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Strangers in a Strange Land: Living the Catholic Faith in a Post-Christian World Hardcover – February 21, 2017

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 615 ratings

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A vivid critique of American life today and a guide to how Christians―and particularly Catholics--can live their faith vigorously, and even with hope, in a post-Christian public square.

From Charles J. Chaput, author of
Living the Catholic Faith and Render unto Caesar comes Strangers in a Strange Land, a fresh, urgent, and ultimately hopeful treatise on the state of Catholicism and Christianity in the United States. America today is different in kind, not just in degree, from the past. And this new reality is unlikely to be reversed. The reasons include, but aren't limited to, economic changes that widen the gulf between rich and poor; problems in the content and execution of the education system; the decline of traditional religious belief among young people; the shift from organized religion among adults to unbelief or individualized spiritualities; changes in legal theory and erosion in respect for civil and natural law; significant demographic shifts; profound new patterns in sexual behavior and identity; the growth of federal power and its disregard for religious rights; the growing isolation and elitism of the leadership classes; and the decline of a sustaining sense of family and community.


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Editorial Reviews

Review

"Erudite and eloquent...his book should be read by serious-minded people of whatever religious, partisan or intellectual inclination."―The Wall Street Journal

"
Strangers in a Strange Land is a thought-provoking depiction of a complex contemporary scene. As he fills in his canvas, the author cites a wide variety of sources: magisterial documents and Church Fathers (especially Augustine), historical figures, contemporary ethicists and social scientists, and even poets. Yet throughout the book Chaput is much more than a cultural commentator; he is a pastor instructing souls. Although his message is challenging, the tone is always civil, conversational rather than controversial, and never preachy. In a non-academic way, with remarkable clarity and gentle wit, the author offers remedial lessons in Catholic morality and social doctrine for generations."―Catholic World Report

“Christians often disagree about how that hope shouldmanifest itself in our public and cultural engagements. Chaput’s book is aserious and thoughtful contribution to that crucial question….The argument of Strangers islevelheaded and well-researched. The book itself is an inspiring act of publicwitness by one of the American Church’s most prominent bishops. Crisplywritten, it is an accessible read in spite of the author’s learnedness.”
―PublicDiscourse

“The intellectual scope of Archbishop Chaput’s book isimpressive…“Strangers in a Strange Land” is a tour de force of scholarlythought on the development of Western society….For those concerned about thepresent and future of American society, “Strangers in a Strange Land” is amust-read that will leave you thinking and praying long after you’ve finishedit.”
―Denver Catholic
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"Readers of faith will find much to contemplate in Chaput’s well-argued examples of the state of Christian influence on American culture."―Publishers Weekly

"essential reading for all small-o orthodox Christians, not only Catholics."
―The American Conservative

"Many people have recently worked this same ground, but none more astutely and with such breadth of cultural reference. Chaput brings together some of the very best secular as well as religious thinking about our situation...the Archbishop of Philadelphia has plenty to say. Read him."
―TheCatholicThing.com

"[A]n invigorating new book"
Breitbart.com

"Chaput is an erudite writer, and his work includes a wide array of quotations and allusions. His observations on Western culture are keen, and while secular-minded readers will find plenty to argue with, his writing will appeal to a wide Christian audience. An optimistic account of the church's future in the midst of a secular age."
―Kirkus Reviews

"Well documented, with citations to a wide variety of sources in such areas as literature, philosophy, theology and politics, this book will appeal to traditionally oriented Catholics."
―Library Journal

“Archbishop Chaput is…an engaged thinker and writer, with agift for bringing his learning lightly to the page so that important andcomplicated topics are made clear and accessible.” ―FirstThings.com

“Archbishop Charles J. Chaput assesses with histypical clarity the bewildering situation for committed American Catholics…whatmakes Archbishop Chaput’s book unique is his approach as a pastor and teacherof the Faith.” ―
CatholicPhilly.com

"
a very careful, thoughtful, sound analysis of the landscape of our lives; it is much more than what is so frequently offered: highly charged, angry speculation."―Sooner Catholic

“This is an important book about the most important questions – who are we as Christians, and how do we live and love, work and create? How do we raise our families, educate our children and carry out our Christian mission? How do we serve God in this 'strange land' that now, too often, sees the Church, her teachings and her institutions as an enemy? A must-read for Catholics and anyone concerned for America's future.”―
Most Reverend José H. Gomez, Archbishop of Los Angeles

