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Book SynopsisThe bestselling follow-up to Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist. Includes a reader''s guide and an excerpt from Pitre''s The Case for Jesus. In Jesus the Bridegroom, Brant Pitre once again taps into the wells of Jewish Scripture and tradition, and unlocks the secrets of what is arguably the most well-known symbol of the Christian faith: the cross of Christ. In this thrilling exploration, Pitre shows how the suffering and death of Jesus was far more than a tragic Roman execution. Instead, the Passion of Christ was the fulfillment of ancient Jewish prophecies of a wedding, when the God of the universe would wed himself to humankind in an everlasting nuptial covenant.   To be sure, most Christians are familiar with the apostle Paul’s teaching that Christ is the ‘Bridegroom’ and the Church is the ‘Bride’. But what does this really mean? And what would ever possess Paul to compare the

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Book SynopsisA poignant and powerful spiritual memoir about how the lives of the saints changed the life of a modern woman.In My Sisters the Saints, author Colleen Carroll Campbell blends her personal narrative of spiritual seeking, trials, stumbles, and breakthroughs with the stories of six women saints who profoundly changed her life: Teresa of Avila, Therese of Lisieux, Faustina of Poland, Edith Stein of Germany, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, and Mary of Nazareth. Drawing upon the rich writings and examples of these extraordinary women, the author reveals Christianity''s liberating power for women and the relevance of the saints to the lives of contemporary Christians.

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Book SynopsisA provocative study in contemporary sociology and the first full-scale account of Roman Catholic fundamentalism, The Smoke of Satan offers new insight into the Catholic Church and explores the nature of religion in society.Trade ReviewCuneo has given us a witty, even hilarious, and sometimes frightening study of the inner workings, the theological convictions, and the major gripes of three different 'factions' of the Catholic right... Sparkling with irony, he provides his readers with a clear picture of the deep divisions occurring in the right-wing of the Church. America Cuneo uses the Second Vatican Council and the seismic shift it unleashed as a framework for vivid profiles of the Church's unnoticed players-Catholic fundamentalists. His well-researched, eye-opening book shows them to be a fascinating and, at times, bizarre and disturbing subgroup, whom even faithful Catholics would have a hard time embracing. With crisp and concise writing, Cuneo uses colorful anecdotes to shine a light on a mostly unknown part of the church. -- Diego Ribadeneira Boston Globe Here are feverish critics who regard the Catholic bishops as milquetoasts on sexual ethics and abortion. Here are poor souls whose distress over changes in traditional doctrine and liturgy has flowered into true night gardens of conspiracy theory... Cuneo is a sympathetic reporter... but he also reports nuttiness as nuttiness. -- Peter Steinfels New York Times Book Review A winning ethnography. Kirkus Reviews The Smoke of Satan dispels the haze around a world that is unfamiliar to many. Cuneo's book is well worth the time. Fort Worth Star-Telegram The Smoke of Satan is a fascinating look into a series of subcultures within and adjacent to Roman Catholicism-subcultures which are probably unfamiliar to most sociologists and researchers of religion... Cuneo does an excellent job of distinguishing the fundamental differences that separate the world views of each of these groups, as well as the internal factions into which each is fragmented. Sociology of Religion Cuneo is admirably thorough in his investigation of this [Catholic] netherworld. -- Garry Wills New York Review of Books Readers caught by the title of Michael Cuneo's new study of traditional-minded Catholics will not be disappointed. Juicy exposes of strange religious compounds reminiscent of Waco and scholarly inquiries into the cult mentality of modern separatists fill six well-researched chapters... Lurid details of the most bizarre beliefs are recounted, to Cuneo's credit, without sarcasm. Crisis A Fellini-like religious landscape. Trouw Cuneo provides a fascinating glimpse not only into these movements and the attraction they hold for a growing number of Catholics, but also into the appeal that apocalyptic thinking can have for the marginalized and disenfranchised. Millennial Stew Everett Hughes remarked forty years ago that everything, sociologically speaking, has happened in and to Catholicism. Since the Second Vatican Council, it has happened again. Michael Cuneo leaves no doubt about that. -- Andrew Greeley Contemporary Sociology

