“This remarkable book sets a new standard by which all future books on the lives of the saints will be measured.”
“In these short, splendidly wrought profiles, Robert Ellsberg gives us a vigorous cloud of witnesses—mystics, martyrs, social activists, artists, writers, composers—who do what all saints do: mediate the many and surprising ways in which grace makes discipleship possible. John Paul II has called for a millennial martyrology of unofficial witnesses to the faith who died in this century; he should start with this book. The Maritains, Bloy and Bernanos, Mozart, Bach and Barth, Heschel and the Baal Shem Tov—all find their places in this richly imagined collection of mediating figures in a spiritual communion of many faiths.”
“This readable and unique overview of historical Catholic and ecumenical views of Mary, mother of Jesus, is written by the Provincial Superior of the Redemptorist Congregation in Britain. McManus is not a Mariologist, but he has published books on spirituality and healing and is known for his international renewal center in England. The book is divided into sections on Mary (particularly as disciple) evident in scripture, the teachings of the early church fathers, later church teachings and theological developments among various denominations, and public and private aspects of Marian devotion. Illustrative quotations and analytical reflections in a concise, well-organized package make this useful for study groups, Marian societies, and anyone seeking updated perspectives on the special role of Mary in faith and history. The book concludes with a moving consideration of Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1) at the beginning of a new millennium. Recommended for public and academic libraries.”
“Weigel’s learned, clearly written, and tightly argued essays stand as the best evidence for his claim that the Christian tradition is indispensable for any serious discussion of the challenges facing our country.”