-thinking way of being Catholic in America. Drawing on his personal encounters with the late John Paul II and Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, Neuhaus describes their hope for a springtime of world evangelization, Christian unity, and Catholic renewal. Catholic Matters reveals a vibrant Church, strengthened and unified by hardship and on the cusp of a great revival in spiritual vitality and an even greater contribution to our common life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

Catholic Matters:Confusion,Controversy and the Splendor of Truth.Excellent book For Catholics,Luthers,Protestants,lapsed.
Profoundly good and from a Great Source this is my first Neuhaus Book and I can't say how much I love it.It doesn't apologize for Being Catholic nor should it,great arguments and coming from a Former Lutheran.This is no Ordinary conversion,The book covers many things that trouble Catholics whether of the progressive side or the "Right"Side(emphasis mine).You want Catholicism? this is Catholicism,The Church has not and will not since it's inception back down from no one or no current and that's why People loathe Her.Neuhaus explains that "She"(The Church) is the Mother of us Catholics and the Bride of Christ,He explains how alot of things that Catholics believe are not being properly explained whether carelessly or ignored by clergy or the liberal types.

Many Golden Nuggets, but...
This book has many golden nuggets, such as a description of the scandalous reaction by many to Humanae Vitae.Yet, it comes across like a collection of essays.I believe that readers' time would be much better spent by reading the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Catholic Matters
I got this book out of the library and liked it very much.Fr. Neuhas writes well and truthfully.

The Catholic Church in the Age of Incoherence
Being an avid reader of "First Things" for a number of years, Richard John Neuhaus' death (January 7, 2009) was the catalyst for me to read "Catholic Matters." Neuhaus was an astute observer of the philosophical and theological "first things" in the public square, in Christian faith communities, and in his beloved Catholic Church. He caused people to think deeply about faith in today's complex world.

"Catholic Matters" provides the serious Catholic with the "Splendor of Truth." Neuhaus shares his own journey to full truth, from being a prominent Lutheran minister to a priest in full communion (contrast to conversion) with the Catholic Church. Neuhaus notes that Protestant churches are hemorrhaging and are now "sideline churches." On the other hand, the Catholic Church is not on the sidelines. It is the Church of Jesus Christ with the Spirit guiding it from beginning to end, and the end is not yet.

Neuhaus' call to action centers on the need for a robust, obedient Catholic Church. The alternative to obedience is a cacophony of Christians making it up as they go along as we experience today with a storm of different and conflicting ideas claiming to be the truth. "Confronted by such claims, we necessarily say `sez who?" And the response we get is that many people today acknowledge no authority but him/herself based on the authority of a tradition of Enlightenment rationality. This has now collapsed into incoherence.

A Church based in Christ and Truth offers the solution for our times. "The Church of Jesus Christ `subsists'in the Catholic Church....(and) if Christ intended a definite form for his Church and if one wants to be obedient to Christ's intention, then one should belong to the form of the church that most fully embodies that intention - The Catholic Church."

"Catholic Matters" includes sections on the Church's teachings on human sexuality, love, fidelity, marriage, the discipline of celibacy, and the adventure of living fully the culture of life; today's morality;unfaithful and ineffective preaching; Catholic dissidents who are suffering from "from delusions of self-importance;"Thomas Aquinas and distinctions between eternal law, natural law, positive law, and Divine law; and what has made the Church distinctive.

Neuhaus concludes that the "silly season is almost over and the initiative today is with the center.There are growing and vibrant networks of young professionals excited about being Catholic. The discontinuant left is dying because there is no successor generation."

But adds Cardinal Ratzinger's (prior to becoming Pope) caution, "We must brace ourselves for a time of deepened indifference and heightened hostility. Paul writes to Timothy that he has to proclaim the word "in and out of season," when it is popular and when it is despised. The task of the Church is not to be successful but to be faithful." In the final analysis, "Catholic Matters."

Eloquently Ecclesiastic
I just finished reading this fantastic book. I love G.K. Chesterton, and indeed, this wonderful writer is a man in the line of Chesterton.

If you want a book that speaks of Eternal Truth that is lived out most fully in the Catholic Faith guiding the Church by, with, in, and through the Holy Spirit, then this book is for you.If you are searching for the meaning of Truth, or are even currently in denial that there is eternal Truth, this is the book for you.

It is the book of one man's journey home to Rome, and his most excellent insights into what led to the misinterpretation and mistaken implementation of Vatican II Reforms. Nonetheless, his book is above all, a message of Hope and Triumph that shows that the Catholic Church in Americais truly on the brink of a great renewal; A renewal that in many ways is due to the Holy Spirit's work in the JPII Youth that are quickly becoming also "Benedict" Youth.

Goodness! So much to say, but this eloquent and engaging book is best seen not from a review, but from full on immersion into its adventurous and enamoring depths!"The Center Holds".!!!

