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The Truth of Catholicism : Inside the Essential Teachings and Controversies of the Church Today

The Truth of Catholicism : Inside the Essential Teachings and Controversies of the Church Today

List Price: $12.95
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Product Info Reviews

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Rating: 4 stars
Summary: Eye opening
Review: Mr. Weigel, an eminent Catholic theologian, truly does the Church a service by explaining in depth the reasoning behind some of Catholicism's most controversial positions. Whether you are a committed Catholic or an ex-Catholic, you will benefit from this book.

The one aspect of "The Truth of Catholicism" that stands out in my mind is its philosophical/theological approach to issues. This isn't a conventional book in the sense that one can "open" to "the" chapter on, say, contraception and find answers. Mr. Weigel's book is brilliantly cumulative; that is, understanding of succeeding topics depends on understanding of certain Catholic principles and concepts that he spells out before discussing the actual "controversies." "The Truth of Catholicism," for me, was eye opening because it explained these bedrock principles that, as a Catholic, even I had not understood or been aware of. It really gave me an appreciation for the sheer depth of Catholic philosophy and thinking.

My only complaint is that the book was just too short! Regrettably, the author leaves some to be desired on the issues of divorce and ordination of women. As I was reading I wanted to dialogue with Mr. Weigel, ask him questions about this or that conclusion. But I do recommend the book wholeheartedly!

Rating: 3 stars
Summary: Where is the gospel?
Review: Whether you like this book will depend on how central you believe the gospel is to Catholicism. This book struck me as an exercise in apologetics for Pope John Paul II and Cardinal Ratzinger. There was very little of the gospel to be found.

I bought the book on the basis of the welcoming introduction, "An invitation to come inside", which echoed the warmth & welcome of most congregations I know. After a few chapters, though, I felt the doors were clanging shut behind me.

The book is well-written and is a good exposition of the positions of the current leadership of the church and how some of its more controversial positions have developed. Taking that into account, I gave it 3 stars. However, because of its uncritical acceptance of an extremely culture-bound understanding of catholicism, without relating it to the touchstone of the gospels, please read with caution. Read the New Testament instead.


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