Naming Our Sins

Jana M. Bennett is professor of religious studies at the University of Dayton. David Cloutier is associate professor of moral theology/ethics at The Catholic University of America.

"Makes scholarship accessible to readers for whom it may be opaque and/or nonexistent...astutely treats the importance of relationship in an account of naming sins, as well as answering well the challenge of social sin (structural sin) poses to our ability to name sins."--Kent Lasnoski, author of Vocation to Virute: Christian Marriage as a Consecrated Life (CUA Press)"Naming Our Sins brings together some of the best qualities of the wine of classical Thomistic moral theology and the new wineskins of post-conciliar renewal. Drawing on a talented group of scholars, both lay and clerical, Jana Bennett and David Cloutier have produced a volume which takes a penetrating look at the subtle ways the seven deadly vices impact our lives, relationships, and the societies in which we live with the aim of enriching and renewing Catholic moral and spiritual life through the sacrament of reconciliation. An outstanding text for undergraduate and seminary level courses in moral theology. Highly recommended."--John S. Grabowski, The Catholic University of America "Gluttony, lust, greed, sloth, anger, envy, pride--this book has it all! In seven chapters that interweave the heart of the Christian tradition with contemporary culture, Naming Our Sins brings to life the myriad ways that the interplay between our individual actions and our social context leads to disorder and pain in our lives. Bennett and Cloutier take a crucial first step here in helping to revivify a post-Vatican II vision for a robust, adult practice of reconciliation necessary for the church to be what it's called to be--a field hospital helping to heal the brokenness of the world. All those who seek spiritual growth and faithful discipleship should read this book."--M. Therese Lysaught, Loyola University Chicago "The Catholic confessional still stands as the original "safe space," the singular place where the penitent and God can speak in total secrecy. As a priest who facilitates this dialogue, this collection of essays provides invaluable reflections on the possible origins, corrosive nature, and certain destructiveness of the deadly sins. Drawing on the best of the Great Tradition, from the Church Fathers to the best of contemporary moral theology, these pages should be read by any confessor and spiritual director intent on helping bring God's mercy and wisdom to others."--Rev. David Meconi, SJ, Saint Louis University; editor of Homiletic & Pastoral Review