Dorothy Day for Armchair Theologians

by Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty, Ron Hill (Illustrator)

If theology is about more than books and libraries, lecture halls and dusty debates; if theology is instead about lived experience, especially the experiences of those living at the margins of society's care and concern; if, in short, theology is about the real needs of real people, then Dorothy Day was one of the greatest theologians of the twentieth century. In spite of having no formal training in theology, Day's work and writing on behalf of the poor and oppressed bears eloquent testimony to the creativity and courage of her theological vision. Her journalism for the Catholic Worker and her advocacy for the poor, women, ethnic minorities, and others come together to form a consistent theology of the church and its ministry to the world. In this contribution to the Armchair Theologians series, Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty demonstrates how Day's tireless work on behalf of the marginalized arose from and articulates a deeply theological commitment to the Reign of God and the dignity of all God's children. This book is the perfect introduction to the Day's remarkable life and powerful vision.

Genres: Theology, Biography

235 pages, Paperback

First published August 25, 2014

Reviews

[James Klagge · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot from this that I didn't know about Dorothy Day. The worst part of the book was the goofy illustrations, which I imagine were inserted by the publisher. They did not add to the book. The best part was the last chapter, where the author talked about the relevance of Day and the Catholic Worker Movement today, and its impact on her own life.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received and ARC from NetGalley.

I was looking forward to learning more about Dorothy Day as I've been meaning to read her biography, but I was disappointed by this book. It was not well written and the narrative skipped around in a way that was confusing. I didn't finish it.

[Elise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Discussion of Day's life & theology was decent. Enjoyed the part at the end when the author discussed trying to implement Day's philosophy in her own life.

[Samantha Thornberry · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book for the most part was okay. It clearly was written by someone non Catholic who was painting Dorothy Day in a certain light. As a Catholic I was hoping to fall in love with Day’s life. One of the last chapters talked about feminism, not really in the light of Catholicism. The Catholic Church strongly admires women, this book did not reflect this reality. Also she talks about saints in the faith and could’ve labeled them as saints but refuse to say in alignment with the Catholic worker movement.

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful introduction to Dorothy Day that traces her story, thought and life's work. Hinson-Hasty does an excellent job of sketching the historical context in which Day lived and provides a unique personal reflection as a last chapter. And as always in this series, the fun illustrations by Ron Hill are a joy. As I write an essay about Day and her theology of mission, this book was an invaluable introduction.