Unchanging Heart of the Priesthood

by Thomas Acklin

In The Unchanging Heart of the Priesthood, Father Thomas Acklin presents an apologetic for that which is immutable—that which cannot change since it is found in the unchanging heart of Christ. Father Acklin refutes modern misconceptions and false understandings of the priesthood, while uncovering the beauty, strength, and hope that is found in God’s plan. This book will encourage the heart of every priest and help the laity to understand and appreciate the reality and mystery of the priesthood in the Church. In The Unchanging Heart of the Priesthood Father Thomas Acklin presents an apologetic for the immutability of the priesthood—that which cannot change since it is found in the unchanging heart of Christ. Father Acklin refutes modern misconceptions, while uncovering the beauty, strength, and hope that is found in God’s plan, bringing the reader to an appreciation of the reality and mystery of the priesthood in the Church.

Genres: Religion, Theology

228 pages, Paperback

First published January 2, 2006

Reviews

[Damien Rappuhn · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent look at the priesthood that answers the challenges against celibacy as a psychological-sexual function of the office. Essential reading for anyone worried about the celibate component of priestly and religious sexuality.

[Skylar Cummings · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great insight and considerations on the true identity of the priesthood—especially with the heart of the man. But also it is dated at times to when it was written in 2005 compared to where the Church and presbyterate finds themselves today.

[Tim]

There is a lot of good stuff in this book, much that is helpful for those preparing for or living the ordained celibate life. However, I felt Acklin's ongoing critiques of Donald Cozzens' book, The Changing Face of the Priesthood (a book I found very helpful), not only unnecessary, but a distraction. I find Acklin's approach to the unchanging heart of the priesthood to be narrow at times because he feels the need to respond so often to Cozzens. I think this is the great weakness of the book. Clearly Acklin has different ecclesiological presuppositions than Cozzens. Had he argued from the basis of differing models of the of Church, I would have been more convinced.

I really like Acklin's synthesis of theological and biblical sources, but find his social science research to be narrow, with data presented in a truncated way that only reinforce his positions.

[Carlos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fr. Acklin's book shows both the weaknesses and strengths which priests today experience. He speaks at length about contemporary challenges such as the abuse crisis, but more than that, his focus is on those things which enrich priestly life. He speaks of the challenge and gift of celibacy, the need for prayer and other similar themes. This is a book which takes a sober and realistic look at how challenging yet joyful a priest's life can be, and it gives great hope for the future of the Church.

[Fr. Carl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chapters 2 & 3 (on the use and abuse of clerical power and the gift of celibacy) are some of the best material on the subjects I have ever seen

[Hazel]

This was a very interesting book. New information, and easily held my interest.