“At a time when many American Christians feel like 'strangers in a strange land,' one of the country's most courageous and respected prelates has given us much needed words of wisdom for the challenges ahead. This forward-looking guidebook should be on every Catholic's bookshelf.”―
Mary Ann Glendon, Former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See and Learned Hand Professor of Law at Harvard University

“Clear-eyed, courageous, unsentimental and driven by real hope, this prophetic book is not only for Catholics, but for all believers who wonder how we're going to get through the unprecedented challenges ahead.” ―
Rod Dreher, author of The Benedict Option and How Dante Can Save Your Life

“Archbishop Charles Chaput is the intellectual successor to Francis Cardinal George within the college of American bishops, and his latest book -- smart, incisive, crisply-written, witty, and inspiring -- shows why. Chaput trenchantly explores what the Church must be and how it must behave within the context of a post-Christian culture. Drawing on figures as diverse as Tocqueville, Newman, Benedict XVI, MacIntyre, and the ancient author of the
Letter to Diognetus, he argues, not that the Church should withdraw from the world, but that it should function as light and leaven within the world. I would warmly recommend this text to anyone interested in the play between faith and culture.” ―Most Reverend Robert Barron, author of Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith

“Pivotal and insightful, unsettling but hopeful, this book captures many of the challenges of following Jesus Christ at a time when his way, truth and life are obscured or deemed unattractive by modern forces. Like a physician who understands not only the pandemic but its cure, Chaput offers concrete ways Christians can heal and be healed by loving Christ and being a witness of his love in a troubled world.” ―
Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Knight, Knights of Columbus and author of A Civilization of Love

“In a shrewd look at postmodern confusions and obsessions, Chaput presents his readers with the challenge of living in harmony with the whole symphony of the Gospel's consequences. Echoing Paul's call to put on the whole armor of God and Augustine's description of the ordering of loves befitting the City of God, this book is a beckoning to paths of righteousness by a shepherd who clearly loves those in his care.” ―
Ken Myers, producer and host, Mars Hill Audio Journal

“. . . a bracing reflection on what the future holds for Christians living in a modern world increasingly cold to their beliefs. Studded with observations from some of the most provocative thinkers of the past century,
Strangers in a Strange Land explores the complex trajectory of American political and social thought. With 'going along to get along' no longer an option, Chaput challenges us to ask ourselves: Do we really believe in God or not? Are we really on fire with a love for Jesus Christ or not? For the author, living the truth with hope and joy is our one sure path forward.” ―Greg Erlandson, editor in chief of Catholic News Service

"Every believer in a position of authority over other citizens needs to read
Strangers in a Strange Land, but so too does every Christian who is wondering what is happening and, crucially, how they ought to live in this new world . . . This is the real deal, the book you need for 2017 and far beyond. There are many reasons why Archbishop Chaput is beloved by Catholics of all political positions and stations and why his intellectual leadership has been tasked again by both Popes Benedict and Francis, and this book underscores why. Read it. Buy it for your friends. Urge it on your small groups. It is the book for this moment in America. “―Hugh Hewitt, author, professor of law and radio host

"For those looking for guidance on how to quit whining and to live in the next America, Archbishop Chaput nails it." ―
Alan E. Sears, President and General Counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom

“Archbishop Chaput’s compelling book makes clear that the struggle for Church freedom is not just about our legal rights, but is ‘a much greater effort to defend the truth of the human being, and to speak the truth about what our present sexual and social revolution portends.’ He offers both a clear diagnosis of our country’s challenges and a powerful inspiration for Catholics to follow the path to the City of God.” ―
William Mumma, President of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty

“What do we do now? We're blessed to have Archbishop Chaput's answer in this timely and essential book.” ―
Gerard V. Bradley, Professor of Law at the University of Notre Dame

About the Author

Archbishop Emeritus Charles J. Chaput, OFM Cap., was named archbishop of Philadelphia in 2011 by Pope Benedict XVI. As a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, he was the second Native American to be ordained a bishop in the United States and is the first Native American archbishop. Chaput is the author of Strangers in a Strange Land, Living the Catholic Faith, and Render unto Caesar, as well as numerous articles and public talks. Retiring as archbishop emeritus in 2020, he continues his extensive writing and public speaking.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Henry Holt and Co. (February 21, 2017)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 288 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1627796746
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1627796743
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 13.6 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.87 x 1.05 x 8.52 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 615 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
615 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the book insightful, authentically accurate, and excellent. They also describe the reading experience as excellent and hard to put down. Readers also say the tone is inspiring and challenging. They describe the book as a wonderful guidebook for all Catholics.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

73 customers mention "Insightfulness"73 positive0 negative

Customers find the book insightful, clear, and sober. They say it provides a direction for practicing Catholics. They also say the author is informed, knowledgeable, courageous, and vocal. Readers also mention that the book contains biblical wisdom, rich lessons, and serious consideration of contemporary culture. They find the discussion in the book rational and organized.

