1 comments about The Gospel of Cesar Chavez: My Faith in Action (Celebrating Faith).

1. Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (9/07)
   
   In his introduction to "The Gospel of Cesar Chavez" Mario T. Garcia profiles the events in the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez. His intent in this manuscript was to produce a book of the spiritual reflections of Chavez which would inspire the reader to reflect themselves on the topics covered in relation to their own spirituality.
   
   Within the pages of the introduction Garcia has provided insight into the influences that most impacted the character -- virtue, theology, philosophy, and political views of Chavez. Among those who had a profound influence on Cesar's life was Father Donald McDonnell, the writings of St. Francis of Assisi, and the teachings of Gandhi. From these men Chavez took a stance on nonviolence and the importance of sacrificing for others. Another man who was a key influence on Cesar's life was Fred Ross, a community leader for Industrial Areas Foundation.
   
   In his crusade against the injustice of the migrant farm worker Chavez organized the people for effectiveness in strikes and boycotts. In 1968 the well-publicized Grape Boycott which lasted two years took on the moral nature of Cesar's crusades. In a 25-day march from Delano, California to Sacramento Chavez was drawing attention to the need for social justice.
   
   Chavez had a keen awareness of the power of mass media. At the end of a 25-day fast, Cesar invited Bobby Kennedy to receive communion with him.
   
   The 17 chapters of reflections of Cesar Chavez are drawn from countless newspaper articles, interviews, editorials, and various studies completed earlier on the life of Chavez. Garcia chose those reflections that revealed Cesar's spiritual training, his thoughts on the power of faith, human dignity, self-sacrifice, and the poor.
   
   Garcia also included Cesar's views on social justice, non-violence, and the teachings of Gandhi. Individual chapters divulge his view of a pilgrimage, his thoughts on fasting, prayer, and meditation. The final chapters explore the spirituality of antiracism, ecumenism, brotherhood, and the spirituality of non-discrimination.
   
   In recent years I have understood more fully the plight of the farm worker, and the discrimination against various ethnic groups. Reading "The Gospel of Cesar Chavez" has given me a new appreciation of the dedication, and sacrifice Chavez made in his crusade to correct this injustice.
   
   Garcia's work is meticulously researched and documented and provides a wealth of information on the motivation behind the amazing results and effectiveness of Cesar Chavez's leadership.
   
   "The Gospel of Cesar Chavez" is a book, not only for academics, but for the general public, of all backgrounds, seeking spiritual guidance. Mario T. Garcia has successfully provided a model for faith in action through the life and Gospel of Cesar Chavez.

No comments about The Life Of St. Anthony.

5 comments about It's Like That: A Spiritual Memoir.

1. I didn't know much about Run until reading this memoir. He let's you know that all your dreams can come true, and that you have to help God help you. He tells how the group was up one day and down the next, and that you should always have a backup plan. This book is for anyone who needs encouragement through any circumstances.



2. I could not put this extraordinary book down because it is filled with Universal Laws to improve the quality of life. I did not know what to expect when I selected this book, but I have been pleasantly reminded by someone whose career and life has gone through life's changes about God's goodness. Rev. Run did an excellent job of putting these spiritual truths in a manner that can be followed easily to change the tides of one's fortunes.

   This was an excellent piece that won't be soon forgotten.




3. RUN-DMC were truly the movers and shakers of the rap industry during the 1980's. Then suddenly, their fame slipped through the hands like grains of sand. Joseph Simmons (RUN) was a victim of his own fame and success. Thank goodness he was able to find help by way of religion and now see himself as a spiritual to help other young artist see through his mistakes.



4. I thought this book was a great book to read. I myself have been a Run DMC fan since i was like 8. Im 18 now. They influenced me so much and They should be on the walk of fame not to mention on the next grammys to except alot off awards for the work they have done. As far as the book. I thought it told it all. Its a very good book and i give it five stars.



5. I found this book to be a very accurate and down-to-earth account of Rev. Run's life. I have always been a big fan of Run D.M.C.'s music, and I was always curious about the man behind the music. Although Rev. Run seems to have fallen on hard times, his faith in God and how he shares it with us in this book should be applauded and shows that God will bring you back from anywhere. I also found that the self-help tips keep it real. I believe this book is a hip-hop jewel.

1 comments about Great Women of the Bible in Art And Literature.