Bravo! ... Read more

Product Description
In the second volume of the Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture (CCSS), George Montague offers a Catholic pastoral commentary on the letters to Timothy and Titus, presenting sound exegesis followed by reflection on the pastoral, theological, and practical applications of the text.The CCSS offers readable, informative commentaries from the best of contemporary Catholic scholarship to help readers rediscover the Word of God as a living word in which God himself is present. Each commentary relates Scripture to life, is faithfully Catholic, and is supplemented by features designed to help readers understand the Bible more deeply and use it more effectively in teaching, preaching, evangelization, and other forms of ministry. This series is perfect for professional and lay leaders engaged in parish ministry, lay Catholics interested in serious Bible study, and Catholic students. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Excellent
The book is well written and provides a good background to understand the early Christian church

Catholic Bible Study
Author brings a lot of scholarship and insight from a Catholic perspective into these short New Testament books. The exegesis of the holy writing is spoiled for me by speculation about the authorship of these books. This and the other title (The Gospel of Mark by Dr. Mary Healy) are books that I want on my shelf for future re-reading and meditation, along with the other titles that will be appearing in this series by Baker Academic.

A PASTORAL WORKERS HANDBOOK
I was delighted to find this fine book at our Parish Adoration Chapel a few months ago.After many years of working together with men, both young and old, seeking to live our lives according to Scripture, it is a delight to have this useful work.Fr. Montague writes in a style that is very clear and understandable, and provides good cross-references for further reading.The Index of Pastoral Topics is particularly useful for us ordinary people.I think I will attempt to collect the entire series.

Good perspective on the difficulties faced by the Early Church
I recently used this book by Father Montague in a class I took and in a class I taught.So my comments will include the comments of many of those who were in the class I facilitated.

First as a student, I found the book to be a very thorough treatment of the Pastoral Epistles, particularly in the cross references to Old Testament, New Testament and Catechism.When I put in the extra effort to pursue these references, I achieved a greater understanding and depth, not only in what Father Montague was saying about the particular passage, but also in the way in which the Church was applying what Paul's recommendations were to Timothy and Titus in establishing the new Church.

From a teaching experience, I can share that the questions posted on the publisher's website to be used with the book in a class environment could have benefited, perhaps, by a direct application of these cross references in order to answer fully the questions.The questions are appropriate for students of Scripture who are less familiar with the Bible, as they are more "Scriptural Application" kinds of questions, rather than in-depth study questions.

Some of those attending my class at the Parish were able to share personal situations and thoughts in a Scriptural context, and enjoyed the kind of "soul-searching" (words of one of the attendees) discussion the questions provoked.Others were hoping for more directed, in-depth study.All agreed, however, that the material in the book was well written, thought-provoking, and led to a more profound understanding of the early church and how it has developed.As another attendee stated,"I understand why the development of the magisterium was so important in keeping the young Church aligned with the Apostolic teaching."

I would recommend Father Montague's book for both a personal library addition, and as a source book for facilitating a class.

Bob

One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic
One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic
These are the words I would use to describe this promising new series:Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture, of which I just finished a 4 month study of I and II Timothy and Titus.Our scripture study group found this study to draw us to the very time and place in which this was happening and really show us the formation and tradition in the early Church.It helped me see how they were led to live the Great Commission: "Go... teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." What was divinely inspired then to St. Paul to become Holy Scripture, is now explained to us "modern" bible-studiers--from beginners to very experienced--by the commentaries thorough word exegesis. I strongly recommend for personal or group bible study.
... Read more

Product Description
Drawing on his long experience of having lectured, written on and taught the topic, Kenneth Himes has gathered here some of the most frequently asked questions on Catholic social teaching. Using the always popular Responses to 101 Questions format, he introduces this important part of the Catholic tradition to students as well as inquiring believers.

He divides this broad topic into seven manageable sections, each with a variety of provocative questions:

I General Background
II Ecclesiological Issues
III Foundational Themes:
IV Political Life
V Economic Life
VI International Life
VII Social Life

Some of the topics covered in the questions are: human dignity and human rights; the kinds of justice; family and social structures; justice and political life; the meaning of human work; labor unions and the rights of labor; the just wage; capitalism, socialism and communism; the just war tradition; pacifism; the arms race; debt forgiveness; women in society; racism; immigration and the death penalty. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good book, but not what I was looking for
This is a well-done book that answers many good questions. It wasn't what I was looking for, but I can't criticize the book itself.

Easy to read
I loved how this book was written. You can read cover to cover or go to the question that you need answered. A must have resource for all catholics. ... Read more

Product Description
This timely work explores two influential religious traditions that might seem to have little in common: Twelver Shi'i Islam and Roman Catholicism. With the worldwide rise of religious fundamentalism, it is imperative that religious movements such as Christianity and Islam begin working harder to understand one another's history and beliefs. Myths and misunderstandings continue to prevail, and observers tend to focus on the differences between the two faith systems.

