The Church Emerging from Vatican II: A Popular Approach to Contemporary Catholicism

by Dennis M. Doyle

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• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0896225070
• ISBN13: 9780896225077
• Release Date: October 1992
• Publisher: Twenty-Third Publications
• Length: 349 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.0" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Student Friendly

Students are challenged by Catholic doctrine presented in very everyday situations. Conservative students are pushed to consider the value of feminist theology and social justice, while liberal students encounter the necessity of authority and revelation. Doyle's even-handed treatment of the theological spectrum makes Church Emerging more than an history book, or dry list of doctrines. Instead the book functions as a bridge between left and right by illustrating that the concerns of both stem from the gospel message. The dusty events and documents of the Second Vatican Council are presented within the context of contemporary issues so the Church Emerging both informs students of past occurences, as it jars them into considering how Catholic teaching might (gasp) apply to their own lives today.Other features which make this book an excellent choice for the classroom or personal study are the discussion questions and bibliography found at the end of each chapter. I have found students eager to engage in conversation after reflecting upon Doyle's questions. Throughout the fact-packed text main points are highlighted and summarized in tables, lists and charts, making it easier for students to identify the important concepts of each chapter. Furthermore, Doyle begins each chapter by sharing a personal experience or story. This functions not merely as a catchy intro, but students have commented that they feel close to the author and more comfortable with negotiating through the material. In writing Church Emerging from Vatican II, Dr. Doyle has provided a great service for the students, the teachers and the Church.

Church Emerging...

A lucid and engaging exposition of some of the more salient issues facing the contemporary Roman Catholic Church. An excellent introductory resource for students.

An ideal introduction to the theology of the Church

I am astonished at how much basic and important information can be found in this book; and yet it is consistently presented in a very personal, engaging way. Doyle presents sophisticated theological reflection in a form that accurately guages the needs and abilities of undergraduates in the United Staes. The author's personal/confessional commentary makes the vital connection between experience and theology while clearly setting forth the official teachings of the Church. I have used this book for several semesters with great success. My students love it.

Living Vatican II in the Day to Day

The author of this book has created a collection of short personal stories that introduce and brilliantly exemplify explanations of the main focal points of two of the key Vatican II documents. In the best Catholic "both-and" tradition Doyle manages to thoroughly present most aspects of the issues associated with the documents, offering his skillful synthesis to the reader to then consider and digest. The book is a wonderful read, ideal for both everday "Catholics in the pews" and undergraduate students who wish to learn more about their great Vatican II heritage. Overall, a masterful work.

Birds Eye Balanced View

This is an excellent start for understanding Vatican II. I recommend this to all Catholics who want an overview of what the illusive "spirit" of Vatican II is. By focusing on two key documents, by using personal experience, and with a balanced view, Doyle does a great job.