1. Benefitting from the professional art direction of Anne-Marie Schniper and an informative Foreword by herbert Haag, "Great Women Of The Bible In Art And Literature" by Dorothee Soelle (Professor of Theology, Union Theological Seminary, New York City) and historian Joe H. Kirchberger, offers and showcases biographical synopsis of the stories of the eleven women named in the bible, and one referred to only as the 'Woman with the Ointment', as represented in literature and art over the centuries. The women include Eve and Lilith (Adam's first wife referred to in Judaic commentaries on the Torah), Sara and Hagar, Tamar, Ruth the Moabit, Abigail, Judith, Esther, Mary and Martha, and Mary of Magdala. Enhanced with a bibliography, and a listing of literary sources, "Great Women Of The Bible In Art And Literature" offers an informed and informative text based upon biblical and non-biblical sources, along with superb paintings and visual images - perhaps the most unusual of which is a depiction of Lilith taken from a Persian amulet. A simply beautiful book from beginning to end, "Great Women Of The Bible In Art And Literature" is especially recommended for personal, church, seminary, and academic library collections - and would make an especially appropriate selection as a community library "Memorial Fund" acquisition.

1 comments about Four Times Peter: Portrayals of Peter in the Four Gospels And at Philippi (Interfaces series).

1. Written by Professor of Sacred Scripture Richard J. Cassidy, Four Times Peter: Portrayals of Peter in the Four Gospels and at Philippi is a scholarly text studying the role of Peter in the Gospels of Mark, Luke, Matthew, and John. Chapters discuss aspects of narrative criticism in the four Gospels, Peter during the time of Jesus' public ministry, Peter and the risen Jesus, the reception of the four Gospels at Philippi, and much more. [Regarding 16:1-8] "Within the dynamic of Mark's narrative the fearful astonishment that the women of the tomb initially manifest is not a sufficient obstacle to prevent the promised reunion from being accomplished. Jesus and the heavenly messenger have both predicted a future for Peter and the disciples in Galilee, and the consistency of Mark's narrative regarding the fulfillment of Jesus' internal predictions argues that this external prediction will also soon come to pass." An excellent text for intermediate to advanced courses on the Gospels and parish study programs.

2 comments about Teresa of Avila: Selections from The Interior Castle (HarperCollins Spiritual Classics).

1. Saint Teresa of Avila's spiritual insight is remarkable. Anyone who has read her work with reverence knows this.
   
   I take particular exception to the Foreword to this edition of her work, though. Patricia Hampl seems to think it would be helpful to reiterate our 20th and 21st-century biases before we plunge into the interior world of Teresa. Her foreword is rife with irrelevant political commentary, to say nothing of its banal syncretism, a predictably dialectical approach to orthodoxy and freedom in traditional Christianity and a downright daft approach to the history of Teresa's time.
   
   Dallas Willard, at the very least, has the good sense to remind the reader in his Introduction that this is a specifically Christian mystical text. However, he, perhaps unintentionally, sets up Teresa's work as something truly exceptional within the tradition. Far from it! Teresa is genuinely representative of an age when Christian mysticism was still rooted firmly in contemplative and sacramental piety. Contrary to Willard's observation on the rarity of Teresa's spiritual depth, Christian tradition has produced a treasure trove of mystical literature, of which Teresa's work is just one sparkling jewel.
   
   These ostensibly silly commentaries mar the spiritual beauty of a woman who actually has something profound to say, and so I can't give the HarperCollins edition of Interior Castle five stars. The publisher would do well to find more qualified commentators.



2. Teresa of Avila is one of the more remarkable figures in the history of Christianity. Living in a perilous time, when the Roman Catholic church was suspicious of anything that might develop into Protestant heresies and schisms, she walked a fine line between obedience to the political structure and obedience to God. It is often the case that mystics and spiritual giants are at odds with church structures of the day (this is rather ecumenical, reaching across Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant lines).
   
   Teresa lived at time shortly after the explusion of the Jews from Spain (which occurred in 1492). Her own family was a converso family; hence, there were different dimensions to the wariness of the powers in the culture toward her activities. Being a woman at the time didn't help matters, either, as she defied the stereotypes in several ways, by seeking education and leadership opportunities, all the while being part of the discalced Carmelites, who strive to cultivate humility and poverty.
   