Without denying these differences, the authors of this book reveal a number of interesting linkages between Roman Catholicism and Twelver Shi'ism. They compare the histories of the two faiths, consider parallels between important figures in each, and highlight the doctrinal, structural, and sociopolitical similarities they share. Balanced in tone and carefully researched, the book helps explain the essence of both traditions while enriching our understanding of each.

There are an estimated 140 million Twelver Shi'is in the world today. The highest percentages live in Persian Gulf countries, including Iran and Iraq, and in Azerbaijan, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. Sizable numbers also inhabit Pakistan, India, and Turkey. The largest Christian denomination, Roman Catholicism is present across the globe, though its population of more than one billion people is concentrated in North and South America and in Europe. ... Read more

Product Description
Like all good Jews, the apostles prayed the daily Jewish prayers in their synagogues and in the Temple in Jerusalem. But after meeting Jesus, they were drawn to deepen their prayer. Here was a holy man who enjoyed an intimate union with God and who even spent whole nights in prayer. No wonder the apostles begged,Lord, teach us to pray.

Chances are, you too have been praying for some time, perhaps even daily. Now in your journey of faith you are seeking to increase your understanding and practice of prayer, to move more deeply in Catholic ways to pray, a tradition that has a long, rich history.

Here you will find the information and inspiration you need to jumpstart your prayer life as a Catholic. May it be only the beginning of an exciting adventure for you as you walk more closely in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.

Highly recommended for all Catholic adults, including catechists, parish ministers, and RCIA teams, especially catechumens and candidates. Also a great gift book for neophytes! ... Read more

Product Description
In 1963, as Betty Friedan's Feminine Mystique appeared and civil rights activists marched on Washington, a separate but related social movement emerged among American Catholics, says Mary Henold. Thousands of Catholic feminists—both lay women and women religious—marched, strategized, theologized, and prayed together, building sisterhood and confronting sexism in the Roman Catholic Church. In the first history of American Catholic feminism, Henold explores the movement from the 1960s through the early 1980s, showing that although Catholic feminists had much in common with their sisters in the larger American feminist movement, Catholic feminism was distinct and had not been simply imported from outside.

Catholic feminism grew from within the church, rooted in women's own experiences of Catholicism and religious practice, Henold argues. She identifies the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), an inspiring but overtly sexist event that enraged and exhilarated Catholic women in equal measure, as a catalyst of the movement within the church. Catholic feminists regularly explained their feminism in terms of their commitment to a gospel mandate for social justice, liberation, and radical equality. They considered feminism to be a Christian principle.

Yet as Catholic feminists confronted sexism in the church and the world, Henold explains, they struggled to integrate the two parts of their self-definition. Both Catholic culture and feminist culture indicated that such a conjunction was unlikely, if not impossible. Henold demonstrates that efforts to reconcile faith and feminism reveal both the complex nature of feminist consciousness and the creative potential of religious feminism. ... Read more

Product Description
Internationally recognized expert and veteran of fifty trips to Rome, Frank Korn presents an insider's guide to the city. He describes not only the familiar churches, basilicas, and historic places, but also takes travelers on fascinating detours down back alleys to little-known, though very important sites. For both the public and the private Rome, he reveals the legends and traditions associated with each.

With a warm and engaging style, the author explains Jubilee Year background and ceremonies and offers Jubilee travelers meaningful alternatives to the typical sites with their expected three-times-heavier crowds. He also lists which church offers Mass in which language.

This guide is not only for Catholics but also helps travelers of other faiths appreciate a culture not their own. The author's storytelling style and invaluable facts, and the book's photos, maps, and index, make this a perfect choice for tourists and pilgrims, armchair travelers, priests and religious. It also offers "insider's info" that every travel agent and travel store will want to pass on to their customers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

perfect for first-time traveller
This book was very useful, very informative in helping my husband and I decide which of the hundreds of churches to see on our first visit to Rome.I've recommended this book to others, and even bought one for my brother for his first visit to Rome.

Rome Guide
A must have for visiting Rome.You need not be Catholic to want to visit the most important Basilica's and church's in Rome.This book will let you use your time to see the ones you want.

Rome For Catholic Pilgrims a Must
I travel to Rome as Pilgrim interested in the conversion of the city of Rome to Catholocism.This book covers in chapters or paragraphs the transition of this Empire to the Christian Faith.I took this book with me every day while we visited Rome's many churches.If you visit 3 churches without this book, they start to all mix in your mind.With this book, I could understand why each was built and bring to my prayer the saint or cause for which the church was built. It is a shame the content in this book couldn't be included in a practical tour book so you could just bring this.Also, it is light on the secular tourist interests in Rome.It could use a new edition, as this is the 2000 edition.However, don't worry, ROme doesn't expire in 9 years.

