This book addresses controversial issues in contemporary church life. Issues examined include: gender and sexuality, relation of lay and ordained ministries, the relation of biblical Israel and the modern state, the differences between the Hebrew Scriptures and the Old Testament, and deference to tradition as well as openness.

This book addresses controversial issues in contemporary church life using liturgical commentary, homiletical illustration, and theological reflection. Issues examined include: gender and sexuality, relation of lay and ordained ministries, the relation of biblical Israel and the modern state, the differences between the Hebrew Scriptures and the Old Testament, the need for careful expository preaching, and deference to tradition as well as openness to new ways. The focus here is on the Episcopal Church in America, yet the examples and pleadings have relevance to the wider Christian community.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 540-542) and indexes.

Over 3 million copies sold! Essential reading for Catholics of all walks of life. Here it is - the first new Catechism of the Catholic Church in more than 400 years, a complete summary of what Catholics around the world commonly believe. The Catechism draws on the Bible, the Mass, the Sacraments, Church tradition and teaching, and the lives of saints. It comes with a complete index, footnotes and cross-references for a fuller understanding of every subject. The word catechism means "instruction" - this book will serve as the standard for all future catechisms. Using the tradition of explaining what the Church believes (the Creed), what she celebrates (the Sacraments), what she lives (the Commandments), and what she prays (the Lord's Prayer), the Catechism of the Catholic Church offers challenges for believers and answers for all those interested in learning about the mystery of the Catholic faith. The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a positive, coherent and contemporary map for our spiritual journey toward transformation.

Marriage and Holy Orders is for high school students who will soon be embarking on a new stage in life which will initially include college and career planning but will naturally lead to vocational choices such as marriage, religious life, or priesthood. Two vocations that are conferred with their own sacraments--marriage and holy priesthood--are the focus of the text and are set in the context of a practical study of what it means to live the Christian and human vocation. Each chapter of the student text includes several regular features, including: - an opening Scripture quotation - Review questions and Journal/Discussion starters for each main section - Several relevant features that connect with the main material - Minds, Hearts, and Hands assignments that help the students connect the material to service, prayer, and further study - Vocabulary words highlighted in the text and defined in the margins - Ten application projects or assignments that students can choose to work on throughout the entire chapter A Teacher's Wraparound Edition is available as well as supplemental online resources at www.avemariapress.com