   Teresa's life was not an easy one; she suffered physical ailments and political difficulties. However, she was also a sought-after advisor, spiritual leader, and fairly prolific author. Her various writings made her famous in her own day, but the towering achievement that has lasted over time is without doubt 'Interior Castle'. This text shows a spiritual journey on the inside, developing different walks through aspects of spiritual life and prayer developed in seven stages, or mansions.
   
   The life of prayer is the castle, with seven stages of development. The first three stages are pieces that humankind can practice with their own efforts; the final four stages are those which are given from God, and God alone - no human effort can reach these places. The first mansion looks to the striving toward perfection of the human soul. The second looks to different pieces that give spiritual edification; sermons, readings, prayer practices, conversation, etc. The third mansion sets forth discipline and penance, striving toward good works while reaching for self-surrender. These are not easy stages, but are within the realm of human possibility.
   
   The fourth mansion begins the mystical journey in earnest at the behest of God. Here Teresa uses a metaphor of water and a fountain to explain the soul, and explores graces as spiritual consolations. Here is the Prayer of Quiet. The fifth mansion continues the theme of water, looking toward a Prayer of Union, which leads naturally to the sixth mansion, where the soul is prepared for a marriage of sorts, as intimacy with God increases in the soul. The seventh and final, most interior mansion, which is heaven itself; metaphors here used include two candles joining as one, and the falling rain merging to become one with the river.
   
   These mansions are based on visions; Teresa was compelled to write them down at the order of her ecclesiastical superiors, for she herself thought to keep them to herself. Her writing was done very late in her life, but even so, she took care to be humble and as non-threatening as possible; modern readers might be a bit taken aback by the self-deprecation of Teresa, and the general stance she seems to take towards women. This may have been an attempt to make an authoritative text written by a woman more acceptable to the male-dominated hierarchy of the time. However, not all of Teresa's humility should be dismissed or argued away in this manner. She is reputed to have said, 'There are more than enough books on prayer already,' in response to being told to write her visions. This might have been true (then and now), but few reach the power that Teresa's 'Interior Castle' achieve.
   
   This book of selections is perhaps less intimidating than the unfiltered text (one of the better translations for English-speaking audiences is by Peers; an interesting re-cast is done by Mirabai Starr) - the selections here come from a translation done by the Paulist Press, and so will make pieces familiar for those who want to continue with their work with Teresa in greater depth.

2 comments about Meeting God Behind Enemy Lines.

1. Steve Watkins' book is fascinating. I couldn't put it down! Ninety percent of the book goes into great detail regarding the training he received (endured?)to become a certified U.S. Navy SEAL, including "Hell Week," as well as various SEALs missions and the part he and his team played in the Gulf War. Steve is the "real thing" folks! He is very up-front and honest about his salvation experience; however, this book is more about SEALs than Christianity. Actually, I was hoping for more of a balance between the two in the book. Hopefully, he will write another book bringing his readers up-to-date as regards his life after military service. For devotees of Suzanne Brockmann and Dee Henderson U.S. Navy SEALs books, Steve's book is a must-read. Any person who desires to enter the U.S. Navy SEALs program should first read Steve's book to get a complete understanding of the training involved to become a SEAL. I recommend this book highly if you are looking for a "good read."



2. Written in an easy to read style, this book will be difficult to put down once you pick it up. Watkins' story begins with his desire to enter the armed services' special forces as a child and continues through the unbelievable challenges and struggles it took to get to the top. The descriptions of the torturous journey through the long period of training and especially of the grueling "hell week" are vivid and thrilling. It is very rare to get a good glimpse into the world of the Navy SEALS and this book offers many insights that are accurate and truthful from an insider's perspective. Watkins was also privileged to have a leading and pivotal role in the start of the Gulf War and offers insights into the difficult and important mission that began the war. The book ends with a compelling, compassionate and truthful presentation of the saving message of the Bible, the truth of Jesus Christ which turned Watkins' life around and gave him meaning and purpose and especially the forgiveness of his sin. Though this book will be enjoyed by everyone who picks it up, it would really be a perfect gift for a young person interested in the military's special forces.

1 comments about Martin Luther (Men of Faith).

1. This is a dramatised overview of the great German reformer's life. Indeed it is a very good start for the reader to come to an understanding of Luther and his contemporaries.