A Must Have Book For Any Catholic
I have had the great privilege of taking Professor Korn for four semesters of the Latin language and taking a class on the Archeology of Rome all at Seton Hall University. I went to Italy last semester with Professor Korn and he is the most knowledgeable man with Catholic and Roman history that I have ever known. He knows Italy and Catholicism inside and out. I recommend his wonderful book to any Catholic or those just curious about Catholicism in Rome. He Presented the book to the Late Pope John Paul II. A must have!

A MustRead & Take Along
I read this cover to cover before I went on my trip to Rome and I was
able to visit some of the lesser known churches that are not normally
on the guided tours like St Prassede, and St. Pudenziana. It includes
a great deal of the history of many of the churches and I HIGHLY
recommend it to any Catholic heading to Rome. ... Read more

Product Description
This 2000 book is a case study in the ongoing struggle of Christianity to define its relationship to modernity, examining representative Roman Catholic Modernists and anti-Modernists, exploring their relationship to their own historical context. Its aim is to counteract the tendency to lift the proposals made by the Modernists out of their setting and define them as a coherent, timeless philosophical/theological outlook, which should be avoided. The book seeks to correct the proclivity of some contemporary proponents of Modernist ideas to de-contextualize those ideas and recommend their endorsement without a critical reconsideration of historical changes. It sketches the nineteenth-century background of the Modernist crisis, identifying the problems that the church was facing at the beginning of the twentieth century; and offers a fresh perspective on the Modernist crisis, a perspective arising from the pioneering work undertaken by the Roman Catholic Modernism Working Group of the American Academy of Religion. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Far inferior to the fourth edition.
As a professor of Bioethics I have used the fourth edition of Health Care Ethics as a textbook in my classes numerous times.Although the fourth edition could have been better organized, as a whole I was always very pleased with it.I was especially pleased with the first seven chapters which were primarily devoted to the proper methodology of medical ethics.After all, if the student understands the methodology, they can solve ethical issues on their own.Because the pertinent bioethical issues are constantly evolving, specific case data often rapidly becomes obsolete.Alas, in the fifth edition the methodology is pared down to a mere two chapters.Furthermore, many of the chapters on specific issues are highly abridged, and often some of the better theological insights of the fourth edition are removed.
I am sure that Georgetown University Press believed that the fourth edition was getting too long and too complicated, and hence believed that a shorter text would be more marketable.Although I still highly respect the authors of the fifth edition, I am unimpressed with the book and do not ever plan on using the fifth edition as a textbook in my classes again.

