Signs of Freedom: Theology of the Christian Sacraments [Paperback]

German Martinez (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 2004

Modern secular culture has severely eroded the religious foundations on which traditional sacramental practice was based. Built upon the sacramental bedrock, the very Christian identity and mission were affected. German Martinez looks at this challenge from the perspective of freedom as an opportunity to develop a sacramental worldview relevant to the new millennium. To this effect, he applies a series of methodologies and fresh pastoral approaches to the highly complex sacramental reality and to each individual sacrament. Beginning with ten key interpretative elements, he offers a coherent synthesis of the remarkable development of sacramental theology in our time.

Envisioned for both scholarly research and pastoral ministry, this book presents the key issues of a renewed sacramentality--rooted in ordinary life and celebrated in the liturgical mystery. This theology is grounded in a biblical, patristic, historical and theological background. It tries to articulate especially the Christological, ecclesial, individual and social aspects of the celebration of the sacraments as a dynamic and organic whole, emphasizing their spirituality.

The material is organized into four parts:

· the Sacramental Way of Life,
· the Initiation and Foundational Church,
· the Healing Church
· the Church at the service of Communion.

Highlights:
· scholarly, yet pastorally sensitive
· perfect text for courses on the sacraments
· solid, one-volume, comprehensive text

Editorial Reviews

Review

I recommend it wholeheartedly as a sure resource for both scholars and pastoral ministers. -- Prof. Michael G. Lawler, Creighton University, author Symbol and Sacrament: A Contemporary Sacramental Theology

Martinez' book will be helpful as a textbook both for scholarly research and pastoral ministry. -- Fr. Michael Kerrigan, CSP

This book provides a comprehensive look at Christian sacraments through the lens of the contemporary quest and struggle for freedom. -- Dr. Judith M. Kubicki, Fordham University

About the Author

German Martinez, who holds an S.T.D. degree from the University of St. Anselm in Rome, is associate professor of systematic theology and sacraments at the graduate school of religion and religious education of Fordham University, New York, and a priest. This is his fourth book.

Product Details

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Paulist Press (January 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0809141604
• ISBN-13: 978-0809141609
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.1 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #632,995 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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