Fr. P. J. Gannon, S.J. Written in Stone: How the Ten Commandments Strengthen and Heal Our World. Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2022. Paperback $14.95. 128 pages. Available from the publisher.
In this newly reprinted classic, eminent retreat and spiritual director Fr. P. J. Gannon, S.J. incisively explains how faith and ethics are complementary and answers a broad range of social and moral questions. Drawing from theology, practical reasoning, and real-world examples, he logically demonstrates that the Ten Commandments are the statements of belief and morals upon which society must stand.
“It is fairly evident that dark, underground influences are at work today in our midst, seeking by every kind of innuendo, false assertion, and misrepresentation to undermine your trust not only in us your priests and teachers, but in Him Whom we preach, I think it well to make you understand, as far as may be, not only what the Church teaches, but why,” explained Fr. Gannon. “Hence I will attempt to arm your own souls with motives that will enable you to cleave to God, though the very heavens above us were rolling up in final doom.”
Fr. Gannon gives readers solid answers to defend their faith:
• St. Thomas Aquinas’ proofs of God with relevant examples
• The truth about personal liberty and social justice in society
• What the Church really teaches about chastity and ways to cultivate it in daily living
• Why the Gospel will help bring about temporal prosperity
• Catholic teaching to refute pseudo-spirituality
By the same token, readers will learn about ethics in a host of contemporary issues, such as whether or not suicide is ever justifiable, and questions about the morality of war, revolution, the death penalty, and treatment of prisoners. Fr. Gannon further decries the immorality of abortion, contraception, euthanasia, and much more.
Fr. Gannon further reflects upon how morality applies to labor and “class-war.” He evaluates the disadvantages in extreme Capitalism, and dangers of Communism and fanaticism. He warns about Russian imperialism and what happens when humanity is infiltrated by mistruths, robbed of sanity, and ceases to practice virtue.
This book provides a treasure trove of wisdom to assist readers in navigating through our tumultuous times.
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of Written in Stone, and/or to schedule an interview.