clear teaching, not just opinion

When one observes that a book has gone through five editions in a period of approximately thirty years, the question arises as to the need or usefulness of yet another re-presentation by the same authors on identical topics.(N. B.These authors also have published three editions of a similar but simpler work, Ethics of Health Care, directed more toward a student or non-specialized readership.)The need for this book is made evident by the ever-increasing rapidity of developments in biotechnology which call for renewed investigation and application of ethical principles as new interrogatives surface.The usefulness of this edition (for the first time with Sister deBlois as a co-author) derives also from the fact that the level of the discourse is located somewhere between the more sophisticated theological analysis of the four previous editions and the less detailed approach of the simpler introductory handbook.An even greater distinction of this book is its clarity about bioethical matters in a world which often is confused and led about by not much more than the latest politically correct opinion.
The three principal divisions of the book may be described as treating of: ethical theory and its relationship to health care, clinical applications and social-pastoral approaches to health care and the sick.
In Part One, amidst a presentation of a variety of approaches to the foundations of ethics, the authors remain anchored in what they term as prudential personalism. With such a methodology, the good of the person is sought by the prudent application of moral principles.This is described not as a strictly deontological (duty-based) formula but more of a teleological (ends-means) system whereby choices are guided by that which will bring the moral agent to the achievement of the goal of personal existence.It is in this context that the inherent attractiveness of natural law theory is amplified since it corresponds to concepts which seek the fulfillment of the true good of our common human nature.Thus, the role of reason in ethical decision-making also finds a noble place along with a virtuous character in the moral armamentarium of the believer.
The Catholic moral system regarding these matters is described by demonstrating the role of the Magisterium as teacher (also for theologians).On page 25 the following statement is made:"In general it can be said that the moral teaching of the Church for the most part is infallible by reason of the fact that the universal ordinary teaching authority of the bishops has confirmed it as the teaching of the Church."A separate volume would be required to determine further the implications of such a statement.Double effect, cooperation, consent and confidentiality are highlighted as particularly relevant to health care decisions.
In Part Two, the authors succeed admirably in grouping numerous topics into four major categories: sexuality/reproduction, bodily reconstruction/modification, mental health and suffering/death.Valuable reasoning is provided in support of the personhood of the human embryo and the resultant respect it is to be accorded.The link between human sexuality and life issues is evidenced amply in the treatment of such matters as contraception, abortion and artificial generation of human life.Debated topics such as the management of ectopic pregnancies and the treatment of rape victims are discussed; the authors' conclusions are surely subject to further analysis.
With the ongoing development of medical and surgical techniques, interventions on the human body now have taken on a multiplicity of forms.Beginning at the genetic level and stem cells, the body is subject to manipulations such as cosmetic surgery, experimentation, enhancements and organ transplantation from living or dead persons.The authors deal with these topics in the context of therapeutic liceity while excluding attempts at the alteration of human nature itself.
As a result of many factors associated with modern living, more attention is directed these days to the preservation or restoration of mental health.The authors, while recognizing the value of many discoveries of mental therapy, maintain that this "level" of the human person must be considered in the overall context of Christian anthropology.Medical models and pharmacotherapy are evaluated alongside the various approaches in psychotherapy and the contribution of each toward developing the proper functioning of human freedom while respecting ethical boundaries is brought forth.
Our human condition brings along with it the reality of suffering and inescapable death.Both of these must be faced from a spiritual perspective but also require ethical guidance in patient management.It comes as no surprise that euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide are seen as thoroughly illegitimate.Palliative care and hospice are appreciated as moral means of caring for those in the final period of their lives.The general question of which treatments are optional or obligatory is well presented with much attention given to the debate over the provision of artificial nutrition and hydration to those in the so-called persistent vegetative state (PVS).The position outlined by the authors (p. 197) led to a clarification by the National Catholic Bioethics Center of their own position (see http://www.ncbcenter.org/07-10-13-HE5.asp).More recently, the prolonged debate over related matters also led to a statement from the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (see http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20070801_risposte-usa_en.html).
Part Three addresses topics of a different nature.Increasingly, basic health care is seen as an undeniable human right.Consequently, society must align policies in such a way as to include its provision in efforts to promote social justice. This field is an area of intense debate and scrutiny even in the wealthiest countries of the world.Many theories exist as to the most favorable means of implementing such policies and the authors add their recommendations while delineating also the obligations incumbent upon medical professionals and citizens to make their own contribution.In conclusion, the book pinpoints the spiritual/pastoral care of patients as the linchpin of a holistic ethical approach to health care.
Finally, it can be said safely that this is among the best books on Catholic Bioethics available in English.Faith and reason find a marvelous blend within its pages.Each chapter begins with an overview and ends with a conclusion.One could learn much just by reading those brief paragraphs.One could hope for a more careful proofreading if there is yet another revised edition.
... Read more

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The Word of God is relevant, indeed vital, for teens today. A Lamp for My Feet and a Light for My Path draws teens into the Scriptures, helping them understand God s message and apply it in their daily lives. Author Nancy Humes doesn t just tell teens what the Scriptures hold for them, she leads them in discovering it for themselves. Beginning with a basic understanding of prayer and a relationship with God, A Lamp for My Feet goes on to deal with the moral and personal questions that teens face today. In twenty lessons, each containing three sectionsRead, Reflect,andRespondthis book shows teens that the Word of God truly remains a lamp for their feet and a light for their path. ... Read more

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Kessinger Publishing is the place to find hundreds of thousands of rare and hard-to-find books with something of interest for everyone! ... Read more

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With more than 4,000 entries and 150 line drawings, this revised and updated edition defines new terms and reassesses past definitions with comprehensiveness and sensitivity to recent changes in the Catholic church.

Customer Reviews (4)

Essential reference for Catholic Concepts
I would recommend this book to anybody who desires a reference book covering Catholic subjects.It is a superb companion to the Catholic Study Bible and/or the Catholic Catechism.The book clearly and thoroughly defines pertinent terms and concepts.

Essential for the Christian Library
This encyclopedia is a wonderful source for reference material andprovides itself as a valuable study aid aswell.For Catholics andnon-Catholics alike the contents of this encyclopedia help to solve manyquestions about the faith.Everything in this encyclopedia is relevant tothe Catechism and the Holy Scriptures.With this book you will be askingless questions and finding many answers.

Third most must-have book for any Catholic
This is the third most must-have book (Behind the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church)for any Catholic or person curious about Catholicism in general. It has the Imprimatur and the Nihl Obstat, the official"go-ahead" of the Catholic Church for books; in other words,nothing in this book misrepresents any of the official teachings or goesagainst matters of faith and morals.This book is a wonderful resource ofknowledge that augments the Catechism in a way that is easy to understand. The Catechism lays down the blueprint of what Catholics believe, this bookhelps flesh it out. It explains in more detail things put forth by theCatechism.I use it all the time in my research and it has proven to beinvaluable.

