( 9 reviews )
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Posted: Feb 26 2009
In one of the enduring works of his papacy, John Paul II's book length treatise on the philosophical and theological nature of God stands as a masterwork. The late pope also examines the impact of personalism on himself and Catholics and declares it complementary to Aquinasian philosophy. A good read that explains the place of Catholicism in the complicated modern world and offers hope to those who feel that the Church is anachronistic.
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Posted: Feb 10 2009
This book is a look into the thoughts of a brilliant man, Pope John Paul II. It is very beautifully written, and easy to understand. I must admit to not wanting to read a "religious" book, but once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. It really is an inspirational book for all people. A MUST READ!!!
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( 1 of 1 found this review helpful ) Posted: Nov 24 2008
Vittorio Messori was to participate in an unprecedented globally televised interview of John Paul II on the occasion of his fifteenth anniversary of his papacy. Unfortunately, the interview did not take place due to the complications of the Pope's schedule. Several months later, Messori got a message from the Pope's press secretary saying that the Pope had kept Messori's questions on his desk and felt they should not go to waste. The Pope then responded in writing and suggested the title, "Crossing the Threshold of Hope." Messori, who edited this work, commented that "the pages that follow make it clear that this is a Pope, who is impatient in his apostolic zeal; a shepherd to whom the usual paths always seem insufficient; who looks to every means to spread the Good News to men; who - evangelically - wants to shout from the rooftops that there is hope, that it has been confirmed, that it is offered to whoever wants to accept it." In "Crossing," the Pope responds to questions ranging from "the unbelievable claim (to non-Catholics) that the Pope is God's representative," "how the Pope prays," "Why there is so much evil in the world," to "Why does God tolerate suffering?" and "Is there really hope for the young." My favorite questions centered on "Why so many religions?" and "Human Rights," and "Be not afraid." In answering the first question of most interest to me, John Paul II offered that we should focus not on what is different between religions but what is similar to find a common ground. On the second question, the Pope maintains that the Gospel is the fullest confirmation of human rights which confirms the divine rule and upholds the moral order. And with regard to the last question, the Pope exhorts us to "have no fear of that which you yourselves have created, have not fear of all that man has produced...have no fear of yourselves...Why? Because man has been redeemed by God." John Paul II in "Crossing the Threshold of Hope" eliminates abstractions and provide answers to these oft-asked questions with clarity and directness, easily understood by all. The editing by Messori is superb, creating a book that is timeless and has become a bedside companion for millions. "For in hope we are saved." (Rom 8:19-24)