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling author of The Holy Longing provides an inspiring message of hope and perseverance for all of us struggling with our faith in tumultuous times   The last few decades have rapidly birthed a modern world that would have been unrecognizable fifty years ago. As long-held beliefs on love, faith, and God are challenged by the aggregate of changes that have overhauled our world, many of us are left feeling confused and uncertain while old norms are challenged and redefined at breakneck speed.In Wrestling with God, Ronald Rolheiser offers a steady and inspiring voice to help us avow and understand our faith in a world where nothing seems solid or permanent. Drawing from his own life experience, as well as a storehouse of literary, psychological, and theological insights, the beloved author of Sacred Fire examines the fears and doubts that challenge us. It is in these struggles to find meaning, that Rolheiser lays out a path for faith in a world struggling to find faith, but perhaps more important, he helps us find our own rhythm within which to walk that path.

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Book SynopsisThe goal of the Symposium Toward Healing and Renewal which took place at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome from 6-9 February 2012, was to help bishops, religious superiors, and others in positions of special responsibility to make an honest examination of conscience, as requested by the Pope.

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Book SynopsisEssays on the Three Biblical Christmas Stories - Matthew 2 and Luke 2

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Book SynopsisSecond Revised Edition

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Book SynopsisSecond Revised Edition

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Book SynopsisThose who preach the Word, those who proclaim it from a lectern and those who hear it should all find something in this collection of relections to inspire them to greater appreciation of the mystery of God's Word. The reflections are developed around eight themes.

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Book SynopsisThe collection of Masses of the Blessed Virgin Mary offers more than 135 Scripture passages through which the faithful might deepen their devotion to Mary. While some texts are very familiar, others are not as well known to contemporary Catholics.Trade ReviewHere is a beautiful work that reflects on each of the 135 biblical passages in the Lectionary that relate to Mary. Servite teacher, pastor, and chaplain David Brown performs a labor of love in putting together this helpful resource. The Bible TodayMasses in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary have traditionally held a special place in the Catholic liturgy. David Brown brings new insights into the scriptural texts for these feasts and has provided pointed reflections about their contemporary significance. A rich resource for enhanced liturgical participation as well as spiritual reflection. John T. Pawlikowski, OSM, Professor of Social Ethics, Catholic Theological Union, ChicagoFor those preachers who find it difficult to `come up with anything new' on feast days of Mary or for special occasions honoring the Blessed Mother, this book is designed to be a friendly and handy companion. Pastoral Liturgy