... a MUST for all Catholic homes and churches!
I work at a Catholic Church - and I am constantly referring to Robert andVirginia Broderick's book for answers to questions that often baffle me. Not once have I had to turn a visitor or caller away.This is one of thebest Catholic encyclopiedias around - written with lay-people in mind.Itis easy to understand, and, literally, warms the hearts of the readers. There are 150 pen-and-ink (liturgical) drawings by Virginia Broderick - oneof the greatest Catholic artists alive today - illustrating many of theentries her late husband explains.The drawings alone are worth much morethan you'll be paying for the encyclopedia.My suggestion is to buy morethan one copy --- and pass the extra one around.It will surely edify andentertain anyone who loves the Catholic Church.Once I pick the book up,Ifind it VERY difficult to put it back down! I especially love studyingVirginia's art.She's a contemporary genius!(Dan Paulos, artist) ... Read more

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Written by the Director of the Lesbian and Gay Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and with a foreword by Most Reverend Stephen E. Blaire, Bishop of Stockton, California, this new book presents a compassionate explanation of official Church teaching on homosexuality. Using the letter from the North American Bishops, the book presents new, positive thoughts on the issue and the sound pastoral practices that arise from them. Above all, the book emphasizes the Church's position that personhood is more than one's sexual orientation and that God and grace are found in every person's story--without exception.The author is the leading Catholic in this ministry in the country. With clarity, simplicity, and humaneness, he explains basic definitions of homosexuality, addresses the issue of nurture vs. nature, and looks at what both Church and Scripture say. He provides warmth, hope, and encouragement while at the same time adhering strictly to Church teaching.Homosexuality is today's hottest topic in practical ministry, yet most people are reluctant to approach it. Many do not know what the Church actually says about it and believe the subject is one of knee-jerk black or white. This enlightening book is must reading for anyone affected by the issue: Catholic gays and lesbians, their families and friends, their pastors and parish staff members. It also belongs on the bookshelf of every diocesan office, all Catholic educators, AIDS/HIV lay ministers, family counselors, Catholic guidance counselors, and Catholic chaplains. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The most genuinely pastoral thing that I have read
"With Listening Hearts" is written by a priest who "gets it." He is orthodox and honest about the fact that homosexual persons, who cannot marry, are morally obligated to remain single/celibate--and hallelujah, he also understands and cares about real live typical gay people well enough to respond with tremendous sensitivity to their real concerns.

There is another popular Catholic book on homosexuality, called "Beyond Gay" which is written by (as he himself says) a basically heterosexual man who was in a same-sex relationship for a number of years, then grew spiritually, came to his senses, and later got married. That book was loaned to me by one of my priests after I mentioned this issue (I am a straight single person who has had good gay, lesbian and transgender friends), and I thought it was a well written account of an unusual case. I didn't think it delved very deeply, though, into the pastoral situation of most gay people who (as good Catholics) must accept and live a celibate and chaste life, and I felt there was a bit of chutzpah in this now happily married man preaching so boldly to those gay people who will never be able to marry. I had a hard time imagining that they would listen to him.

"With Listening Hearts" is equally faithful to Catholic doctrine, but truly and compassionately in tune with "real," permanently non-heterosexual gay people; I think Fr. Liuzzi is truly an apostle, warmly human, truly on the side of the gay people he ministers to, and genuinely pastoral. His approach is one that listens, invites, reassures, and guides rather than condemns. The book also struck me as a wonderful example of apostolate that implicitly proceeds from contemplation and a contemplative attitude, which is the truest and most effective apostolate. I don't remember the book talking about that, but it's something that matters so much, because it is truly bringing Christ and His love and healing into places of brokenness. May God continue to bless Fr. Liuzzi's ministry, and give gay and lesbian Catholics the grace to remain faithful to the Church.

Gay Catholics--even if you don't agree with the Church (in all sincerity I think you must be God's special favorites, or he would not put you through so much) you would probably still find some hope and peace in this book, and would do good by putting a copy of this compassionate book in your pastor's hands! Pastors, parents, friends--this is a book to show how to BOTH be faithful to the teachings of the Church AND truly, humanly, lovingly relate to gays and lesbians! "With Listening Hearts" is a great title for it.

An important read for ministers
This is a very poignant and informative book for anyone in ministry (especially in the Catholic Church).Fr. Liuzzi is compassionate and creative in his approach, but clear and firm about the Catholic Church's position and limits.I don't agree with the church, but I certainly understand it better now.

Wonderful-- balanced, sensitive, and orthodox
This is a wonderful book for anyone who has a friend or family member struggling with the reality of a homosexual orientation within the context of a Catholic spirituality and identity.It is very readable--you don't have to speak "vaticanese" to understand the theology explained.It is practical, it is affirming, and it gives insights into the stories of real people and their experiences.Books like this give me great hope. ... Read more

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Anyone interested in sharing the gospel with Catholicfriends or understanding where members of that denomination stand on importantpoints of theology will appreciate this thorough yet easy–to–use reference.Using the simple, step–by–step format applauded by readers in Rhodes’ previousbooks, Reasoning from the Scriptures with Catholics covers many theological issues thatdivide Protestants and Catholics, including¼

• purgatory and indulgences
• the reverence of Mary, mother of Jesus
• papal infallibility
• Catholic traditions
• and much more

Each chapter examines a single Catholic belief or practiceas taught in the Catholic Catechism and other major Catholic sources, providesbiblical responses, and offers questions to help Catholics examine theirchurch’s readings. Pastors, teachers, and lay leaders will find this insightfulguide a must–have tool for sharing the good news of salvation by faith alonewith Catholic friends and family members.

