Benedict XVI: His Life and Thought (2018)
Elio Guerriero
Elio Guerriero’s 706-page book, Benedict XVI: His Life and Thought, is more than just an engaging biography. It offers a thorough exploration of Pope Benedict XVI’s life and intellectual legacy, providing a fresh perspective on one of the most significant Catholic thinkers of our time. As memories of Benedict remain vivid, the book illuminates his impact on the Catholic Church in today’s world.
Guerriero presents Benedict XVI as “an honest man, in love with Bavaria and books, who reluctantly left his professorial chair for an Episcopal see.” This characterization captures the essence of Joseph Ratzinger, a scholar at heart who accepted the papacy out of obedience. Upon his election as Pope, he viewed the office as having a “martyrological structure,” requiring a deep patience and ability to endure suffering, a reality he personally confronted throughout his papacy.
Pope Francis, in his foreword, expresses profound gratitude for Benedict’s theological depth and balance, highlighting the spiritual connection they shared, particularly during the early years of Francis’ pontificate. Francis also underscores how Ratzinger’s life and work were deeply aligned with the mission of the Church and the ministry of Peter—proclaiming God’s merciful love to the world.
Growing up in Bavaria during the dark years of Nazism, Ratzinger and his family endured the horrors of World War II. His passion for learning and music, as well as his calling to the priesthood, only grew stronger during this period. He went on to serve as a theologian, prolific author, Archbishop of Munich, Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), Pope, and finally, Pope Emeritus. The book also clarifies many misinterpretations surrounding his resignation, which was sensationalized at the time.
Signs of Life: 40 Catholic Customs and Their Biblical Roots (2009)
Scott Hahn
Scott Hahn, a renowned Catholic apologist and theologian, presents Signs of Life, a book that explores 40 Catholic customs and their biblical foundations. As the founder of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology and professor at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Hahn uses his expertise to guide readers through these Catholic practices, divided into nine sections with 40 chapters.
Hahn begins with a personal anecdote about how God led him through a career crisis shortly before his conversion to Catholicism. Through this lens, he discovered the beauty of Catholic devotions often dismissed by intellectuals. His purpose in writing is to celebrate the richness of Catholic practices and explain their biblical roots, addressing both Catholics and non-Catholics who question these traditions. Grounded in the mystagogic tradition of the Church, Hahn invites believers to glimpse divine mysteries through these signs.
The book covers topics like holy water, the Mass, infant baptism, the intercession of saints, indulgences, and the Rosary. Hahn explains the biblical and historical roots of these practices, while addressing common objections from non-Catholics, particularly evangelicals. Each chapter ends with a reflection titled “Ponder in Your Heart,” inspired by Mary’s contemplation of divine events (Luke 2:19).
Hahn also highlights the significance of the number 40, reflecting its biblical importance in both the Old and New Testaments. His goal is to deepen readers’ faith by incorporating these devotions into daily prayer, emphasizing that they are part of the pilgrim’s journey toward God. The book stands as a testament to Hahn’s erudition and commitment to bringing Catholic tradition into everyday life.
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