Cardinal Justin Rigali

Christ Our Joy

Theology

“In this very readable and informative work, Monsignor Murphy takes his start from the observation of the profound spiritual joy that Pope Benedict exudes in his homilies, addresses, and writings not only as Pope but throughout his life as priest, professor, theologian and Bishop. Murphy then follows this spiritual joy as a common thread running through the writings of Joseph Ratzinger over many decades, and joy becomes the prism through which the Holy Father's thought is viewed comprehensively. Even apart from the value of citations that he gathers together – which by itself already constitute a real contribution - Murphy has masterfully synthesized the material. He has also made the theology of Joseph Ratzinger his own so as to be able to enter together with him into dialogue with the Sacred Scriptures, with the Fathers of the Church, and with various modern and post-modern authors, finding in the "private" theology of the present Holy Father a sure antidote to the listless. The same spirit of joy is shown every aspect of the Pope's thought regarding the Holy Trinity, the Church, the Eucharist, and eschatology, thus helping to account for the attractive power of his teaching to which the vast crowds at his Wednesday audiences now testify. Certainly the vast theological contribution of Joseph Ratzinger prior to his election to the Papacy must not be allowed to be forgotten now that the world knows him primarily as Pope Benedict XVI, and Msrg. Murphy has provided a great service by providing such a refreshing and interesting window into those writings, some of which were previously inaccessible to readers in the English language.”

From Slave to Priest

History & Biography

“From Slave to Priest is an inspiring account of the first Black Priest in the United States. Augustine Tolton was born a slave and perservered against all odds to attain his goal to be a Catholic Priest. While the Civil War ended slavery, it only began the struggle for racial equality. Tolton's fervent vocational commitment was constantly challenged by prejudice, but he also experienced strong support. His brief priestly ministry was marred by prejudice, yet showed the power of God by the acceptance of both black and white faithful. Tolton's perseverance in his vocational commitment is an inspiring lesson for us all.”