Customer Reviews (30)

not very helpful for sharing the Good News with Catholics
This book is part of series of "how to witness" books by Ron Rhodes. I am not a fan of this kind of books, as I believe that the help of the Holy Spirit is sufficient when witnessing, but I have to say that the installments on Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons are worth reading. In my opinion, it is not the case with this work on Catholicism.
The book uses a question and answer format, presenting all the peculiar doctrines of the Catholic Church that did not originate from the Scriptures and give biblical answers to prove them wrong.
I have quite a vast knowledge of Catholicism as I was an active member of the church for 23 years, before converting to biblical Christianity, and I think that the average Catholic will not be bothered too much by most of these questions.
A few of the questions are very clever and might prove useful when dialoguing with your Catholic friends, but I believe that Catholicism is such a vast topic, and Catholics are so diverse around the world, that it requires a much more serious and deeper study to effectively share the Good News with them.
REMEMBER, THESE KIND OF BOOKS MIGHT BE HELPFUL TO GATHER INFORMATION, BUT WHEN IT COMES TO WITNESSING, THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL BE YOUR GUIDE. JESUS WILL GIVE YOU WORDS AND WISDOM IF YOU ASK HIM.

Pushes Buttons with Scriptural Accuracy
I love this book, and am about to get a kindle copy so I can have it on the go.Listen, I'm not sure why you are looking into this book.If you are a Roman Catholic, or someone who's just interested in the differences between Roman Catholicism and Christianity, this is a good place to start.Roman Catholics have something in common with Mormons, in that most when asked if they are Christian, will likely affirm that they are, but will tell you first and foremost that they are Catholic etc, but will be insulted if you don't include them in the Christian category.What both groups have in common, is that they claim to be the only true Church, and consequently if you are not one of them, you're not a true Christian.I don't have a problem with making the claim that some truths are exclusively true, and that when it comes to going to Heaven, Christ explicitly stated that the way is narrow and there are few that go on it.Please, try to objectively look at the bulk of the negative reviews here; keeping what I said above in mind, why are they rating the book so poorly?Is it not because they don't like being told that Roman Catholicism as taught by Rome, is not Christian?These people are holding a double standard in that they very well know their leadership dogmatically declares, and has done so for centuries, that Rome is the one true church, and consequently, those of us who don't embrace the "mother church" are not true Christians.My point being is that I hope you, potential reader, are coming to this with a desire to know God as He is, and to submit to who He is in truth, no matter how far outside of your comfort zone that takes you.Don't read this book if you can't handle your beliefs to be held under the scrutiny of the infallible Word of God.Do read this book if you really want to know whether Roman Catholicism is what it claims to be; and if not, be willing to count all as loss, for the sake of knowing the Risen Savior.

This book is lacking in intellectual integrity
I was given this book by a friend of mine who knew I was researching Roman Catholic teaching and my friend feels as though the teachings of the Catholic Church are not that of Christ or the early church.After reading the second page of the book (page 12 of the actual book) the actual teachings of the Catholic Church are gravely misrepresented.

The book portrays the practice of celibacy of the priesthood and praying the rosary as Catholic doctrines.However these are not doctrines, they are customs, discplines, or devotions, none of which are required for Catholics to believe and certainly not apart of what the Catholic Church calls the deposit of faith; what Christ and the Holy Spirit gave to the Apostles.

It is one thing to disagree with Catholic teaching.It is an entirely different matter to blatantly misrepresent the teaching of that church in an attempt to disprove it.Why is it that the author needs to misrepresent the teachings of the Catholic Church in order to attempt to refute them?

Christians Wake Up!
The book, contrary to some of the criticisms in a fewof these reviews, is actually quite good. Though it may be true that there's not much "new" in the debates presented, it serves as a well organized reminder to those who have gotten lazy or complacent about knowing and, as a result, sharing the scripture with Catholics.Some of those applauded above, Scott Hahn (especially) as well as Kreeft, should not be considered "previously great" Protestant theologians or speakers. Frankly, and honestly, as one who pays considerable attention, I had never heard of them until they became Catholic!They have become the "poster children" of Catholicism's budding and growing "Hey look; a Protestant leader turned Catholic" campaign. To their negative credit, they (again, especially Hahn) are doing some appreciable damage to a Biblically accurate Christianity (that would expose much of Catholicism's error). As is too often the case, Christians who rightly regard the Bible as their sole authority, need to wake up and get serious about knowing the scriptures well; not just their true origins but what they truly say. If they do, the Hahns and Kreefts of the world will pose little problem; if they don't, the flowery, passionate but erroneous talk (which is Scott Hahn's forte) will easily whisk lazy Bible students away into a mess of twisted views and false theology. Buy this book to recognize the problem, and then get serious; dust off your Bible, study, and go help eliminate the problem.

