Dynamic Catholicism: A Historical Catechism

by Thomas Bokenkotter

Formerly Essential Catholicism , this book has been retitled to reflect how, through the centuries, the Roman Catholic Church has evolved in many aspects of its teaching. The new title also reflects how theologians today grapple with ever new ways of understanding many facets of Catholic belief and practice.

Who is Jesus? Or Mary? Who are the saints? How are theologians trying to understand such topics as marriage, divorce, homosexuality? What of social justice? The relationship of conscience to papal authority? Thomas Bokenkotter masterfully shows how these questions and many others have been answered in different ways through the centuries. He also translates the latest theological writings on these topics into plain language. "My aim," he says, "has been to sift through and select what seems most helpful and enlightening for those who seek an understanding of the essentials of Catholicism today." Here, then, is a book for all Catholics -- those assured in their belief and those questioning it.

Genres: Religion

438 pages, Paperback

First published August 5, 1986

About the author

Thomas Bokenkotter is the author of the bestselling A Concise History of the Catholic Church. With a doctorate in history (Louvain University) he teaches at Xavier University in Cincinnati. He is also the pastor of Assumption Church there and is active in the social ministry, running a soup kitchen that he founded twenty years ago and a transitional living facility for homeless women and children.

Reviews

[CHARLES S DOUCETTE · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author of this book was by all accounts a wonderful person and a caring priest but his theological views are typical of the’60s and ‘70s peaceniks. His views about Jesus and God as wishy-washy hippies and the Bible as just a manual for everyone just to get along

[Bill Hennessy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book to understand the history/development of Catholic theology. Easy to read and very comprehensive.

[Pat Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent analysis of the development of the Catholic theology but written so a lay person can understand it.

[Frank Jude · Rating 3 out of 5]

Published in 1986, there is still much that is relevant for contemporary readers. It would be a great contribution if an updated edition could be made available. However, for the historical elements, as well as for much of the ethical coverage, I highly recommend this book to anyone who'd like to know more about this institution that has so shaped western history. Catholics, especially, should read this to have a better understanding of their religion.