Sacramental Theology: Means of Grace, Way of Life

by Kurt Stasiak, Thomas P. Walters (Editor)

The Catholic understanding of the sacraments is presented in their relationship in the life of the Church. Learn more about sacraments at Loyola Press.

Genres: Catholic, Christianity, Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2001

Reviews

[Richard Grebenc · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good text for beginners to intermediate that provides a fine foundation for understanding the sacraments. Each chapter begins with "key questions" and ends with a summary and "For Reflection" questions. The text is appropriate for any educated and engaged person wanting to know more about the sacraments, but probably would work best with a moderator or group leader who is well-grounded in sacramental theology.

A chapter on the history of the sacraments is enlightening. Dedicated chapters to Baptism and Eucharist are followed by one chapter on the remaining sacraments. An appendix on infant baptism emphasizing its adoption aspect is well done. A short glossary is helpful but could be expanded. The author stresses that in all that's covered, the reader will want to go deeper and provides recommendations.

The thrust here, ultimately, is what difference the sacraments should make to the recipient's way of life. A thoughtful presentation that is a good supplement to deeper theological texts, but a great place to start.

[booklady · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for my DRE certification.

[Jenny Effinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction to the sacraments for anyone looking to enrich their understanding of the faith. Plenty of references to other avenues of research and further points of discussion, making this book a great text for beginners. Especially enjoyed the key questions sections, as I used this to help prep an outline for teaching. The text is also full of wise sayings and the author offers plenty of illustrations and examples to aid the reader.

[Benedict F. Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, finding it informative and interesting, providing insight to the traditions of sacramental practice and theology. We must keep up with the present and reflect on how the sacraments affect us in our understanding and practice or our Faith. Our traditions are alive and active. We must adapt them to face the present moment of those who seek to enter our Catholic Faith.

[Rose Langdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent writing to understand the Church

This review of the sacraments really helped me to have a deeper understanding of my Church. Knowing the historical perspective further enhanced my appreciation of participation in the sacraments.

[James Breen · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting account of the sacraments historically, as they are now, and their significance.

[Brian Reagan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tremendous book to help people, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, understand the nature of the traditional sacraments. The communication of what constitutes a sacrament, why the Catholic and Orthodox churches hold to seven, and specifically how graces are conferred by God through sacraments are at the heart of this book. Additionally these sacraments are considered in light of the different documents of the Second Vatican Council. All in all it is a good read to understand where Catholic theology is generically, and to begin to grasp where it is sacramentally. This book is also good for those of non-sacramental traditions to take a first step into sacramental theology, at least to understand it.

[Tom Willis · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm not sure why this book exists. Everything it says has already been written down in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, from which this book draws heavily. Just read the Catechism.

[Jules · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!!!! Explains what all the sacraments mean!

[Luvbono · Rating 3 out of 5]

Comfortable read.