Endorsements

Prof Mary McAleese, Doctor in both Secular and Church law, President of Ireland (l997–2011), at present Chancellor of Trinity College, Dublin.

“John Wijngaards is precisely the prophetic voice we need for our time as the Catholic Church wriggles out of its taut imperial chrysalis to fly at last on two wings, male and female, lay and ordained, equal in voice and decision-making, liberated from clericalism and legalism, free to love one another as Christ intended and as he loves us. If you want to know how to make that great transition, read this wonderful booklet and make the wisdom of these reflections your own!”

Prof Thomas O’Loughin, Prof (em.) University of Nottingham, Member of the Royal Irish Academy, Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, at present Director of the Brepols Library of Christian Sources.

“This book is an icebreaker in this crucial period of church reform. Wijngaards the theologian puts his finger on keys issues for the church and offers new paths. Wijngaards the communicator addresses them in a refreshing way and makes his points in plain language. This is a book to savour and to help you promote a healthier church!”

Dr. Jane Anderson, Anthropologist, Adjunct Research Fellow, University of Western Australia.

“Multiple cracks in the Church’s structures open it to a reality check. Wijngaards challenges clerical power with Christ’s inclusive authority. Replete with humour, true story and exegesis, the reader is invited to reflect upon how the Church is to organise itself. A timely work. These daily reflections grapple with existential questions that open us to a Church finally moving forward.”

Prof Paul Lakeland, Professor Emeritus, Fairfield University, Connecticut; President of the Catholic Theological Society of America (2018-2019); Director of the Center for Catholic Studies, Fairfield.

“This is an incredibly engaging and really creative work. Wijngaards’ lifetime of commitment to ministry in the church is brought to bear on the place of authority in the community of faith. The reflections that make up this fascinating book interweave personal experience and the practice of Jesus. They make for a thoroughly original account of the importance of personal discernment for a renewal in ecclesial vitality where it most importantly belongs, at the grassroots of church life. Lively and life-affirming, Wijngaards shares his endless hopefulness to good effect.”

Prof Todd Salzman, Professor of Theology, Creighton University, Omaha.

“John Wijngaards’ book is a timely collection of reflections proposing a Christocentric model of authority in the Church. Highly relevant in the light of Pope Francis’ synodality, a journeying together through authentic dialogue, recognition and embrace of the sensus fidelium, grounded in “reality” and experiential learning. This learning invites all the faithful to reflect on authentic authority in the Church based in service, not power. I recommend this to individuals, faith groups, and parish communities.”

Dr Susan K. Roll, Prof (em.) University of Ottawa, Canada.

“John Wijngaards has produced an eye-opening and thought-provoking book of concise daily reflections designed to be read and digested over the course of a month.  Each one begins with Scripture, an amusing cartoon and a personal story or anecdote from Wijngaards’ life experience around the world.  The theological unfolding that follows is entirely digestible and accessible, not intimidating, the conclusions logical and common-sense.  These reflections can be used with profit by anyone.”