They Bore the Wounds of Christ: The Mystery of the Sacred Stigmata

by Mike Freze

Franciscan Michael Freze has put together an introductory primer for those interested in the study of mystical theology. He brings together the teachings of the Magisterium, Sacred Scripture, Doctors of the Church, and writings of the saints from the beginning of Christendom to the present era. Included in this work are: a lengthy discourse on the meaning of suffering, a brief history of Mariology, numerous extraordinary mystical gifts, biographies of twenty-five stigmatists, a comprehensive glossary, dozens of rare photographs and a two-part indexing system.

Genres: Religion, Catholic

350 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1989

Reviews

[Wallis]

Freze presents in-depth historical, biblical and scholarly analysis on the subject of sacred stimata, beginning with St. Francis of Assisi. Many photographs and documented evidence are presented as well.

It is quite compelling and a little overwhelming, but I think I was looking more for a secular book discussing how those with Stimata are discovered and their effect on their contemporaries. I was looking for more of "why". Maybe this just wasn't the discussion on the matter I expected or desired.

On the other hand, I spent several weeks literally pouring over it. And pondering the ideas. Maybe it means I should take another look, to think some more on this subject. There are so many answers to search for.