Pope Benedict XVI’s “The Apostles: Illustrated Edition”
Okay, I have to admit. When I was selecting my next product to review, I was a bit upset that the only choices were books I had already read, and a book by the Holy Father. Don’t get me wrong; I most certainly love the Pope and greatly appreciate his wonderful teachings. But as a homeschooling mother with young children who is currently pursuing the completion of her B.A., I simply do not have the quiet time to sit down and concentrate on such intelligent writing. I used to use part of my weekly holy hour to read Pope Benedict’s “Jesus of Nazareth”. It took me half a year to get half way through the book, and since the adoration schedule was changed and I am no longer able to go, I have not picked the book back up since.
The first part of the book, which focuses on the importance of the Apostles, especially in regards to the Church, was full of the insightful reflections I expect from our Holy Father. In relatively few words, he is able to convey to the reader how very important the apostles were in the formation of the early Church, as well as their continued importance for the Church today. His section on the Apostolic Tradition of the Church (which begins on page 39) is incredibly insightful. I believe it should be required reading for all entering the Church as adults.
The second part of the book is made up of chapters, each of which is devoted to a particular apostles. I really enjoyed these. They give the reader wonderful insights into the lives of these men, who were so ordinary and yet extraordinary at the same time. There is a special focus on St. Peter, and how his role as the Vicar of Christ developed. Special attention is paid to how his encounters with Christ, both positive and negative, contribute to his new role. It was surprising to see what encounters with Christ were the most formidable for Peter and the position he was to be given.
A big bonus with this edition is the absolutely beautiful illustrations chosen. I wonder if the Holy Father picked them out himself. If so, his taste in art is a wonderful as his taste in music! I think I may have spent as much time contemplating the pictures as I did his words.
If you have yet to read any of the Holy Father’s writings, and feel at all intimidated at the thought of doing so, I suggest starting with this one. It is not overwhelming, and can be easily read in short segments ( a huge plus, I believe, for mothers with small children). The illustrations are beautiful, and have used this book many time for my five-year-old’s art lessons. Despite my initial my intrepidation, this is a most welcome addition to my home library.
What I Wish Every Catholic Knew: How important the roles of the Apostles, human faults and all, were in establishing Christ’s Church and continue to be today.
What I Wish Every Catholic Would Do: Read this book. It will be very edifying and insightful.
This review was written as part of the Catholic book Reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on The Apostles Illustrated Edition .
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my mother: to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