   Read about his frightened childhood, education, escape from Ausburg, the Leipzig debate and the famous Diet of Worms. We are firmly placed into the very era that the book is set in for there is plenty of historical information regarding some of the well known artists such as Da Vinci, Raphael and Michaelangelo. On lending this book to young people, it is good that they can learn for the first time that these people were artists of Luther's time, and not just characters in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

2 comments about Jonathan Goforth (Men of Faith).

1. I'd say that Jonathan Goforth is someone worth learning about. His desire to reach the lost in China is inspiring. One striking moment to me was when his wife was afraid of going into a certain area with the children because of various illnesses they might catch. Jonathan essentially told her that he was convinced it was God's will, and the safest place to be was where He wanted them to be.
   
   However, I don't care for this particular biography. It's written by his wife, who knew him better than anyone else, but she's not a particularly skilled writer. One annoying thing is that she couldn't decide how to refer to herself. Sometimes she'd speak in the first person with "I" and "me," and other time in the third person using "Goforth's wife" or something smiliar. Often she'd switch back and forth between the two within the same "scene." It was a bit confusing and very distracting, and something an editor should have fixed! There were no other glaring problems, but the writing was only fair. It'd be nice to hear the story of Jonathan Goforth told by a skilled writer.
   
   I'd recommend a biography on Jonathan Goforth, and if you can't find another one, get this one. But, if you see a well-rated biography of Goforth from another source, then I'd give it a try instead. That's what I plan to do.



2. This book tells the story of Jonathan Goforth, missionary to China.

   Jonathan adopted the dress and style of the Chinese people in order to relate. His devotion to God and to the Chinese people is a challenge to anyone wishing to impact others with the love of Christ.

5 comments about The Sun and Moon over Assisi: A Personal Encounter With Francis and Clare.

1. I randomly got hold of this book from our church library & checked it out
   for 3 weeks. After I got started reading it, I could not stop! This book is the next best thing to reading the Passion of Christ. I am now in the
   middle of reading it the second time. I love the book so much I ordered my
   own copy to keep & to share with friends. I would like to thank the author
   for this awesome accomplishment. More power to you, Mr Gerard Thomas Straub! May your tribe increase!!



2. Much can be said about the quality of this book. Straub weaves together his spiritual journey and the stories of Francis, Clare, and the city of Assisi to produce a very readable, engaging, and inspiring work. Although somewhat long, there is much wisdom within its pages. Having read The Sun and Moon over Assisi, I am motivated to follow Francis' example in living out Christ's gospel.



3. This is an incredible book of one man's journey from Catholicism to atheism back home to Catholicism. Although I was not Catholic myself, I enjoyed the ride immensely. He has so much to offer Christians of all kinds. There is much to meditate on and he beautifully and accurately describes the places where Francis and Clare lived/ministered. I have bought copies for friends and will continue to do so. I will read this book again and again. It is a wonderful study and well worth the time. It took me quite a while to read it because I was savouring each chapter. Highly recommend!!!



4. I love this book and, in fact, I'm buying copies to give to friends. The story of the ongoing conversion of the author is an example of the journey of any seeker of God: great awakenings, stumbles, doubts, reassurances, understanding.
   The first portion of the book is compelling and hard to put aside. The other chapters, however, are so rich with material from additional sources that I found them best to meditate on, think of as you live your life, and then dip into once again. This is perfect as a devotional for the liturgical seasons of advent and lent.



5. When I pick up a book on spirituality, that is nearly 600 pages long, I find myself flipping back and forth, counting the number of pages I still have to read (yawn). Having admitted that, I will add that "religion" is probably my first choice when searching for new books. Conversely with this book, I found myself counting the pages to see how many pages were left, because I didn't want it to end. Straub takes us along on his spiritual pilgrimage. In his "Thoughts Scribbled While walking," we can almost chart his spiritual growth (like an ascending line on graph paper). This book will inspire you to follow his lead by pursuing a deeper relationship with God. I was skeptical upon reading his background as a TV/soap writer, but I found it (along with his honesty and humility),to lend credibility to his personal transformation . I have never read a book that inspired me to write the author to tell him how much his writing touched me. This is one author I would like to thank.

   This is a book to be savored. As a resident of Southern California, I found his personal observations on the cultural values of Americans right on target. It's too bad this book may never make the N.Y. Times Best Sellers' List, it could change the world.