Scripture & Theology

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Jesus and Women

Rosemary Haughton

An inspiring series of meditative reflections on the women in the life of Jesus and his very special relationship with them. This four-cassette series is divided into eight individual discussions:

Talk 1: The Woman Who Came Out of the Shadow
Talk 2: The Woman With Something to Give
Talk 3: Wherever the Gospel is Preached
Talk 4: It Seemed to Them Nonsense
Talk 5: Your Sins are Forgiven
Talk 6: Fellow Workers in Christ
Talk 7: The Two Marys
Talk 8: The God-Bearer

Rosemary Haughton sees models for women today as they strive to break through cultural barriers in their response to God's call. This series of talks is suitable for personal meditation or group sharing.

In this stimulating series of talks, Bishop Morneau explains that a critical part of life's journey is the attainment and assimilation of meaning. The Christian views life as an experience. Such an experience has not so much to do with quantity as quality.

Utilizing selections from the poetry of George Herbert, Jessica Powers, and Gerard Manley Hopkins, Bishop Morneau opens our eyes and hearts to the integral relationship of theology and poetry. Through examination of the symbols, themes, images and other aspects of select poems he demonstrates the link between the theologian and the poet. With each poem he provides a deep theological and poetical reflection. He shows us how poetry can aid our growing and trusting of one another and God and how the poet may provide us with insight of God and others, thus opening us up to the richness of life.

In this stimulating series of talks, Bishop Morneau explains that a critical part of life's journey is the attainment and assimilation of meaning. The Christian views life as an experience. Such an experience has not so much to do with quantity as quality.

Utilizing selections from the poetry of George Herbert, Jessica Powers, and Gerard Manley Hopkins, Bishop Morneau opens our eyes and hearts to the integral relationship of theology and poetry. Through examination of the symbols, themes, images and other aspects of select poems he demonstrates the link between the theologian and the poet. With each poem he provides a deep theological and poetical reflection. He shows us how poetry can aid our growing and trusting of one another and God and how the poet may provide us with insight of God and others, thus opening us up to the richness of life.

Keith Egan explores and interrelates themes in John of the Cross and Scripture and leads us to see John as a person with a Biblical imagination who uses Scripture to expand our consciousness. Practical guidelines for reading John of the Cross are included.

In a lively and entertaining manner Roland Murphy presents the meaning and background of the Song of Songs on the level of historical criticism. He discusses the relationship of the Song of Songs to John of the Cross' Spiritual Canticle, and concludes by drawing out the significance of the Song for contemporary spirituality.

To explain the mystery of human suffering, Stuhlmueller fuses Creation and Salvation theology. He presents in a compelling, moving manner the partial and tentative explanations of the scriptures. He explores the interaction of sin, innocence, justice, prayer and human agony from the perspectives found in the Torah, the Prophets, and the Psalms. The insights gained from this study are as profound as they are fresh. Stuhlmueller shows how the destiny of the people as a whole and the individual Israelite as well are bound to the Lord of revelation. He orients the listener towards a truly biblical theology of suffering.

By listening to this tape, you will feel confident in your ability to interpret accurately the Word of God for yourself and other. You do not have to ba a biblical scholar to understand Fr. Stuhlmueller's refreshing, simple and clear method for approaching the scriptures. He illustrate how to pray the Bible with a new-found sense of wonder that leads to a dynamic "Godmindedness." This tape will give you a basis for the enrichment of your own prayer life and the spirituality of the community in which you live and work.

Fr. Stuhlmueller explains the theological, social, and educational presuppositions of fundamentalism. He demonstrates that it is a reality that cuts across denominational lines and is found in Catholicism. The challenge of fundamentalism is real and ongoing. Every pastoral leader will benefit from Fr. Carroll's precise pastoral and theological response to fundamentalism. The information and pastoral plans of this tape will promote authentic religious growth and will hold in check any tendencies in ourselves as well as others towards fanaticism and religious bigotry.

In this extraordinary tape, Fr. Stuhlmueller clearly demonstrates the origin, meaning and dynamics of the liturgy. Through a deep understanding of the liturgy we come to know who we are and what we are called to become. Stuhlmueller's panoramic and insightful treatment of the development of the people of God's prayer life clarifies the relationship between historical events and sacred rites. He explains how the Bible rose out of the liturgical commemorations of history and brought home to the people the significance of God's redemptive acts. Sacred song, ceremonies, objects, places and personnel gave the people a knowledge of their history and their future.

