The Catholic Spiritual Journey: Responding to Today’s Challenges
by James J. Bacik
Who should read this?
Catholics who are seeking to navigate today’s complex realities in ways that engage the Catholic spiritual tradition, which in turn will bring deeper understanding and renewed perspectives. Further, anyone involved with catechetical/faith formation, including parents, clergy, catechists, and teachers, would find this book to be an invaluable tool.
What’s the main point?
James Bacik mines the riches of the Catholic spiritual tradition to shed light on modern experiences. To accomplish this, he draws upon elements of the Nicene Creed, the virtues, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the Beatitudes, celebrations (liturgical and secular), and various spiritual mentors (Mary of Nazareth, Thea Bowman, Dorothy Day, Jackie Robinson, to name just a few).
Is this book useful/practical?
A question for reflection and/or discussion is offered at the end of each section, which makes this book suitable for youth groups and adult faith-sharing groups. James Bacik is known for his accessible writing style and ability to clearly present what would otherwise be dense theological concepts. He offers theological perspectives for everyday living that readers will find beneficial.
Kudos.
I have read Bacik’s many books and articles since my young adulthood. I have been and continue to be profoundly shaped by his theological and spiritual insights, for which I am grateful. He is a trusted theologian who has a long-standing and unwavering commitment to Catholic faith formation and spiritual growth.
James J. Bacik. The Catholic Spiritual Journey: Responding to Today’s Challenges, Paulist Press, 2022, 183. ISBN 9780809156085
REVIEWER: Anne Koester
A first-generation college graduate, Anne Koester attended Bowling Green State University (BS, Education) and the University of Toledo College of Law (Doctor of Jurisprudence). She practiced as a trial lawyer in Toledo, primarily in the areas of products liability and complex tort litigation, before deciding to pursue theology studies at St. John’s University (MA, Theology), Collegeville, MN. After completing her Theology degree, Anne worked at the University of Notre Dame Center for Pastoral Liturgy. Anne came to Georgetown University to serve as the Associate Director of the Georgetown Center for Liturgy. She has also worked in the Division of Student Affairs and is currently on the staff of the Office of Compliance and Ethics. Anne is an adjunct member of the Theology & Religious Studies Department at Georgetown University, teaching courses in the areas of Catholic worship and Christian initiation. From 2004-2007, Anne served on the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Women in the Church and Society. She is a Member of the North American Academy of Liturgy (2002 – present; Christian Initiation Seminar member; Seminar Delegate and Member of the Academy Committee (January 2014 – 16)). Anne serves as the Coordinator of The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Process and co-facilitator of the Women Who Stay initiative at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Washington, DC. She was also a member of the Acquisitions Advisory Council, The Liturgical Press, Collegeville, MN (2009 – 2019).