"Archbishop Chaput's book is an extremely well researched addition to the current debates about how faithful Christians can navigate the world today...." Read more

"...He reminds me of the bishops of the Early Church. He's informed. He's knowledgeable. He's courageous. He's vocal. He's a great writer. He's a leader...." Read more

"His Grace Archbishop Charles Chaput has written a sobering and pragmatic perspective on the Catholic faith in our country...." Read more

"...The book also provides a direction for all of us practicing Catholics to follow in this society...." Read more

49 customers mention "Reading experience"49 positive0 negative

Customers find the book excellent, worth the time and effort, and a good read on the current trajectory of our common culture. They also say the final four chapters are compelling and hopeful.

"...But this is an important book and I hope that it is widely read. There are no grand policy proposals and no letter writing campaigns in this book...." Read more

"...I found it to be a good read, and a source for getting grounded...." Read more

"Archbishop Chaput is extremely well read and very insightful of our culture today. The book has two sections to it...." Read more

"...fact, along with the sketch of how we move forward, is worth the time and effort for those who have any interest in the place of faith in the public..." Read more

42 customers mention "Readability"39 positive3 negative

Customers find the book very well written, clear, and thought provoking. They also appreciate the excellent quotes and the author's courage and vocality.

"...The sentences of the book are clear and profound: "We are born for the City of God. The road home leads through the City of Man...." Read more

"...He's informed. He's knowledgeable. He's courageous. He's vocal. He's a great writer. He's a leader. He challenges...." Read more

"...This book is extremely readable and I believe should be required reading for anyone in parish ministry today and any Catholic who has even the..." Read more

"Chaput's writing style is brisk, succinct and filled with pithy one-liners. For instance:Biology is raw material...." Read more

37 customers mention "Tone"37 positive0 negative

Customers find the tone of the book inspiring, challenging, and wonderful for Catholics. They also say the explanations offer hope with solutions.

"...The sentences of the book are clear and profound: "We are born for the City of God. The road home leads through the City of Man...." Read more

"...He's courageous. He's vocal. He's a great writer. He's a leader. He challenges...." Read more

"This book provides hope to practicing Catholics and other Christians that our beliefs and traditions are in fact correct in a society that has..." Read more

"...This has been a life changing book for me, I would suggest you purchase it and reflect on it, if you do I am sure that it will be especially..." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

Reviewed in the United States on May 30, 2017
Archbishop Chaput's book is an extremely well researched addition to the current debates about how faithful Christians can navigate the world today. The first two thirds of the book lay out the gradual and relentless emergence of a post-Christian world in the West. The problems are presented in an unvarnished and comprehensive manner. The last third of the book details Chaput's remedy, which essentially comes down to an increase in personal piety and fearless engagement with the culture. The sentences of the book are clear and profound: "We are born for the City of God. The road home leads through the City of Man. So we are strangers in a strange land, yes. But what we do here makes all the difference." Would that we got a clarion call like that every Sunday at Church.

A couple of thoughts on the structure of the book. The book actually reads like two books: the first portion that details all the problems and the last that details the solutions. There is little actual connection between the two. Both are excellent, but they could stand on their own.

The book is also very current, and almost Chestertonian in it's approach. As an example, there is discussion of Saul Alinsky along with veiled references to recent governmental action. In 2017, it's obvious enough that Chaput is referring to President Obama's community organizer past and the Alinsky-like approach he took to many of his policy objectives while in office, but I wonder if people in 10 years will get that connection. I believe this is an important book, but it will become less accessible unless a "companion" book or "annotated" version comes out soon.