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Book SynopsisExploring Dei VerbumTrade Review“Vatican Council II’s Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation was a life-changer for the twentieth-century church. In this splendid little volume, The Word of God at Vatican II: Exploring Dei Verbum, Fr. Ron Witherup tells us how it came about, what it said, and some of what happened as a result. It’s a must-read for every religious educator in the English-speaking world.” Raymond F. Collins Department of Religious Studies Brown University“Ron Witherup’s book on Dei Verbum, Vatican II’s dogmatic constitution on divine revelation, is a gem. He provides, in effect, a clear and accessible ‘exegesis’ of a document whose import and impact continue fifty years later. In addition, Fr. Witherup sets Dei Verbum in its historical context and offers practical suggestions for its ongoing appropriation. I highly recommend this book, especially for bible study groups and parish education classes.” Thomas D. Stegman, SJ Associate Professor of New Testament Boston College School of Theology & Ministry“Vatican II’s declaration Dei Verbum has proven to one of the most important and lasting actions of the Council, injecting new life and vigor into the biblical renewal of the Catholic Church. Ronald Witherup, SS, is, as he notes, a ‘product’ of this renewal—becoming a noted Catholic voice in the interpretation of the Scriptures. His dedication and skill are on display here as he provides an in-depth but very accessible commentary on the Council’s statement and lays out its meaning for the life of the Church today.” Donald Senior, CP, President Emeritus and Professor of New Testament at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago“In order to deepen both our relationship to Scripture, and to God, we must understand what we read and pray with. As a writer and speaker, I often refer to Dei Verbum, frequently urging others to study this essential document as a way of deepening their understanding of Sacred Scripture. In this treasure of a book, Ronald Witherup, SS, offers those who are familiar with Dei Verbum, as well as those who are just beginning, new and important insights into the Word of God.” Fran Rossi Szpylczyn is a Catholic writer, and lay minister in Albany, NY. Her work can be accessed at There Will Be Bread“This book is a ‘must’ for understanding the refined position of the Catholic church on sacred Scripture as proclaimed by Vatican II. Authored by a foremost biblical scholar, this book presents keen insights into the history of debates and discussions leading to the final approved text. Fr. Witherup’s commentary on each chapter of Dei Verbum offers an outstanding analysis of Divine Revelation, the relationship between Scripture and tradition, the transmission of Revelation and related questions. With its helpful charts and glossary, this book is a welcomed resource that I cannot praise enough.” Most Revered Donald W. Trautman Bishop Emeritus of Erie“A book for all seasons—but especially today! As our commitment to hearing and living the Word of God deepens and as we continue to comprehend the treasure, ramifications and challenges of the Second Vatican Council, Fr. Witherup takes us on a journey of understanding and appreciation of Scripture and one of the Council’s foundational documents, the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation, a journey that is unequalled. A survey of the history, the meaning and implications of Dei Verbum, as well as practical suggestions for the future are succinctly summarized with comprehensive clarity and fervent fidelity. This book is ideal for individual and group reflection and study, and then needs to be kept on a near-by bookshelf for continual reference.” Janet Schaeffler, OP Author, Retreat and Adult Faith Formation Facilitator“Ronald Witherup's treatment of the great Constitution on Divine Revelation provides the reader with an excellent tour of one of the most important church documents of the last five hundred years. It's both scholarly and yet very accessible. For teachers, preachers, and pastoral ministers, this book is essential reading because it embraces so fully the central role of the inspired Word of God in the life of today's Church.”Bill Huebsch is the author of The Spiritual Wisdom of Saint John XXIII (Twenty-Third Publications, 2014)The book is entirely accessible and blessedly concise. It would . . . be perfect for use in adult faith formation class or in RCIA or for the general reader. It looks at the historical context out of which Dei Verbum came, and examines each paragraph of the document, explaining the key citations and those significances that might not be obvious to the average reader . . . Reading Witherup's short but exceedingly well done analysis of the text should help cure the neglect that Dei Verbum has received. Any parish study group, adult faith formation class, high school CCD instructor, and the like will derive great benefit from reading it and reacquainting themselves with the critical document of Vatican II. I commend it without reserve. Michael Sean Winters, National Catholic Reporter

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Book SynopsisLove Must Win OutTrade ReviewA superb short introduction to the life of one of the great prophets of the 20th century. Kevin Clarke's beautifully written and solidly researched biography of Archbishop Romero is an inspiring introduction to the life of a man who gave everything-including his life-for the poor, for the church and for God. Highly recommended. James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage

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Book SynopsisThomas Merton's lectures to the young monastics at the Abbey of Gethsemani provide a good look at Merton the scholar. A Course in Christian Mysticism gathers together, for the first time, the best of these talks into a spiritual, historical, and theological survey of Christian mysticism—from St. John's gospel to St. John of the Cross.Trade Review"With both Merton's masterful lectures on Christian mysticism, and the helpful guide questions at the end, this book presents not only an intellectual exploration of the mystical texts but also a profound spiritual engagement with contemplative prayer for those who wish to drink deeply from the wells of this spiritual tradition."Carmel Posa, SGS, Executive Director, New Norcia Institute"A Course in Christian Mysticism is an excellent source for those who want to begin a systematic study of the great early masters of the Christian mystical tradition. Merton offers us his keen perception of these teachings with an eye to our contemporary search for the Divine, that `mystery of our union with God.' Merton's command of the sources is aided by Sweeney's skilled editing, which makes Merton's lectures more accessible to readers. I highly recommend this resource."Laura Swan, OSB, Associate editor of Magistra"This wonderful volume transports the reader across time and space and permits us to become students of Thomas Merton alongside his novitiate formandi. The genius of Merton's scholarly mind and prayerful spirit are on full display as he takes us on a historical and spiritual journey of discovery. A Course in Christian Mysticism is not only a must-read text for fans of Merton, but also a great introduction to the history of Christian mystical spirituality through the centuries."Daniel P. Horan, OFM, Catholic Theological Union"A fresh, engaging, and accessible course on Christian mysticism from a genuine Christian mystic—this book is a treasure. In his impressive synthesis, Jon M. Sweeney has made some of Thomas Merton's best lectures on some of the greatest Christian mystics available to everyone."Joseph Raab, STL, PhD, Professor of Religious Studies and Theology, Siena Heights University, Co-Editor of The Merton Annual: Studies in Culture, Spirituality and Social Concerns"This is a wonderful book. Straight from Merton himself, it brings us a thorough introduction to, and survey of, the range and depth of Christian mysticism."The Merton Journal"This text is an excellent resource not only to academics but also for sincere aspirants seeking an accessible introduction to a spiritual life." Reading Religion"A welcome contribution to the summaries of the history of Christian spirituality that exist. It is also a great testament to Merton's erudition and to all that he brought to the novices and juniors of his own community."The Downside Review"Called to the mystical life?" Merton suggest that we all are. Not sure where to start? This Course in Christian Mysticism will set you on a solid foundation as you learn from one of the great teachers of the last century."Tjurunga"This delightful book offers a series of conferences given to the young men in formation at Gethsemani between 1961 and 1964, during the time that Thomas Merton was novice master. Intended as an overview of the major figures whose experience and teaching outline something of how to attain to union with God."American Benedictine ReviewTable of ContentsContents Foreword - Michael N. McGregor Editor’s Prologue Preface Lecture 1: The Aim of This Course Lecture 2: Mystical Theology in St. John’s Gospel Lecture 3: Martyrs and Gnostics (Ignatius, Irenaeus, Clement, and Origen) Lecture 4: Divinization and Mysticism (The Cappadocian Fathers) Lecture 5: Evagrius Ponticus Lecture 6: Contemplation and the Cosmos (Maximus the Confessor) Lecture 7: The Dionysian Tradition Lecture 8: Western Mysticism: The Influence of St. Augustine Lecture 9: St. Bernard of Clairvaux Lecture 10: St. Bernard’s Sermons on the Song of Songs. . Lecture 11: Fourteenth Century Mysticism: The Béguines, Eckhart, Tauler Lecture 12: Spanish Mysticism: St. Teresa of Avila and Others Lecture 13: St. John of the Cross: Dark Nights and Spiritual Crises More Sources and Readings Group Discussion Topics and Questions Editor’s Notes Index

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Trade ReviewPaul Turner offers us a concise and accessible guide to the post-Vatican II eucharistic liturgy, replete with a great deal of historical information. This book should provide an excellent guide for parish liturgy committees and anyone interested in gaining a fuller understanding of what we do when we come together for Eucharist. John F. Baldovin, SJ, Boston College School of Theology & MinistryUsing the question `Whose Mass is it?' Paul Turner uncovers the skein of relationships that give people, from the local sacristan to the curial officials of the Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments, a sense of ownership of the Mass. The number of stakeholders is more than most of us imagine, and the relationships between stakeholders are not always easy. Turner invites each stakeholder to recognize the others. He acknowledges the challenges brought on by change, conflicts won and lost, familial tensions heightened-and sometimes resolved-and gifts many and varied shared, neglected, or rejected. With great scholarly erudition and even greater pastoral wisdom, Turner charts a path of mutual recognition that invites each of us to recognize that the liturgy ultimately belongs to Christ, the center who holds both the liturgy and all of us together. Bernadette Gasslein, Editor, Worship"A valuable tool for priests, staff, and liturgy committee; a good review of what we can do, should do, and should not do."Eliot Kapitan, Diocese of Springfield in Illinois"What Turner voices in this book captures the mutual relationship between liturgical renewal and liturgical movement. Turner's book challenges us to reflect on the way we value the celebration of the Mass and what energy we invest into the celebration of the Eucharistic liturgy. After reading this book I was challenged to realize that the Mass is meant for the People of God and tells a story of who we are as Catholics."Emmanuel Ndlovu CMM, Grace & Truth"Ideal for liturgical discussion groups, a review for liturgical ministers, a textbook for parish liturgy committees . . . It will surface useful discussions on local issues and practices, clarify harbored misunderstandings, and help promote good parochial liturgy."Worship"With this book, Turner answers his question definitively: "The Mass does not belong to some idealized past; it belongs to the living church."Pastoral Liturgy

