The first part is a short biography. The author captured in his sketch of the Pope’s life from childhood to papacy something that has struck many, especially in his recent visit to the US—his refreshing simplicity.
From when he was a young boy, he already had a clear, single-minded purpose of pursuing his theological studies and of teaching and writing. Right through the Second World War and into the Pope’s life as a university professor, then Bishop of Munich, then being called to Rome to head the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the author, in the Pope’s own words many times, shows how he has naturally continued in his uncluttered perception of the meaning and purpose of his life as well as of the world, and God’s relation to both.
This same simple, clear approach was also a factor in his being one of Pope John Paul II’s closest collaborators. The book shows his respect and sincerity in his dialogues including with those who were openly going against the Church.
The second part highlights important points of his spiritual vision through succinct texts from the Pope himself, especially when he was still a cardinal. He sees the Church as she is, full of contrasts: young and alive yet also going through a period of darkness together with the world, hopeful yet full of ever widening “deserts” that she shares with the world.
Points of his spiritual vision covered are the fundamental aspects of His Faith:
• The Question • God • Jesus Christ • The Holy Spirit • Mary • Creation • Humanity • Judaism • The Church • The Sacraments
Included in Today’s World:
• Morality • Marriage & Family Life • Social Justice • Politics and Peace • Culture and the Arts • Modernity • Ecumenism and Other Religions • Bioethics • Challenges for the future
And, The Christian Pilgrim:
• Suffering • Loneliness • Sin • Death • Prayer • Faith • Hope • Love • Holiness • Eternal life • True Joy
The last part of the book consists of Benedict XVI's "firsts" as Pope: his first words after being elected, his first message to the world, and his first homily.
The author, Dr. Robert Moynihan, is one of the leading Vatican analysts.
More summaries about the Let God'S Light Shine Forth