What were the biblical roles of women as disciples, ministers, apostles and prophets? How did the Old Testament figures of Miriam, Deborrah and Hulda typify women's potential under the power of God? What was Jesus' attitude towards women? Did it differ from Paul's? In what ways were both Jesus and Paul affected by first century culture and practices? In what ways did they transcend their circumstances to transform the world? Were Paul's personal friendships with and reliance upon women in his ministry in direct contradiction to his teaching about their roles? Is Mary an impossible ideal for women to follow or the perfect practical model for all believers? Did Mary's prophetic role supersede her role as Mother in Luke? Why isn't Mary named in John's Gospel even though her importance is undisputed? These and other questions are answered in this tape in such a way that we become aware of our own roles in serving God and neighbor in the last decade of the twentieth century.

Fr. Fred Jelly, OP, a professor of theology and a well-known American Mariologist, presents this minicourse on Mary in contemporary theology. This course os developed around the Biblical, Patristic and Liturgical sources of Mariology, the Christocentric, Ecclesiotypical and Pneumatological content of Marian doctrine; and the spiritual, pastoral and ecumenical dimension of liturgical and private devotions. Perfect for personal, pastoral and theological updating, meditation, and parish discussion groups.

Sr. Hobday and Fr. Stuhlmueller have joined together to bring us a delightful and serious talk on creation and scripture. Sr. Jose tells us that Awe need people moist in spirit, people who are not dry and brittle.@ This has nothing to do with age. Rather, it is a youthfulness of spirit which permits a person to grow and change. This suppleness allows one to take serious creative steps on the spiritual life. AOne must have a sense of play and constantly keep re-discovering, discovering, and delighting in one's capacity to play.

Fr. Stuhlmueller grounds us in earth, scripture, and tradition. Utilizing his scriptural expertise and pastoral heart, he brings to life the creation stories, a time of peace which progresses to hostility. Using Isaiah 11 and the latter part of Isaiah 65, he demonstrates the Prophet's word and the belief in the power within us to bring forth a new heaven and a new earth, a new transformation.

AT LAST! We have clear, precise instruction from Scripture about our obligation for our earth. What is our responsibility for the earth? How is this determined? Whose rules are we going to play by? This is a compelling program everyone should hear. Each person is concerned with ecological devastation today. Infrequently does a day go by when we are not confronted with stories of the destruction of the Amazon forest, sickness and disease because of the abuse of our resources, the depletion of the ozone layer, and the question of endangered species. How and with what are the ordinary people, teachers, priests, religious, and CCD teachers to confront these issues? Sister Bergant teaches in an intelligible and concise style the wisdom and direction provided to us by the Scriptures. In the end, it is through us/me that the world is blessed or cursed. Am I willing to take the challenge?

Fr. Fred Jelly, OP, author, preacher, lecturer, gives this Triduum (three 30 minute talks) on Mary and the Holy Spirit. This excellent cassette program, seeded with contemporary parables, gives us a clear understanding of the action of the Holy Spirit in Mary's life, in our own lives, and in the Life of the Church. As Mary is the expression of perfect docility to the Holy Spirit, we are brought to ponder all these things in our hearts and to do whatever he tells us. Perfect for meditation, preparation for Pentecost, monthly recollection, prayer groups, and discussion groups.

The Biblical renewal of the past twenty-five years has led to an awareness of Scripture among the Catholic laity such as they have not had for centuries. Priests, too, have benefitted from this development and perhaps, equally from reading the Office in one of the many new and excellent translations. These eleven outstanding talks contain much new material to stimulate a renewal of their attitudes to the Breviary, to the Psalms and to their ministry. And the laity will notice the difference too - homilies will have a new tone and more substantial content.