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Book SynopsisAn Ecclesiology for the Third MillenniumTrade ReviewIn a vision that holds the tensions and antinomies together, Rausch's picture is truly catholic.WorshipThis concise but well documented synthesis is an invaluable resource on Catholic ecclesiology, its ecumenical engagements, and prospects for the future as Christianity moves into the postmodern world.Theological StudiesThe intelligence and clarity of this study, and the breadth of voices and issues it synthesizes, makes it a useful text for professors and students to use in surveying the landscape of ecclesiological tasks.Catholic StudiesRausch writes with ease and clarity about matters of deep concern of good people everywhere. Little of lasting value will be achieved in our efforts to advance Christian unity if Rausch’s plea for removing barriers and building bridges is ignored by church authorities.Prairie MessengerReaders will come to the last page of this encouraging and enlightening book with the sober hopefulness imparted by good news.Prairie MessengerWe strongly recommend this new book for your thoughtful reading and reflection.The Catholic Book Club Newsletter

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Book SynopsisA HistoryTrade ReviewKelly makes this important history not only interesting, but also timely and important for every person in the pew. He weaves the issues the councils addressed into their historical context and makes the individuals who were involved come alive.Liturgical MinistryKelly has written quite a bit on topics related to church history and has a very easy to read writing style. In this present volume he offers a brief overview of all the ecumenical councils of the church situating them in their historical periods. He gives information on specific issues dealt with at each council and highlights some of the significant players in each of them.Emmanuel MagazineHighly recommended. Lower- and upper-level undergraduates; general readers.Choice MagazineTerrific. . . . If I were to teach a course on the councils, [Kelly’s] would be the book.John O’Malley, SJ, Georgetown University, Author of What Happened at Vatican IIIn clear and concise language, Kelly describes the political and theological context of the councils that made Catholicism what it is today.Thomas J. Reese, SJ, Senior Fellow, Woodstock Theological Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DCJoseph Kelly has written a remarkable text on the general councils of the Catholic Church. The work abounds in deft characterizations of major figures in Christian history. It tells an often complicated history with mastery of the salient points, even adding touches of humor. It conveys massive amounts of information in prose easy to read and digest. It sets the councils’ teaching and reform decrees in the vital context of a church caught up in the swirl of cultural and political changes. Best of all, it contributes a concise account, accurately set forth, to the current discussion and argument over the significance of the Second Vatican Council and its work to refashion Catholic life for the present day.Jared Wicks, SJ, Emeritus professor of theology, Gregorian University, Rome, Consultor, Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian UnityJoseph F. Kelly has written a history of ecumenical councils—but more than that. His narrative begins before Nicea (325) and continues past Vatican II (1962–65), as he sets the councils in their historical and theological context. In clear and lively style, he traces some of the greatest achievements of the church of Jesus Christ, without neglecting troubled times and stubborn impasses. Readers will not only learn much from this book but also enjoy it as they do so.Joseph T. Lienhard, SJ, Fordham University

