Many people are open to spirituality but closed to religion. Biblical wisdom reminds us that we are persons-in-relationship. We relate to ourselves, others, the planet and God.

Rejecting the wisdom of the biblical lodestar can facilitate a rejection of our identity. The effects are only too prevalent. If we are unaware that we are in a relationship of stewardship with the planet, we will continue to destroy it. If we forget that we are in solidarity with others, social injustice will continue. If we forget that we are living in graced dependence we will exploit others.

Our world has reached a critical stage and we stand at a crossroads where huge decisions need to be urgently made. This book attempts to highlight the value of spirituality and religion and how they complement one another. It tries to promote biblical and eucharistic literacy in a more contemporary idiom. But most of all, this book discusses the four Jesuit priorities as the way to redress the implosion of our world and in reimagining Christianity in a modern guise, as it's clear that the ways we always did things is no longer an option.

There is no place for passive bystanders when our world is falling apart. The Jesuit priorities urge us to be reflective, paying attention to our experience of life and learning from it. They stress the urgency of social and climate justice. They challenge us to promote a hope-filled world for our children. There is an urgency in the air that the four Jesuit priorities address.

About the Author
Jim Maher S.J. was born in Limerick and educated by the Salesian sisters and then the local Jesuit Sacred Heart College. He has spent most of his Jesuit life ministering at Crescent College Comprehensive as a teacher of English and R.E. He managed the Social Outreach Programme and led pilgrimage retreats for over thirty years. Since retiring from the classroom, he continues to provide pastoral support at Crescent College Comprehensive.

Reviews

'Across the spectrum of ages and viewpoints [this book] will help to bring a sense of togetherness and community.'

* The Irish Catholic *

'[the author] highlights the value of spirituality and religion, how they complement each other and their role in providing purpose and meaning in life'

* The Catholic Post *

'Jim Maher invites young readers and the rest of us to engage with a grown-up version of God. Any group or individual working through this book will not escape untransformed.'

* Methodist Recorder *

'identifies and interrogates operative images of God, church and society while offering a vision for the future of these in terms of key Jesuit values, spiritual and social, ecological and generational.'

* The Furrow *



Book Information
ISBN 9781788126083
Author Jim Maher
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint Messenger Publications
Publisher Messenger Publications