Book review: The (Church) Fathers 2008
The Fathers is a very enjoyable and highly readable summary of the lives and contributions of the first 10 saints designated Doctors of the Church, plus sixteen other important early Church fathers, including saints, bishops, priests and laymen. It is a useful quick reference and is fascinating in revealing views of our current Pope Benedict XVI regarding the actions and opinions of these leaders of the Church.
Beginning with Pope St Clement I dc 97, the fourth Pope, who's Letter to the Corinthians seems most likely attributable to him, although various other writings survive which also have been attributed to him, Pope Benedict's interest and sensitivity to the concerns and trials of the early Christians is apparent.
The Fathers are discussed chronologically, proceeding to St Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch dc 109, St Justin, philosopher and martyr dc 165, St Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons dc 203 and more, concluding with St Paulinus, Bishop of Nola dc430 and St Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, dc 430.
Although the book can be very quickly read, many sections are worth rereading, especially for those interested in the efforts to enunciate and reconcile the variety of views and practices which arose in different parts of the Church in hiding throughout the world through the first 300 years of nearly persistent and often appalling persecution. Abruptly, shockingly, Christianity was proclaimed the Church of the empire, but then, as now, there were many forms and practices of the Church.
After an enjoyable quick read I think you'll be drawn back repeatedly to consider further the faith, brilliance and heroism of all those who kept the Light of Christ burning through a very dark period. Let's pray that God will grant more such leaders to emerge in our time.
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Author: eschator83
Location: Manchester New Hampshire USA
Gender: Male
Age: 66
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i've been blessed to serve a quarter-century as a leader of faith-sharing and initiation groups in my church, and i have seen the power and the love of god and his holy spirit. when i was a child, my father led our family from ny to pa, then il, and...
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god is faithful and will not let you be tried beyond your strength; but with the trial he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to bear it. (1 corr 10:13 nab)......
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