FREE SPEECH IN THE CHURCH

by ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 16, 1960

The introductory essay of this book deals forthrightly and intelligently with the subject of free speech and ""public opinion"" within the Church, stressing the need, right, duty, ways of expression and limitations connected with this too long neglected aspect of Catholic living. The author shows clearly how necessary a sort of ""Her Majesty's Opposition"" is within the Church for the benefit of the hierarchy and to help preserve the lines of orthodoxy in theological attitudes and speculative developments. The rest of the book is itself an exemplary exercise in free speech on the part of the author, as he discusses critically ""The Prospect for Christianity"". He deals with the causes and symptoms of present discouragement and anxiety among Catholics with sensitivity, objectivity and complete honesty, predicting that no new ""Christian era"" will emerge in the foreseeable future, and suggesting that today's Catholics make up their minds to live in a depressing situation for the rest of their lives. This is all seen ultimately, however, in the light of a basic Christian optimism born of long-range natural speculation and the supernatural understanding of the implications of Christian faith. This is a book very much needed today to help bolster the faltering faith of those whose defeatism is here eloquently articulated and given its proper interpretation in the Christian scheme of things.

Pub Date: March 16, 1960

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Sheed & Ward

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 1, 1960

Categories: NONFICTION