For his 2009 Lenten message, Pope Benedict XVI chose "the value and meaning of fasting" as the theme, observing that "this practice needs to be rediscovered and encouraged again in our day." In timely response, The Spirituality of Fasting draws on sources ancient and current-from Augustine to Michael Pollan-to consider anew how fasting informs the relationships between creator/creature, body/soul, and rich/poor.
Murphy's extensive theological background, pastoral experience, and personal devotion to his topic come through, inspiring readers to explore what it means to be fully engaged in worship through fasting.
Endorsements:
"The range and depth of this little book are impressive! Msgr. Charles Murphy presents a comprehensive history of fasting and offers a sound rationale for the need to revive this ancient practice. A must-read for any serious Christian and a wonderful resource for adult faith formation, small faith communities, or parish social justice committees."
Director of Religious Education
Archdiocese of Boston
"Msgr. Charles M. Murphy, an experienced pastor and theologian, takes a fresh look at the neglected Christian practice of fasting. Brilliant and readable . . . the book is a perfect example of retrieving an ancient Christian practice for modern people."
Dean, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry
" The Spirituality of Fasting articulates what St. Augustine meant when he wrote, "Longing deepens the heart." Religious fasting, devoted to prayer and charity, can "transform our total being, mind, body, and spirit," and can strengthen the Christian community. "
Emerita Professor of HistoricalTheology
The Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley
"For those of us seriously seeking to renew our spiritual lives, Msgr. Murphy's comprehensive book gives a deeply helpful understanding of the indispensable rediscovery of fasting as a pillar of our faith and an integral part of our lifelong quest for the Lord Jesus"
Author of The Faith We Profess
"This eloquent, historically enlightening, and practical guide to a Catholic and religious understanding of fasting motivates us to take a new look at an old virtue. Must reading for anyone serious about finding the only real food that can quench their hunger and thirst for God and for growing in compassion and greater charity."
Author of Catholics Going Green
"This reader-friendly text, sensitive to holistic emphases in contemporary spirituality, anchors in the Bible and the formative centuries of Christian life, a still valuable but now neglected practice. Msgr. Charles Murphy's treatment of fasting makes a very positive contribution toward shoring up the three traditional pillars of Judeo-Christian piety-prayer, fasting, works of charity-in harmonious relation to one another."
Author of Fasting Rediscovered
Preface ix
Introduction: The Loss of a Tradition 1
Chapter 1 Recovering a Tradition 13
Chapter 2 A Body Humble Before God: How Fasting Helps Heal Our Relationship with God 27
Chapter 3 A Body Fit for Resurrection: What the Ancient Ascetics Have to Teach Us 41
Chapter 4 A Body Beautifully Made: The Christian Notion of the Person and Fasting 51
Chapter 5 A Body Socially Responsible: How Fasting Grounds Our Solidarity with Others 67
Chapter 6 The Three Great Pillars of Piety as a Practical Program 83
Conclusion: Fasting and Feasting: The Spirituality of Fasting 101
Notes 107
Anonymous
Posted May 10, 2010
No text was provided for this review.
Overview
For his 2009 Lenten message, Pope Benedict XVI chose "the value and meaning of fasting" as the theme, observing that "this practice needs to be rediscovered and encouraged again in our day." In timely response, The Spirituality of Fasting draws on sources ancient and current-from Augustine to Michael Pollan-to consider anew how fasting informs the relationships between creator/creature, body/soul, and rich/poor.
Murphy's extensive theological ...