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Book SynopsisCatholicism in the Third Millennium offers an appreciation of the forces and movements that have shaped, and continue to influence, the ongoing change and development of Roman Catholicism.Trade ReviewThis book would be useful to teachers and administrators in Catholic schools, to participants in R.C.I.A. programs and, in general, to anyone seeking to learn how Catholics make sense of life today.Studies in Religion. . . invaluable as a learning resource for candidates enrolled in our certificate program for Catholic leadership in health, education, and social services. . . . Thomas Rausch's accessible text, enhanced in its second edition by Catherine Clifford's comprehensive questions and glossary, should be required reading for all Catholics over the age of 50 and strongly recommended for everyone else.M.J. Marrocco, Director of Continuing Education, University of St. Michael's College, Toronto, OntarioThis second edition of Rausch's extremely serviceable survey of Roman Catholic faith, ethics, and practice has been augmented with updated bibliographies, focus questions, and glossary to make the work even more user-friendly for those who desire an overview of the Roman Catholic Church. A useful appendix includes a three-page list of places where topics in the present text correlate with material found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. . . . Rausch writes with clarity, which should make this work a fine first introduction to Catholicism for either classroom or adult education.Theology TodayAn expanded and updated version of Thomas Rausch's well-received, Catholicism at the Dawn of the Third Millennium (1996), this volume is a welcome source for undergraduate classes and adult study groups. . . after receiving the review copy of Catholicism in the Third Millennium, I decided to adopt it as the basic text for my undergraduate course on Roman Catholicism. It will be interesting to see if my students react to it as positively as I did.Catholic Studies Book Review

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Book SynopsisSeeks to clarify and confirm the status of baptized persons. This title explores the rites of reception in the early church and the Second Vatican Council's call for ecumenical dialogue. It also looks to the reception rites of other Christian communities.Trade ReviewTurner explores theological, pastoral, and ritual aspects of Confirmation that have long been in need of deeper conversation. The title tells it all, as this book endeavors to look at how other Christians are received into full communion with the Catholic Church. . . . Readers are listening and are well informed by When Other Christians Become Catholic to further an inspiring vision of Baptism and Christian unity.Catechumenate This book will be helpful to RCIA teams, worship commissions, and others interested in liturgy. It should be required reading for every pastor and RCIA director.Pastoral LiturgyBy offering the proper contexts in which to understand what we do when we receive baptized Christians into the full communion of the Catholic Church, Turner has challenged us to examine our practices and to move toward rites that better reflect the true nature of what we are doing and in this way to witness to the unity of Christians as it is now and as it is to be.Pastoral MusicThis is an excellent overview of the program that will help pastors to train those who teach or sponsor candidates in the program, or who would like to explain the historical basis for revival of the catechumenate program at the parish level. It should be read by pastors and be on the shelves of seminary libraries.Catholic Library WorldTradition is not the past but the Church’s present understanding of the dynamic treasure its past has transmitted. Authored by one who is both scholar and pastor, this book on a hitherto neglected area of pastoral liturgy opens up for the reader the riches of that tradition in a way that makes them relevant for today. Paul Turner’s illuminating analysis of the multiple problems implicit in the formation of liturgical rites, past and present, demonstrates that change has always been the law of Catholic liturgy, and that Catholic rites modified in the aftermath of Vatican II were themselves also the product of growth and change to express new understandings and meet new needs. The new rites for receiving baptized Christians into full communion with the Catholic Church are delineated clearly and critically, with special emphasis on problems peculiar to their American adaptation and use. Read this book and you’ll wish Paul Turner were your pastor. RobeBAPTISM MAKES IT DIFFERENT! Beware when you read this book! It will change how you implement the Initiation process in your parish. Paul Turner has once again given the Church a masterful book to help all of us understand Baptism and in particular how we are to walk with those who approach the Catholic Church for 'union and communion'. Besides a comprehensive historical grasp of the development of the Rite of Reception into the Catholic Faith, he also provides practical insights and direction for those involved in today’s initiation ministry with candidates for reception into full communion of the Catholic Church.Sr. Gael Gensler, OSF Pastoral associate, St. Julie Billiart Parish Tinley Park, ILNo one working in any facet of the Rites of Christian Iniatiation of Adults in today's churches, can afford to miss this book! Clearly and succinctly written, Paul Turner underscores that the RCIA is not about making 'converts' out of baptized Christians from other traditions but was intended to be and should be still about the way in which unbaptized people are fully initiated into Christ and the Church. Hence, this study explores in an ecumenically-sensitive way what our common baptism means with regard to rites of reception into full communion.Maxwell Johnson, Professor of Liturgical Studies, Department of Theology, University of Notre Dame

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