The vows of religious life in a secular society : touching wholeness / Judith A. Merkle.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Merkle, Judith A., author.

Contributor:

Bloomsbury (Firm), publisher.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Monastic and religious life.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (208 pages)

Edition:

1st edition.

Place of Publication:

London : T&T Clark, 2025.

Summary:

This book investigates religious vows, shedding light on the type of faith that can sustain humanity in secular times. It examines the personal impact of religious life as well as its potential to foster a sense of completeness within society at large. Unbelief in today's society can be partially rooted in the shallowness of the sort of religion that the secular can abandon. Such a religion, characterized as magical, shallow, illusory, or rooted solely in external rituals, lacks the depth required to thrive in a secular society. It fails to address the profound aspects of human existence, the authentic freedom of the spirit, and the enduring obedience of faith. This study of religious vows uncovers their deeper meanings in light of these challenges. It invites us to consider whether religious life, despite contemporary criticisms, can be seen as "touching wholeness". This book does not only delve into the theological foundations of these vows but also key areas which impact their understanding and living in new contexts. It surveys sociological landscapes and goes beyond to encompass shifts in science, psychology, theology. Religious life in this sense is part of the renewal of the church, as well as an agent in it. By focusing briefly on each vow, Judtih A. Merkle illustrates how religious life serves as a bridge connecting the secular and the sacred. It is a life focused on love of God and service of others which is a witness to the coming of Kingdom of God, and values which truly matter in contemporary society.

Contents:

Introduction

Part 1 Foundations

Chapter 1

Touching Wholeness in an Age of Contingency

Chapter 2

Touching Wholeness in a World of Interrelationships

Chapter 3

Touching Wholeness in a Wounded World

Chapter 4

Touching Wholeness: The Path of Vows

Part 2 The Vows in a Secular Society

Chapter 5

Obedience: The Challenge of Autonomy and Plurality

Chapter 6

Poverty: The Challenge of Agency and Finitude

Chapter 7

Celibate Chastity: The Challenge of Singularity and the Other

Bibliography

Index

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

0-567-71591-4

0-567-71589-2

0-567-71590-6

OCLC:

1520506380