333 - The Church and Morality: An Ecumenical and Catholic Approach

The Church and Morality: An Ecumenical and Catholic Approach
By Charles E. Curran
Minneapolis, Fortress, 1993. 126 pp. $8.95.

Charles E. Curran, Elizabeth Scurlock Professor of Human Values at Southern Methodist University, writes this volume out of the conviction that mainstream Christian churches share a "catholic" approach to morality. On this basis, he examines three facets of the church's moral existence: its moral identity; its internal moral life, thought, and actions; and its approach to moral pluralism in society.

Basically, Curran explores what it means for the church to be a community of moral conviction as well as moral discourse and discernment. He argues for unity on essentials of the faith and diversity in what is more remote for inclusivity rather than exclusivity. And he maintains that a catholic approach must embrace all aspects of life and lead to the church's involvement in the world, assuming as appropriate the roles of learner, teacher, provider, model, and empowerer.

Forged by his own struggles with church authorities, this book is vintage Curran. It is clearly written, highly readable, and builds on familiar themes. Gently provocative, Curran is always respectful and profoundly challenging. His book is well worth the read for the thinking it stimulates and the discussion it will prompt, whether or not one ultimately agrees.

Ronald P. Hamel
The Park Ridge Center for the Study of Health, Faith, and Ethics
Chicago, IL.