Light of the World is the new book-length interview with Pope Benedict XVI by Peter Seewald, the third such project the author has undertaken. In it, the pope is asked to address the issues of the day, including the really difficult issues such as the clerical abuse scandals, the position of Christianity in a secular world, and the relationship between Christianity and Islam.The Holy Father’s responses to the questions are always interesting and thoughtful. His way of approaching problems is to look for the broad intellectual and social trends involved. Rarely does he get down to practical details.
For example, it’s clear that the pope would like to see a renewal of Christianity in Europe. However, about the most concrete suggestion he has is that bishops should “give catechesis a new heart and a new face” (p. 140).
Despite the fuss made back in November by misinformed journalists, there’s really nothing new in the book. What it does offer, though, is an insight into Pope Benedict’s thought.
Pope Benedict XVI, Peter Seewald. Light of the World: The Pope, The Church and The Signs Of The Times. Ignatius, 2010. Hardcover. 256 pages. ISBN 9781586176068. $21.95.
