Description
Book SynopsisThe 264-page memoir of a Catholic priest and theologian who has spent a lifetime advocating for the reform of outdated policies and practices of the Church. A prolific writer of Christian literature and film scripts, he was the founder and director of a center for faith formation in London, which continues today as the Wijngaards Institute for Catholic Research. This book reveals his "Ten Commandments" for Church reform - ranging from the inclusion of women in the priesthood to the appointment of open-minded, pastoral bishops rather than hard-line traditionalists.
Table of ContentsPrologue; Preface; What?! Me trying to reform the Catholic Church?; Part 1 Learning to think for myself; Into the gaping jaws of war; From the pincers of death; Rescuing my self-respect; Pledging utter dedication; Learning to think independently; What kind of priest?; Training for academic war at university; Part 2 On the Front Line; Subversive tactics at the heart of the Church; Joining the battle at Vatican Council II; Teaching future priests in India; Establishing a Catholic Information Centre; Funding Church projects at the grass roots; Creative endeavors in book & film; Coordinating mission worldwide; The future of Missionary Societies; Bishops appointed by Rome to block Church renewal; Part 3 Fighting the "Anti-Sex Bug" in the Church; The octopus of sexual repression; Screwed up sex guru; Lightning strikes from Rome; The ordination of women; Creating a training institute for religious sisters; Finding God in a loving partner?; Part 4 Helping Catholics become Adult Believers; Teaching on three fronts; Bringing priests down to earth; Treating the faithful as adults; Wielding my pen; Counselling victims of sects and cults; Walking on Water; How to make sense of God; 5 The Clash and Renewed Resolve; Inner turmoil leading to action; Stepping down from my official position; No sympathy from the Vatican; My marriage to Jackie Clackson; Academic research to update the Church; Glossary; Appendix 1 - Ten Commandments for Church Reform; Appendix 2 Timeline; Appendix 3 - My resignation from priestly ministry; Index; Photo & Art credits; About the Author; Publications
