Joseph Ratzinger’s / Pope Benedict XVI’s list of accomplishments is unparalleled in modern times—in both theological and academic terms. He held prestigious teaching positions in Europe’s finest universities. He played a pivotal role in the deliberations of Vatican II and the formulation of its teachings. His theological publications number above fifteen hundred. And he served the Catholic Church as its Pontiff for eight years. In O Lord, I Seek Your Countenance, Fr. Emery de Gaál contends that Ratzinger/ Benedict is reminiscent of a Church Father in his theological virtuosity. But beyond his brilliant intellect, Benedict’s deep Christ-centered spirituality is what gives life and verve to his academic pursuits. Through essays that explore Benedict’s rich and varied theological thought and achievements, from the 1950s through his Jesus of Nazareth trilogy, de Gaál apprehends Ratzinger as a theologian with philosophical sensitivity whose insights have shaped and will continue to shape the course of Catholic theology for years to come.
Joseph Ratzinger’s / Pope Benedict XVI’s list of accomplishments is unparalleled in modern times—in both theological and academic terms. He held prestigious teaching positions in Europe’s finest universities. He played a pivotal role in the deliberations of Vatican II and the formulation of its teachings. His theological publications number above fifteen hundred. And he served the Catholic Church as its Pontiff for eight years. In O Lord, I Seek Your Countenance, Fr. Emery de Gaál contends that Ratzinger/ Benedict is reminiscent of a Church Father in his theological virtuosity. But beyond his brilliant intellect, Benedict’s deep Christ-centered spirituality is what gives life and verve to his academic pursuits. Through essays that explore Benedict’s rich and varied theological thought and achievements, from the 1950s through his Jesus of Nazareth trilogy, de Gaál apprehends Ratzinger as a theologian with philosophical sensitivity whose insights have shaped and will continue to shape the course of Catholic theology for years to come.
The testimony and teachings of Joseph Ratzinger on the act of faith are particularly urgent for the Church today. Doctrinal confusion and other signs of crisis experienced by believers find their root in a crisis of faith. Understanding what it means to believe is more than an academic exercise; rather, it is a necessary step for authentic renewal in the Church. In What Does it Mean to Believe?, Fr. Daniel Cardó outlines the different insights of Joseph Ratzinger on the act of faith—understood as a personal, integral, and ecclesial act. Cardó provides an organic view of the rich contribution made by the Pope Emeritus in his many theological works. What Does it Mean to Believe? is also an invitation to appreciate the mind and the faith of one of the greatest theologians of our time.
“The Church today demands a profound renewal of celibate priesthood and the fatherhood to which it is ordered.” Priestly celibacy, some say, is an outdated relic from another age. Others see it as a lonely way of life. But as Fr. Carter Griffin argues in Why Celibacy?: Reclaiming the Fatherhood of the Priest, the ancient practice of celibacy, when lived well, helps a priest exercise his spiritual fatherhood joyfully and fruitfully. Along the way, Griffin explores: the question of optional celibacy some pitfalls of celibate paternity the selection and formation of candidates for celibate priesthood why biological fathers are also called to spiritual fatherhood the powerful impact of celibacy on the Church and the wider culture In a critical moment for the Catholic priesthood, Fr. Griffin brings light and hope with a new perspective on the Church’s perennial wisdom on celibacy.
Despite signs in recent decades of a crisis in the Church, a countercurrent of intense interest in prayer and a close relationship with God is clearly at work today. A deeper esteem for contemplation has accompanied this turning to prayer, and many people desire spiritual direction and guidance. Written by a recognized expert on contemplative prayer, this book concentrates on the interior hardships experienced by souls who give themselves to God wholeheartedly. More than a summary of the symptoms of interior trial, these poignant observations are the fruit of the author's many years in retreat work. Personal experience, not simply knowledge of the spiritual tradition, inform his concise, carefully crafted comments. Throughout the book, the writing invites the reader to ponder the subject of spiritual darkness, perplexity, and other struggles in the spiritual life always in the light of the loving God, who draws souls into greater surrender to himself.
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