Catholicism at the Crossroads

by Paul Lakeland

Book Overview

Try to define a layperson without using the word not: cannot preach or say mass, is not a priest, is not in a position of leadership in the church. This generally negative or passive understanding of the laity was epitomized in a statement of Pope Pius X: "The one duty of the multitude i.e., the laity] is to allow themselves to be led and, like a docile fl ock, to follow the Pastors." The Second Vatican Council, with...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 082642810X
• ISBN13: 9780826428103
• Release Date: April 2007
• Publisher: Continuum
• Length: 176 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.6" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Mission inherent in Baptism

An excellent read and wake-up notice for Catholics who consider it the sole responsibility of the ordained clergy to carry out the mission of the church to the world. Lakeland clearly makes the case that the laity, by virtue of their baptism, are charged with the responsibility of being the "eyes, ears and hands of God" in the world, according to their God-given talents. Only in this way can the church be the living, life-giving organism it is intended to be.

If only US Bishops would read this book!

We are reading and discussing this book in our VOTF Affiliate We particularly love Mr. Lakeland's vision of the Church modeled on the Trinity where all: Laity, Priests and Bishops, have different but equal relationships to God and each other. We serve our communities in different capacities, empathize on service not authority and power. We the laity are not children, and should not be "infantilized". This is a hopeful, nurturing book for those discouraged by the rampant clericalism in the Roman Catholic Church. This book will be enjoyed by Vatican II Catholics.

Fine Analysis

This book gave a good description and analysis of the role of the laity in the church today; as well as several helpful points to further develop their growing involvement as ministers in the 21st century. I would strongly recommend "Catholicism At The Crossroads" be read by anyone interested in furthering the dialogue and conversation regarding the mission of today's Church.