This thought provoking and insightful study on St. Paul, Corinth, and its people is packed with useful and practical information. On the backdrop of this canvas, one gets a greater appreciation of St. Paul and his Letters to the Corinthians. In fact, a clear portrait of St. Paul's person and problems comes to the fore, as does the community in which he lived, preached and worked for some time. Paul helps the Corinthians come to grips with the seeming contradiction of a charismatic church, driven by the Holy Spirit. These insights will certainly enrich any personal reading and study of the Letters to the Corinthians and St. Paul.

It is fascinating to look at the fundamental aspects of the Old Testament, such as the Chosen People, the Covenant, Sacrifice, the Messiah and Prophecy, and see how Jesus' understanding and the prevalent Jewish understanding of the Old Testament differ. That is what Fr. Doyle does in these ten outstanding lectures in which he introduces us to Jesus the Jew, the Priest, the Messiah, the Prophet, the Redeemer, and the Goal of Creation, to mention just a few of his topics.

The fruit of Fr. Doyle's long years of study and research, these lectures combine the very latest scholarly work on Scripture with a clarity of presentation which makes them an enriching study and spiritual tool, and a valuable addition to your cassette library.

This four cassette program is a very original and exciting vision and interpretation of Luke/Acts starting from the statement made in Luke 1:8: "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witness in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria to the ends of the earth." According to LaVerdiere, this passage from Acts illustrates and constitutes the original plan for the missionary expansion of the church in apostolic times. The insights of Luke/Acts have implications for today's Church as it plans to be Christ's witness "to the ends of the earth." An essential program for those interested in the most current applications of the latest biblical scholarship and in completing their knowledge of Luke/Acts. Helpful for meditation and homily hints, as well as for Scripture study and discussion groups.

This program guides us on a journey of understanding the Books of the Prophets as well as the Prophets themselves. This very comprehensive work uncovers the history, culture, peoples and times in which the prophets lived and preached. With Bible in hand and aided by a very detailed and practical outline, you can easily follow the exegesis, teachings, interpretations and applications given. An excellent introduction for beginners. Perfect for updating your knowledge of the prophets and the biblical history of these important times. Good for CCD classes as well as Adult Education. An excellent 10-week course of study. Also an exceptional source of biblical facts and trivia.

Alba House Communications, in collaboration with the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago (CTU), presents this five cassette study on the Prophecy of Isaiah. Fr. Stuhlmueller, a long time professor of Scripture at CTU, presents this complete study on the Book of Isaiah the Prophet.

We are shown how each prophecy is edited, reworked, and organized to give the bigger picture of God's enduring presence. We experience, through the guidance of a skilled biblical scholar, how the Book of Isaiah was redacted and edited by several people who were able to adapt the prophecy of the original Isaiah to new situations which really represented a new creation.

You will feel Isaiah speaking to you where you are. Are you at home? Are you in exile? God re-creates and renews you with words of love and tenderness. Redemption for Isaiah is the ultimate act of intimacy and love - an act that completely transforms. Theology becomes mute before the God of revelation - the God of Isaiah.

This four cassette program uncovers unseen elements of the Eucharist in Luke and Paul. Taking off from the Last Supper narratives of Luke's Gospel and Paul's description of the Lord's Supper in 1 Corinthians, LaVerdiere shows how the Eucharist enables our relationship (mission/being) with the Risen Lord, who sends us off to do...ministry. Fr. LaVerdiere reveals how the other six suppers in Luke shed light on the meaning of the Last Supper, which is the last of many other suppers. The Eucharistic bent underlying the whole Gospel of Luke is laid open.

This is vintage LaVerdiere. Excellent reflection on the Eucharist, this program will help you deepen your understanding of the Eucharist from a scriptural and practical point of view. It will certainly open your eyes to the meaning of Assembly and how rich Jesus' words are: "Do this in memory of me." Good meditation material and excellent teaching on the Holy Eucharist for any adult.

iTAH304 - Four audio-cassettes - $34.95
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The Annunciation and the Resurrection certainly show that nothing is impossible with God. Fr. LaVerdiere blends elements of the Infancy and Resurrection Narratives with the Lord's Prayer to show how what is impossible for us is most certainly possible for God. LaVerdiere's skill in storytelling and his precise exegesis of particular statements and words open a new world of scriptural reflection. Key words from the Greek text are worked in until the impact of their fullest meaning rises to the surface. This ten-talk series is excellent for Bible Study and for meditative reflection. A complete and detailed outline facilitates personal and group study.

