I read this book in preparation for taking a class at AEI with Kaemingk, and I’m now looking forward to the class much more than I initially was. PersI read this book in preparation for taking a class at AEI with Kaemingk, and I’m now looking forward to the class much more than I initially was. Personally, I didn’t think this was an easy read—it’s is extremely challenging, in that it’s not just glazing over the complexity of multicultural societies and their problems in Europe and the U.S.; furthermore, Kaemingk doesn’t give a half-baked, unsustainable answer to religious pluralism like so many do. I would recommend this book to anyone who is frustrated with the way the church in America approaches (or the lack of approach) to Muslim immigrants, and wants somewhere to start in that reconciliation between Islam and the West, particularly between Islam and the American church— read if you want a clearer knowledge of what once worked for Europe in terms of a pluralistic society, how the European experience of Muslim immigrants in public life differs from that of America, and the theology behind the rights and duties of Christian, Muslims, and all people in democratic societies. Incredibly thought provoking, intellectually, academically, and spiritually enriching while simultaneously challenging. Would highly recommend, but don’t wade into it thinking you’ll have the answer to Islam and Christianity by the end of the book. ...more
“When the soul of a man is born in this country nets are flung at it to hold it back from flight. You talk to me of nationality, language, religion. I“When the soul of a man is born in this country nets are flung at it to hold it back from flight. You talk to me of nationality, language, religion. I shall try to fly by those nets.”
This. Book.!!!
Absolutely spectacular— Joyce’s prose is immensely profound, beautiful, and thought-provoking throughout his protagonist’s attempt to answer the question, “How should I live?” through the confines and bounds of Catholicism, fire and brimstone theology, Irish nationalism and the pressures of duty to country. His humanity is on full display throughout his descriptions of desire, inconsolable yearning, elated joy and deep sadness.
Chapter 3 and the INTENSE sermon on hell scared ME, and thus I’m very impressed with Joyce’s writing and ability to pivot his protagonist’s story at this point. ...more
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