Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of Faith
Robert Barron (2014)
This eminently readable book by Bishop Robert Barron is unsurprisingly a best seller now. It was born out of the script he wrote for a documentary film series that he had done under the same title and had been well received around the world. The book is directed at the general reader both in and outside of the Catholic Church or even outside the Christian fold. Arranged into ten chapters with a short coda in the end, Barron’s book begins with the question that anyone unacquainted with the church might ask: “What is the Catholic thing? What makes it distinctive among all of the competing philosophies, ideologies and religions of the world?” The book delves into the Incarnation, which sets Christianity apart, and showcases the rich history and cultural contributions of the Church through stories, biographies, images, and artistic expressions. Barron addresses theological arguments, differences among churches, and critiques from atheists and secular thinkers. In the words of the author, part of the genius of the Catholic tradition is that it never throws anything out! There is something for everyone in its wide space. His approach to the vast subject is celebratory, simple and colloquial, refreshing and appealing to a wide audience. As the book draws to a close, Barron shares a poignant quote from an elderly bishop discussing the agenda for Vatican Council II: “It’s all about God.” This statement encapsulates the underlying theme of the entire journey through Catholicism presented in the book. It reminds readers that, amidst the vast array of topics covered, the heart of the Catholic faith lies in a profound relationship with the divine. Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of Faith is a highly readable and widely acclaimed book that offers an immersive experience of the Catholic tradition.
Mary Today: Fundamental Issues and New Directions in Mariology
Joy Kaipan S D B(Ed)
This book is a collaborative effort by a group of authors focused on the subject of Mariology. It serves as a Festschrift honoring Dr. Thomas Panakezham SDB, Professor of Mariology at Kristu Jyoti College in Bangalore, on the occasion of his 80th birthday and the twin jubilee of his Diamond Jubilee of Religious Profession and Golden Jubilee of Ordination to the Priesthood. Dr. Panakezham, a scholar and passionate devotee of the Blessed Virgin Mary, finds special relevance in this book, as Mariology is his favorite subject. The book delves into the veneration of the Holy Virgin and Marian devotion, practices shared by the Orthodox and Catholic churches, yet remaining controversial among Protestant communities. The 16 chapters preceding the concluding chapter, which reminisces on Dr. Panakezham’s journey, cover various aspects of Mariology, encompassing its historical and theological dimensions. The opening chapter provides an overview of the book, discussing Mary in the Gospels, with a particular focus on the synoptic Gospels. Subsequent sections comprehensively explore different aspects of Mary based on the accounts found in the first three Gospels. Another chapter explores the Magnificat and its implications for faith, emphasizing the theme of hope. Addressing a common question raised by theologically uninitiated Christians and casual readers of the New Testament, the fourth chapter examines why Jesus addresses Mary as “Woman” in two instances in John’s Gospel and reveals the unique status afforded to the Mother of God, drawing connections to Pontius Pilate’s statement, “Behold the Man” (Jn 19:5). The book covers a wide range of topics, including Mary’s relationship with the Church, her presence in the liturgy of both Eastern and Western churches, Marian dogmas, her connection to priesthood, her role in fostering holiness among the faithful, and her portrayal as a model of Christian discipleship and full humanity. The book also explores popular Marian devotions, the role of Mary in catechesis, her significance within the Salesian congregation, and her representation as a model for youth. With its informative and engaging content, the book caters to both serious scholars and laypeople alike. It offers valuable insights into the study of Mariology while keeping readers intrigued by its diverse perspectives and profound exploration of the subject matter. For both the serious scholar and the layperson, the book is both informative and interesting.
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