The Practical Prophet: Pastoral Writings (Paperback)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Ken Untener (1937-2004), bishop of the diocese of Saginaw for 24 years, was a true pastor both a practical theologian and a prophet who, like the prophets of the Old Testament, sought to call his church back to its roots. A prolific and inspired author and speaker, his writings and talks spanned a wide variety of topics and concerns.

This book is the first compilation of a large selection of his briefer writings. It is organized into six topics: Vision and Creative Imagination, Liturgy and the Word, Ministry of Mercy, Consistent Ethic of Life, Ministry of Prophet, and The Wider Church). Each topic is introduced by Elizabeth Picken, CJ, of Bishop Ken's "Theology Squad."

This eagerly awaited book will appeal to anyone interested in the church's internal concerns and in how the church relates to issues concerning the wider world. It will be of particular interest to the many admirers of Bishop Untener, and will serve as a valuable reference for liturgists, preachers, pastors, students, and teachers of any of the topics addressed in the writings.

Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Paulist Press (January 5, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0809144298
• ISBN-13: 978-0809144297
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #607,832 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars His influence continues and grows, January 14, 2007

By	K. McCormick (Midland, Michigan) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Bishop Ken Untener left this life 3/27/2004. His gentleness of spirit and humbleness in life along with his wise words continue to inspire many, many Catholics and non-Catholics alike. As with so many who speak truth to power, his life and words also galvanize those who do not agree with his views. Read this beautiful book and let the words speak for themselves. If you appreciate the writings in this book, please visit the website for the Diocese of Saginaw which continues to publish a series of Little Books that contain daily meditations for each liturgical season in the church.

Here is a portion of a prayer which was attributed to assassinated Salvadoran Cardinal Oscar Romero but was actually never spoken by him. Instead, it was spoken by John Cardinal Dearden in 1979 and was drafted by Bishop Ken. These words, and those in this book, have truly planted seeds in the church and beyond which will continue to grow.

"It helps, now and then, to step back and take a long view.

The kingdom is not only beyond our efforts,
it is even beyond our vision.

We accomplish in our lifetime only a tiny fraction
of the magnificent enterprise that is God's work.
Nothing we do is complete, which is a way of saying
that the kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that could be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith.
No confession brings perfection.
No pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the church's mission.
No set of goals and objectives includes everything.

This is what we are about.
We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water seeds already planted,
knowing that they hold future promise.

We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces far beyond our capabilities."

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommended., May 11, 2007

By	Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

Catholic Bishop Ken Untener presents The Practical Prophet: Pastoral Writings, an anthology of inspirational and challenging essays especially for Christian ministers. The writings included are divided into the categories "Vision and Creative Imagination", "Liturgy and the Word", "Ministry of Mercy", "Consistent Ethic of Life", "Ministry of Prophet", and "The Wider Church". Each section is introduced by one of the author's trusted advisors. A plain-spoken tone, and a binding call to bring the church back to its roots form a solid common thread between diverse topics in this excellent and thought-provoking resource. The Practical Prophet is as timely and modern-thinking as it is spiritual, addressing serious present-day concerns as well as theological issues. "Day after day we read reports of past abuse by priests. This is the most agonizing experience I have ever had. It's not a thorn in my side. It's a sword in my soul. The pain comes from knowing that some youngsters have been hurt. The pain also comes from knowing that you have suffered as a member of the Catholic Church. It's on my mind every waking hour." Highly recommended.

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Practical Prophet, February 15, 2007

By	Christine Bouhanna "C. B. Bookworm" (Michigan) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This is an excellent book written by an outstanding person! Take the time to read it. It is very inspiring, and spoken from the heart to the heart.