Father Benedict Groeschel analyzes recent Church history and other cultural and intellectual movements in order to take an educated guess (not prophecy) as to where the Church will be in the 21st century and how the Church will get there. His acute analytic interpretation of the past and present shines a light on the Church to be. He gives us a good glimpse of the future by using the optics of the past and present. Informative, interesting, and stimulating. Excellent for anyone concerned about the present and future of the Church. Exceptionally insightful. An excellent discussion starter for groups.

Fr. Alfred McBride, O Praem, PhD

Fr. McBride introduces the New Catechism with a brief history of the two universal catechisms: Trent and Vatican II. Revelation, Faith, and the Magisterium form the context of the New Catechism. He shows how changing times, new moral issues, etc. created an absolute need for a New Catechism. He clearly points out how the New Catechism should be used and what it's goals are.

These talks are an excellent means of preparing for the use of the New Catechism. Will give pastors, DRE's and other staff members an excellent foundation for understanding the New Catechism. It will also familiarize them, in survey form, with the teachings of the New Catechism. A primer of the first degree, it is also filled with all kinds of philosophical, educational, and motivational information. This cassette program also comes with a complete detailed outline and summary.

This three cassette program is a calm presentation of the Church's ecumenical stance. It reviews the history of separation with the prospective for engendering and promoting unity. It also gives the Church's approach and mind regarding ministry, Eucharist, women's ordination, etc. In extended question and answer sessions after each talk Cardinal Cassidy answers many of those questions you never thought of asking or were afraid to ask about the Church's real view and approach to ecumenism. A remarkable discussion starter as well as a primer on developing ecumenical spirit and conduct by one of the Church's leading authorities on the subject.

In collaboration with the National Institute for Clergy Formation of Seton Hall, Alba House Communications presents this one- cassette talk by Fr. Avery Dulles.

Fr. Dulles assures us that John Paul II takes very seriously his responsibility for the vigor and cohesion of the Church. His underlying humanism is a system of thought and a program of action that is centered on humanity. It implies a high esteem for the human person as having an intrinsic value. The defence of human dignity and the promotion of human rights stand at the very center of his teaching.

The Holy Father's prophetic stance has a sense of urgency about it. He considers the world to be in crises and on a course of dehumanization.

Fr. Dulles tells us that the Pope weaves his humanistic prophetic stance through four central themes: 1) Evangelization; 2) Theological Anthropology (self realization of the person); 3) Social Reconstruction; and 4) The Renewal of Cultures.

Pope John Paul II holds that the Church is called to be a sign of contradiction in our day. The Church is the front line of a lively battle for the dignity of human beings. John Paul II remains a leading prophet and example of authentic humanism in the world today.

An excellent study on the Holy Father's positions and insights throughout his life and during his papacy. Good motivational material. Highly informative. Intensely pastoral.

Fr. Fred Jelly, OP

Fr. Fred Jelly, a Dominican priest, is a noted writer and speaker, and teaches at Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland. In his audio presentation Fr. Jelly give us, in easy to understand terms, a sound theological foundation for the efficacy of the devotion to the Two Hearts - The Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. These Two Hearts beat as one in perfect harmony with the will of the Father.

To love the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a perfect exchange for Christ's redeeming love. We may fail to respond to that love because of human weakness or because of our inherent sinful ingratitude. We can make amends for our failures through communions of reparation. As Mary is the Immaculate Mother of God, we recognize through her Immaculate Heart the perfect model of intimacy and love. She surrendered completely to the will of the Father and lived in perfect accord with Him.

Through this devotion, the Alliance of the Two Hearts, we can learn a balanced and effective way to encounter Jesus more completely. We learn to adore Jesus present to us in the Blessed Sacrament, and to be more generous in making reparation for our human failings.

A superbly provocative audio presentation for anyone who wishes to understand more fully the love that God has for us and which is communicated to us through Jesus and Mary.

iTAH340 - 1 audio-cassette $8.95
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What does it mean to be Catholic? We seem to have come to a point in history where many Catholics are unable to express a suitable answer to this question. Our heritage has been muddled to the point that many people are unaware of what makes them unique as Catholic Christians.

