Laity's mission in the local church: Setting a new direction

By Leonard Doohan

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0866834907
• ISBN13: 9780866834902
• Release Date: January 1986
• Publisher: Harper & Row
• Length: 146 Pages
• Weight: 0.35 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Not a Disappointment!

Laity's Mission in the Local Church is an excellent purchase for three reasons. The first is the familiarity of the author's name from Gonzaga University and former dean of the graduate school of religious studies. Second, a simplified understanding of the term laity, that is often used in Catholic education and action. And third, to shake off one's stubborn philosophical mind set in order to incorporate both the verbal and written religious language into the context of a churched experience to better commit oneself in Catholicism's ecclesiological service.Leonard Doohan's book is not a disappointment because it provides an openness of the world from a Christian vantage point. Prof. Doohan eloquently describes situations that can beset both Christian and individual growth. Doohan, for example, describes church experience that is commonly shared by others, but said in a respectable tone and desirable language so others can identify, understand better and how to rectify these issues for Christian, for human and for world progress (19ff). In my opinion, Doohan shares both a philosophical and religious world-view of humanity and provides ideas for better servicing ourselves and humanity. Here is an excerpt on prayer that is described in a philosophical manner as an alternative way of looking at it and approaching it (prayer):"Prayer requires stillness. We need to sit still, do nothing, and completely relax. Any technique for relaxation that helps us acquire stillness in the presence of God can be used... It is acquired very gradually through self-training in the context of daily life. In addition to stillness, prayer requires openness ... developed in daily life an attitude of total attentiveness to ourselves, to our family and friends, to our world's needs... Every aspect of life becomes a prayer value... permeated by life-attitudes of adoration, thanksgiving, sorrow, petition, and love." (116-118).