Sanctify Them in Truth: How the Church's Social Doctrine Addresses the Issues of Our Time

by Jeffrey Kirby

We live in a world that has become secularized, marked by ideology and partisanship. In such a world, how are we supposed to know what is right and wrong? As Christians, how are we supposed to approach the social issues of our day? With conflicting voices surrounding us, how can we hear and know the voice of Jesus Christ and receive His teachings?
 
As Christians, we seek to live the way of the Lord Jesus, but that’s easier said than done. We want to demonstrate the Lord’s love and kindness to all men and women, but we’re faced with issues that cause us to discern what that looks like and how it’s virtuously expressed. We want to do what is right and good, but trying to determine right and wrong can at times be confusing and unsettling.
 
The teaching authority of the Church is here to help. Appointed by Jesus Christ, our shepherds discern, interpret, and apply His teachings to our everyday lives.
 
Sanctify Them in Truth , by Fr. Jeffrey Kirby, is an approachable, easy-to-read guide on eight of our most pressing social issues. The book applies divine wisdom and the guidance of the Church as it dissects oft-debated topics, presenting helpful teaching so that the reader knows how to navigate today’s contentious world with conviction and a clear conscience.
 
The book
   
In all these matters, the truth of Christ is the foundation for any response. Fr. Kirby’s pastoral guidance helps to build that foundation in our intellects and in our wills, so that we can serve as a beacon for truth in a world that despises it.   

Genres: Catholic

176 pages, Paperback

Published March 22, 2022

About the author

Father Jeff Kirby is the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Grace Parish in Indian Land, South Carolina (gracewepray.org). He holds a doctorate in moral theology from the Holy Cross University in Rome and a Master of Arts in Philosophy from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Father Kirby serves as an Adjunct Professor of Theology at Belmont Abbey College and Pontifex University. He has authored several books, including "Lord, Teach Us to Pray," "Kingdom of Happiness: Living the Beatitudes in Everyday Life," "God's Search for Us," and most recently, "Be Not Troubled: A 6-Day Personal Retreat with Fr. Jean-Pierre DeCaussade."

In 2016, Father Kirby was recognized by Governor Nikki Haley and granted the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, for his service to local communities and young adults throughout the state.

Working with St. Benedict Press and Catholic Scripture Study International, Father Kirby was the Host of the award-winning program "Doors of Mercy" and was one of the co-instructors of the programs, "Luke: The Gospel of Mercy" and "Jesus Revealed."

Father Kirby is a weekly Senior Contributor for the news site Crux: Taking the Catholic Pulse.

Reviews

[Joanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

As a cradle Catholic, I think books and materials that make a sincere attempt to explain the teachings of the Catholic Church on social issues are important, but I am not comfortable that this is a thorough and sincere attempt. While I understand that much of what the author says in this book is true, he presents a terribly one-sided view of Church teaching without explaining or clarifying any of the legitimate nuances or exceptions. His strident interpretations and mischaraterizations of certain issues and theories make me question his intentions, his sincerity and therefore, his credibiity. Ours is not a world of absolutes, and I have been raised in a Church that recognizes our humanity. Candidly, I did not perceive much compassion or humanity in this book.

[Robert Federline · Rating 4 out of 5]

one of the great problems from which modern society struggles is the lie that everyone has their own truth. There is Truth in the world, but it is not different for every person. Truth is universal and unchanging.

Societies come and go; the world's viewpoints alter, but God is unchanging and eternal. So too must be the True Church's teachings. They may not vaccilate and be as changeable as the wind. They must be steadfast and coninuously honor God and all He stands for.

This work explores the underpinnings of some of the Church's more important, and immutable, positions. We must always honor the dignity of Man, if only because he is made in God's own image. We must resist the beguiling of the world and hold fast to the Truth that is God and resides with Him.