The usual Anti-Catholic diatribe
I remember Ron Rhodes on the Bible Answer Man radio show. He's the one that got me exploring the Catholic faith. His reasoning from the scriptures should really be reasoning with other evangelicals about Catholicism. My only regret is that it is too light of a book to use as a door stop. ... Read more

Product Description
Between 1990 and 1994, Colm Toibin made a series of trips through Catholic Europe, and then set down his impressions in this beautifully written book. His journey led him into close contact with people from all walks of life, from priests to politicians, from the intellectually open to the spiritually bigoted. Filled with personal detail set within its historical context, this is Toibin at his finest and most insightful. 'Colm Toibin writes beautifully in a spare style that allows for plain description, high humour and effects that are carefully toned. He is at once an honest, uncertain pilgrim with a press card and a sense of devilment, and a son on an Oedipal trail' - "Irish Times". 'A mixture of autobiography, travelogue and journalism which tantalizes the reader with what it withholds as much as it entertains and instructs with what it describes ..."The Sign of the Cross", like all good writing, is a treat' - "Independent on Sunday". 'This book describing Colm Toibin's journey is written with the novelist's familiar clarity and wisdom.It is as much a record of the European Catholic psyche in different political climates as it is an introspective pilgrimage to see what stuff Toibin's own faith is made of' - "Daily Telegraph". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Uninsightful and Mocking of Spirituality
I wonder what possessed the author to bother at all with this subject? The writer scorns believers and practices at every shrine he visits - never attempting to understand the significance of the spirituality at each distinctive site. For him, its all the same, whether Spain or France or Poland. Each time the faintest hint of an insightful question, a yearn to probe deeper starts to appear, he dismisses it and announces that he is off to a pub for yet more beer. We must witness him downing caseloads of suds in this short book. Maybe this is the real problem here. Regretfully, he fits the Irish stereotype with his booze a little too much. For him, the answer to every question is yet more booze.
I was hoping to learn whether he found differences among believers or types of spirituality among the countries and peoples he visited. He labels himself as an outsider and detached, and rudely mocks superficial details at each sacred site. He never gets beyond the surface in noticing details or in understandingwhat drives people to perform these pilgrimages, what significance the site holds in a culture or political situation, what meaning do the individuals find or hope to find at each place. Also, there is no examination of the communal aspect of the pilgrimages occurring en masse, with many thousands of people engaged in these practices at the same time.
Do not be fooled. I am a left leaning liberal, and thought that this book would contain at least a bit a substance. In the end, I felt ripped off as a consumer for its lack of serious examination or discussion of the subject. I can imagine those prone to more religiosity being seriously offended by this tome.
The writing itself is trite, the commentary sophmoric. Author, get thee to an AA meeting, then take up your pen !!!!!

Fascinating
This was an amazing book.Full of interesting facts and details.It made me want to visit...well nearly all of the places described by the author.If you are interested in Catholicism or European culture and politics, Iwould strongly urge you to read this book.

A good read, and thought-provoking too
This is a great book to read while traveling (it just got me through a trip home on a weekend when winter storms had disrupted airline schedules throughout the entire U.S.!).The chapters are short and fairlyself-contained, but each is well-written and engrossing.There's a lot ofvariety -- from fairly straightforward travelogues such as the accounts ofthe author's visits to Rome, to highly personal essays on his family andhis belated coming to grips with his father's early death.And he's theonly ex-Catholic author I've read who's accurately described that odd,characteristic combination of lack of belief in the Church's tenets withlingering reverence for all things Catholic:I'm a 'collapsed Catholic'myself, and I think he got it down exactly right.(Nostalgia for one'schildhood is part of it, but it's certainly not ALL of it!)Hisdiscussions of Catholicism and the English are telling, and he makes somepoints about the Irish Catholic treatment of Protestants that most of us,raised as we are with a black-and-white (or, in this instance,orange-and-green!) view of the issue, have never considered.There's a lothere to think about as well as be entertained by, and I recommend the bookwithout reservation.

Makes you want to follow the author's footsteps
Like all the best travel writing, The Sign of the Cross makes you want to visit the places Colm Toibin visits.He travels to out-of-the-way spots throughout Europe, usually during religious holidays.Toibin interacts with both government officials and ordinary people and evokes a feeling for the churches and festivals in a way that makes you wish you were tagging along with him.The book is a combination of travelogue, history, sociology, and personal reminiscence.Toibin is funny and a great prose stylist.You don't have to be religious to appreciate his story. ... Read more