Customer Reviews

Forgotten Catholic Heroes

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I liked this book a great deal for five reasons. First, I love reading Butler's lives of the saints, and always wished that there were stories that were historically accurate and spiritually encouraging that went beyond the straight hagiographical nature of Butler. This book does that. While this book, to me, is more geared toward teenagers, as an adult I have been very moved and engaged by them. I liked learning about the general history of the various eras while I was being edified. Second, I appreciate the way that the author does not sugar coat the historical context. There were bad bishops, bad priests, just like now. Too often devotional books overlook that fact, weakening their credibility. Third, while not exactly a polemical piece, as a non-Roman Catholic I did feel that Genin was trying to show that some of the myths about the RCC, owing to `Romophobia', were flat out wrong. In that attempt I feel he has succeeded, which I appreciate. Fourth, the author covers some religious movements that I was just unaware of, like the Mercedarians, who would sacrifice their own freedom to liberate Christians held captive by Muslims. Fifth, the stories are short enough to read in one brief sitting and then just think about throughout the day or evening, making this quite a piece f devotional literature.

It's a great book and I would hope that more would follow.

Engaging, timeless stories that bring to life holy men and women willing to give their lives to practice their faith. Perfect reading level for young adults, or younger children with adult guidance. Ideal for discussion with those of an age where going to church, at times, may feel more like a burden than a privilege. Learning how others willing gave their lives for their faith, should stengthen an appreciation for privileges often taken for granted today. Could be used for book club reading for a church youth group - read a chapter and discuss. Adults can also learn from these tales. Could we, with God's grace, face similar challenges with such bravery? What challenges to our faith do we face today, not nearly as threatening as the gallows, and how do we respond . . .

I used this book to help educate my son about Catholic heroes that the world has forgotten,while it bandies about anti-Catholic stories.