The Difference God Makes: A Catholic Vision of Faith, Communion, and Culture

by Francis E. George

Penned by the leading intellectual in the American Catholic hierarchy, this debut brings together some of the most influential writings on the Catholic vision—not just the Church itself but of the relation and unity of all people. Weaving together intellectual insight and personal wisdom, this investigation offers a luminous Catholic vision of communion, illustrating the Church’s relation to numerous religions as well as the secular world. Drawing from both the author’s observations of Catholicism in cultures around the globe and countless theologians’ perspectives—including Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, Thomas Aquinas, and Francis of Assisi—this analysis demonstrates how to recognize the self-giving, liberating God who provides freedom from the competitive, oppressive gods of secular modernity. This overview also recalls an assortment of fascinating stories, from a poignant moment with a non-Christian in Zambia to the humbling dedication of volunteers who came to observe Pope John Paul II’s visit to Mexico City. Confronting controversial issues head-on, this volume will inspire Christians everywhere while also offering non-Christians a renewed understanding of what a Christian lifestyle means for political and personal life today.

Genres: Catholic, Christianity, Theology, Nonfiction

368 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

His Eminence Francis Eugene Cardinal George, O.M.I., was an American cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church and Archbishop Emeritus of Chicago. He was the eighth Archbishop of Chicago (1997–2014) and previously served as Bishop of Yakima (1990–1996) and Archbishop of Portland, Oregon (1996–1997). He was the first native Chicagoan to serve as Archbishop of Chicago.

A member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, George was created a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1998. He served as president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2007 to 2010. In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Cardinal George to the Pontifical Council for the Study of the Organizational and Economic Problems of the Holy See.

He was initially diagnosed with cancer in 2006, and died from the disease in 2015.

Reviews

[Fr. Wirth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good read, however it is highly philosophical & theological in some parts which were over my head. This is just a testament to the intellectual brilliance of the late Cardinal.

[Jessie Sonnen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think all people should read this book, but especially Catholic politicians. This man knows what he is talking about.

[Sarah Yasin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written in a pedantic style, I noticed a lack of love in the author's words. I also wish the contentions were clearer - many questions were put forth, but I didn't quite get many answers. Maybe I'm not sharp enough to get it.

I got the feeling reading this that the author was tiptoeing soas not to hurt himself politically. Is that a horrible thing to say about a cardinal? I have a lot of love for priests, and I mean no malice toward the man. The book, however, was not something I would read again.

[Bethany]

I just can't do it. I started this book months ago in a flurry of ambition. I did like it initially and it's probably a great book, but I stalled out and have been meaning to go back to it forever but I'm JUST NOT GOING TO. I can't stand it staring at me on good reads (or my night stand). I'm giving up. I'm already 30. There are too many other books I want to read. Maybe I can take this up again in the future (ha).

[Tom Wascoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

In what is essentially a series of essays, George explores the relationship of the Catholic Church, and Christianity as a whole, as they relate to modern culture and the role belief in God plays in today's societies. While thought provoking, the book is written at a high level of reading capability and is somewhat complex in it's philosophical undertones. Difficult reading but worthwhile.

[Fred · Rating 5 out of 5]

With his vigorous and clear prose style, Cardinal George presents an incisive analysis of Catholicism in the American context.

[Conor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cardinal George's mind is both subtle and supple and this book of essays is clear evidence of that.