The Hidden Enemies of the Priesthood: The Contributions of St. Thomas Aquinas

by Basil Cole

This study draws on the insights of St. Thomas Aquinas to help priests and seminarians deal with vices in a healthy and faith-filled way.

2234 pages, Paperback

First published February 16, 2006

Reviews

[Kevin de Ataíde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reasonably useful and enjoyable look through common vices and corresponding virtues, especially as affecting the apostolic priesthood and the diaconate. This book is good and recommended reading material for priests, deacons and seminary students, for its identification of common sins and pitfalls, traps laid before them in the fulfilment of their vocations. I do get the impression that this book could have been shorter, had there been less repetition; it seems that it is a compilation of talks given by a spiritual director, rather than a composed book. Four stars. And who would have thought crowning the work would be acedia, the spiritual depression that opens a side door for the devil? Interesting, indeed.

[Nathan H · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really wonderful read. Fr. Cole really opens up the various vices and how they can impact the Priest specifically in a clear way. He explains Aquinas's thoughts on the vices and their remedies succinctly yet without oversimplifying them.

This was a great spiritual read and I think it'd be a good one to return to every few years.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

very interesting book.