Public Dimensions of a Believer's Life: Rediscovering the Cardinal Virtues
Monika Hellwig brings a deep and broad knowledge of the Catholic Christian tradition, a lifetime of varied experience, and a believer's commitment to challenge all of us about our responsibility for the public dimension of our lives. Her fascinating approach develops each chapter by discussing two related but, at times, opposed concepts (e.g., obedience and discernment, fairness and compassion, tradition and change). The book is challenging, wise, perceptive, and radical in the best sense of the word. I hope it has the widest possible readership and that we readers will accept its call to work for a better human society. (Charles E. Curran, Elizabeth Scurlock University Professor of Human Values, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University)In Germany during the rise of Hitler, in Rome during Vatican II, Monika Hellwig has for decades been a perceptive and courageous witness to events in both Church and world. Here she reflects with keen insight on the interplay of Christian faith and public life with the wisdom of experience and the courage that more of our best known theologians should exhibit. She analyses the tensions— both within the Church and in secular society—that confront mature faith today. (Daniel Finn, Professor of Theology, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John?s University)A stunning essay, steeped in the wisdom of a mature believer who has wrestled for decades with faith's public meaning. Salted with examples, this book takes the reader on a tour of critical questions, and tenders solutions steeped in prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude. Read it and think. Think and be strengthened to chart a path of conscience in church and society. (Elizabeth A. Johnson, Distinguished Professor of Theology, Fordham University)