But this is an important book and I hope that it is widely read. There are no grand policy proposals and no letter writing campaigns in this book. instead the focus is on improving your own corner of the world: personal holiness, personal care for the poor and needy, a caring home life, good neighborhoods, community life in your neighborhood and your parish. We can all do it.
3 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on March 25, 2017
I think Archbishop Chaput is probably one of the most outspoken bishops in the Church today. For me, he stands out as one who takes his position ever so seriously. He's the Teacher he's called to be by his Ordination. I look at him as the most influential American bishop. He reminds me of the bishops of the Early Church. He's informed. He's knowledgeable. He's courageous. He's vocal. He's a great writer. He's a leader. He challenges. He has, as Pope Francis described, "the smell of his sheep!" With this combination he knows how to live himself and to guide others, to guide the Church--and guide he does. This book is an example of that. He is aware of the world in which the Church exists and Christians must live. He is able to look at the difficulties on all fronts and to call Christians to then live on all fronts. To take just one example from the book, I see him as the only bishop I know to have addressed the subject of Saul Alinsky, to see the effect he has had, and to tackle the whole notion of his  Rules for Radicals: A Practical Primer for Realistic Radicals  (originally having a dedication to Lucifer) and the twisted philosophy of which has crept into our society, government, and politics at the highest levels.

One criticism that I have, as I have of so many good Catholic books, is that it is not available as an audiobook and the author does not offer a Kindle version with a Matchbook price or with Audible Narration. These days, everyone doesn't read books the same way--so I believe it is best to offer a book today in as many formats as possible. For instance, because of circumstances, travel being one, some of us can devour audiobooks (even now with Kindle) many times faster than the traditional handheld paper ones.
6 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2017
His Grace Archbishop Charles Chaput has written a sobering and pragmatic perspective on the Catholic faith in our country. He provides a perspective on how we got to where we are and what we need to do next. I wish I could say our experience in our parish or archdiocese s different than the one he describes, yet the reality is, he is spot on with his observations. This book is extremely readable and I believe should be required reading for anyone in parish ministry today and any Catholic who has even the slightest concern about where the Church in our country is going. Avoiding the issues or keeping our eyes closed are tantamount to what His Eminence Cardinal Robert Sarah calls the "Apostasy of Silence." Recently, we developed a retreat for Deacons and Wives entitled "Diakonia: Serving as Deacons in Today's Church." This book was a highly recommended pre-reading assignment.

If I there is one thing I believe His Grace Archbishop Chaput did not address as much as I personally would have liked is our youth. It is not just Hispanics and others who are the future of our Church here in the United States, but also our youth. How many more generations of young people can we afford to lose? However, while this is my personal opinion, it does not diminish the insights His Grace brings to the light. Bravo for the courage to be candid and not sugar-coated.

Edward Kleinguetl, Deacon, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
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Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2017
This book provides hope to practicing Catholics and other Christians that our beliefs and traditions are in fact correct in a society that has essentially gone mad. The book also provides a direction for all of us practicing Catholics to follow in this society. On a side note, the author is very conservative, and can get on his stoop on certain issues, one in which I agree with his position is abortion. And, I don't understand how any practicing Catholic can condone the murder of innocent babies in the womb. I do appreciate that Archbishop Chaput wrote this book. I found it to be a good read, and a source for getting grounded. Many of the topics that he discusses are heard in the sermons at Sunday masses, and it is good to see the consistency.
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Top reviews from other countries

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L. Delmas
5.0 out of 5 stars A very thoughtful and well written book that sets out ...
Reviewed in Canada on September 16, 2017
A very thoughtful and well written book that sets out the origins and effects of the harmful ideas that are causing so much harm to our society.
One person found this helpful
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Paula Rigues
5.0 out of 5 stars Strangers in a strange land
Reviewed in Spain on March 27, 2018
Es un extenso ensayo bien documentado y minucioso sobre la evolución de la sociedad estadounidense en la que la religión era vivida y compartida por sus habitantes. Hoy todo está cambiando y vivir la fe es un gran reto en esa sociedad llamada " sin Dios" por algunos pensadores. Todo lo expuesto aquí es totalmente aplicable a Europa
Fr Adrian G. Head
5.0 out of 5 stars Seeing the wood beyond the conglomeration of trees
Reviewed in Australia on July 14, 2017
Most people see only the problems. But some see further. They see the realities, the causes, and the methods needed to fix the problems. Archbishop Chaput is one of those. His insights are extremely helpful for those who could lose hope because of all the problems.
R Irwin
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
Reviewed in Canada on December 4, 2017
A great book.
JAVIER DE CENDRA DE LARRAGÁN
5.0 out of 5 stars Strangers in a strange land: living the Catholic Faith in a Post-Christian World
Reviewed in Spain on April 4, 2017
This is an inspiring book, a well written and well argued call for action to american christians not just to resist challenging times but actually to renew through their example the genius of their nation. And, while written mainly for american readers, it is also most relevant to European ones.