Christianus: The Christian Life

4.5/5 ( ratings)

During his lifetime, Abbot Vonier's greatest fame was as a speaker and homilist. Of all his writings, this collection brings us closest to the lively spirit of his sermons. The themes here are so simple that any Christian might profit from them, yet so profound as to touch the very depths of Catholic doctrine. Whether discussing discipleship or prayer, temptation or repentance, Christianus: The Christian Life constantly surprises with fresh insights, and shows that even familiar Catholic doctrines possess truths capable of endless depth and unfolding.

Full of light and life, this rich and deeply satisfying collection of essays is a perfect introduction for those new to Vonier's work, and a must-read for his admirers.

''This is muscular, penetrating, timeless writing. And like most great writing, it has the ability to tell you something you already know yet make it seem as though you are hearing it for the first time.''
- Mark Judge, writing in the Introduction

''Those seeking spiritual wisdom will find it here. Vonier was a master, and his work is as inspiring and fresh as ever.''
- Matthew Levering, author Jesus and the Demise of Death

''His aim in taking up his pen was a purely apostolic one -- that of opening men's eyes to the splendors of the Catholic faith.''
- Dom Ernst Graf, Abbot Vonier's biographer

''An inspired ability to explain the deepest theological truths with relative simplicity.''
- Fr. Mark Withoos

''Gifted in his capacity to write of sublime things in terms that all could understand.''
- The American Benedictine Review

''Turning new lights on old truths and making application of revelation to life, Abbot Vonier 'digs down into the meaning of Catholic dogma.' His thought is so simple, clear, and practical that no formal theological training is needed to follow him with profit and delight.''
- Fr. C.C. Martindale, SJ, quoted in Commonweal

''Abbot Vonier has a serious right to be considered one of the great Catholic theologians of the 20th century.''
- Fr. John Saward, author Sweet and Blessed Country: The Christian Hope for Heaven

''Christianus shows us Vonier's mature thought on Catholic doctrine.''
- Dom Leo Smith

''Abbot Vonier was the most gifted dogmatic theologian writing in England during his lifetime. The Vonier revival is a highly encouraging sign of the return of classical doctrine in the Church.''
- Aidan Nichols, author The Thought of Pope Benedict XVI: An Introduction to the Theology of Joseph Ratzinger