The Word In and Out of Season: Homilies for Preachers, Reflections for Seekers Paperback (2000)
-William J. Bausch
“The Word In and Out of Season” is a book of 60 homilies by Rev. William J. Bausch, a former parish priest of the diocese of Trenton, New Jersey. The homilies are organized according to the liturgical seasons of the Church, covering Advent and Christmas, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost, as well as other feasts and celebrations. There are also sections on parables and lessons from the Scriptures. The book is aimed at two audiences: preachers looking for inspiration or guidance, and the general public seeking spiritual sustenance through the liturgical year. The title is derived from Proverbs, which states, “A word spoken in due season, how good it is!” Bausch believes that the mysteries of Redemption take on the coloring of the seasons, and the saving Word must be expounded and proclaimed accordingly. The structure of the book reflects this idea, moving from season to season, feast to feast, and parable to lesson. At the start of each homily, the relevant scripture text is cited. Bausch’s homilies often highlight deep ideas within the Biblical passages that may be missed due to familiarity. He illustrates his points with historical details, personal anecdotes, and contemporary references, making the homilies engaging and relevant. The homilies are also opportunities for Bausch to address contemporary life situations, concerns, and issues. Although the examples are often drawn from an American cultural environment, they are relevant to a global audience and invite deep reflection. Overall, “The Word In and Out of Season” is a rich collection of homilies that guide readers through the liturgical year while offering insights into the deeper meanings of the Biblical texts. Bausch’s approach is accessible, engaging, and thought-provoking, making the book a valuable resource for preachers and laypeople alike.
Conversion: The Spiritual Journey of a Twentieth Century Pilgrim
Malcolm Muggeridge (2005)
“Conversion: The Spiritual Journey of a Twentieth Century Pilgrim” is the fascinating account of Malcolm Muggeridge’s journey from agnostic liberal to Catholic convert. Muggeridge was a highly respected journalist and author, known for his wit, humor, and incisive intellect. He worked in India and Egypt, reported for leading British newspapers, served in British Intelligence during World War II, and interviewed famous personalities across the globe. His encounter with Mother Theresa and Alexander Solzhenitsyn played a significant role in his conversion. Muggeridge grew increasingly critical of the excesses and empty ideals of the cultural, political, and social changes of the 20th century. Muggeridge’s account of his spiritual journey is reminiscent of St. Augustine’s Confessions. Like Bunyan’s Pilgrim, he fell into the Slough of Despond, locked up in Doubting Castle, and terrified at passing through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. He confessed that he had always been aware of another dimension beyond the material world and that earthly life could not be the end. This awareness conflicted with his aspirations for material success and fame. Muggeridge describes his conversion as a sense of homecoming, of picking up the threads of a lost life. He likens it to falling in love, with no standard procedure or fixed time. Muggeridge’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and the profound impact that encounters with holy people can have on our lives. Muggeridge’s writing is a mix of humor, satire, and profound insight, and his journey to faith is a testament to the transformative power of grace. This book is an excellent read for anyone interested in spiritual journeys, the power of encounters with holy people, and the limitations of secular worldviews.
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