Signatures of Grace: Catholic Writers on the Sacraments

by Thomas Grady (Editor), Paula Huston

Renowned Catholic writers share their distinct and deeply moving interpretations of the seven sacraments

"Given Catholicism's ancient aesthetic splendor, it's not surprising that many believing artists are Catholics . . . The seven sacraments of the Catholic church-Baptism, Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation, Marriage, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders-make visible momentarily and through symbol the mysterious meeting of the human and the divine." (from the Introduction by Thomas Grady and Paula Huston)

A distinctly integral feature of Catholic life, the seven holy sacraments play an enormously influential role in the lives of many writers who practice the Catholic faith. Signatures of Grace is a remarkable collection of essays inspired by the sacraments, showcasing several of the finest Catholic writers of our time-including Mary Gordon, Ron Hansen, Patricia Hampl, and Andre Dubus-who have in common their personal commitments to the Catholic faith. Each essay, lyrically written and thought-provoking on its own, offers an individual writer's fresh perspective about the influence of Catholicism on his or her work. Signatures of Grace describes the profound mysteries of sacramental life and is a unique contribution to literature in this genre.

Genres: Religion

254 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2000

Reviews

[Sarah Sammis · Rating 1 out of 5]

Signatures of Grace is a series of essays on the sacraments by Catholic writers. It's outside my normal choice of book but it's a beautifully bound book and I was intrigued. The authors who participated are Murray Bodo, Andre Dubus, Mary Gordon, Patricia Hampl, Ron Hansen, Paul Mariani and Katherine Vaz.

My favorite essay is Katherine Vaz's. "Baptism" starts off the book. She speaks of her grandmother and her traditions and her mother who was often at odds with those traditions. Besides enjoying the sentimental autobiography, I felt a connection to her through where she grew up. She grew up in San Lorenzo and Castro Valley, neighborhoods we frequent.

The rest of the book is a blur for me. The remaining essays heavier on the theology than Vaz's essay is. The book ends with a section of short biographies of the contributing authors. Although I didn't especially enjoy Signatures of Grace the book is still finely crafted. It just wasn't for me. It was the wrong book for the wrong time.

[Marla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book but can't find my copy! This is what comes of moving too often.