Publisher Description

A general introduction to the theology of Pope Benedict XVI, including his approach to issues in moral and political theology, ecclesiology, liturgy, interpretations of the of the documents of the Second Vatican Council, and the theology of history. Tracey Rowland also addresses the question of Pope Benedict's place in the constellation of contemporary Catholic theologians. It has become a commonplace observation that Pope Benedict has been influenced by the thoughtof St Augustine, in contrast to many of his predecessors in the papacy who were much more strongly influenced by St Thomas Aquinas. Rowland therefore asks in what way Benedict is an Augustinian, andhow this marked difference in theological perspective may play out in the coming years. Her book includes an extensive thematic bibliography, which will be valuable for students.

Notes

The first substantial assessment of Benedict XVI's theological vision, this illuminates his relation to other thinkers and the Catholic tradition. It includes an extensive thematic bibliography, which will be valuable for students. There will be reviews in the broadsheets and religious media.

Author Biography

Tracey Rowland is Dean and Associate Professor of Political Philosophy and Continental Theology of the John Paul II Institute, Melbourne, Australia, and Member of the Centre of Theology and Philosophy at the University of Nottingham.

Table of Contents

His Eminence George Cardinal Pell: ForewordIntroduction1: Ratzinger and Contemporary Theological Circles2: 'Gaudium et spes' and the Importance of Christ3: Revelation, Scripture, and Tradition4: Beyond Moralism: God is Love5: The Structure of the Communion6: Modernity and the Politics of the West7: Liturgy since Vatican IIConclusion

Review

A book with an inspirational message. Joanna Bogle. Catholic Times. A fascinating book. Christopher Howse, Daily Telegraph

Promotional

The first authoritative assessment of Pope Benedict's theological vision

Long Description

A general introduction to the theology of Pope Benedict XVI, including his approach to issues in moral and political theology, ecclesiology, liturgy, interpretations of the of the documents of the Second Vatican Council, and the theology of history. Tracey Rowland also addresses the question of Pope Benedict's place in the constellation of contemporary Catholic theologians. It has become a commonplace observation that Pope Benedict has been influenced by the thought
of St Augustine, in contrast to many of his predecessors in the papacy who were much more strongly influenced by St Thomas Aquinas. Rowland therefore asks in what way Benedict is an Augustinian, and how this marked difference in theological perspective may play out in the coming years. Her book
includes an extensive thematic bibliography, which will be valuable for students.

Review Quote

"The pope's deep and passionate love for the adventure of theology shines through this text, which is geared to the reasonably educated lay reader. Not only papal enthusiasts but also libraries and professional theologians will want to have this book." --Theological Studies ""Both intellectually sophisticated and yet aimed at the ordinary educated reader...Provides valuable insight into how an influential contemporary theologian and--perhaps--other members of her circle view the development of contemporary Catholic theology and Ratzinger's role in it." --The Thomist

Feature

The first substantial assessment of Benedict XVI's theological vision
Illuminates his relation to other thinkers and the Catholic tradition
Looks at his theological influences and how these shape his strategic priorities

Details