In this refreshing and informative audio cassette discussion, Fr. LaVerdiere relates with sincerity to the three aspects of our faith that make the Catholic unique - the universal nature of our Church, the depth of tradition, and the sacramental aspect. There is nothing abstract in the foundations of the Catholic faith, and Fr. LaVerdiere presents this program in uncomplicated

terms meant to be understood by all. Not just an apologetic work, but a good refresher course for anyone desiring to gain a deeper understanding of the faith.

iTAH345 - 1 audio-cassette - $8.95
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For us as Catholics, Mary holds a very special and sacred position in salvation history and among the Saints. She is the model of discipleship and paragon of Christian vocation. Yet many of us lack a solid theological foundation upon which to ground the faith and love which we possess for her.

Fr. Fred Jelly, a Dominican priest and educator who teaches a course in Mariology at Mt. St. Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, has developed this audio-cassette program on the theology of Mary based on the new Catechism of the Catholic Church. Fr. Jelly elaborates on Mary in the Creed and in doctrine, in worship, prayer and devotion, and speaks of discipleship in the Church. This enlightening mini-course is a valuable tool for the study of the theology of Mary, and a great companion to the new Catechism.

What does it mean to break bread in our own homes? How is it that Jesus Aate salt@ with the disciples? Join Fr. Eugene LaVerdiere in this vivid examination of the early Church community viewed through the eyes of Luke in the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. Fr. LaVerdiere sheds a new light on these magnificent writings with his insightful and dynamic exegesis that allows the listener to understand the cultural significance, the historical settings, and the literary style that underscore the message of the Risen Lord. We see the early Church develop in spite of hardships and adversity, and feel present and part of the community at the institution of the Eucharist. As we take part in the celebration of the early Church, we begin to develop a secure sense of mission, grounding the teachings of the apostles to that of Jesus.

Within the psalter is found a rich spiritual treasury of the dialogue between man and God. This varied collection of religious songs served many purposes in the temple, the community, the nation, and individually. But what can the contemporary Christian learn from the Psalms, and how can they be incorporated into a Christian prayer life? Fr. Roland Murphy approaches these and other questions in this comprehensive audio-cassette series that exposes the listener to the vital essence of the spirituality found within the psalter. He directs the listener to enter into the culture, history, and intention of the psalmist in order to bring the psalms into a new realm of understanding. A thorough course in the psalms, this series will prove to be an elucidating experience for all, and bring a fresh vitality into the Christian prayer life.

The story of God's interaction with humankind runs like a current through the books of the Bible. The Old Testament historians captured much of this story with an imagery that is stunning and very often illuminating in a personal and provocative fashion. To understand the messages of the Old Testament is to understand the history of salvation in human terms. In this audio-cassette series Fr. Roland Murphy will direct the listener by way of four unique voices from the Old Testament wisdom and prophetic books. His reexamination of Deuteronomy, Jonah, Job, and the Song of Songs will help to develop an appreciative understanding of God in the story of salvation that can illuminate the course of a contemporary spirituality.

The Gospel of John, rich in literary symbolism, stands uniquely apart in character from the synoptic accounts and as such begs for an investigation that is enlightened through a different form of theological reflection. St. John (or the community of) has created and organized the narrative accounts in the fourth Gospel to serve not only historical but theological ends as well. To fully present the universal aspect of redemption through Christ, the Gospel writer emphasizes the Divinity of Jesus with an explicit clarity that is found in none of the synoptic Gospels. The unique objective of John's Gospel requires a uniquely informed point of departure which will allow the scholar to grasp the essential message as it is revealed through the aesthetic character of literary form. Fr. Stephen Doyle has provided, through this encompassing audio-cassette series, a thorough course in the Gospel of John. Father Doyle will show us in this series of conferences the many unique aspects of John's Gospel, the definitive facets of discipleship, the temptations of Christ and his works, the prophetic role of Jesus in the Covenant, and finally the Gospel fulfilled in us for today. A wonderfully refreshing course in John's Gospel for novice or scholar that brings genuine relevance and comprehension to the contemporary world.

iTAH387 Five audio-tapes with outline $42.95
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As a commentator on the relationship between spirituality and theology, Rosemary Luling Haughton is experienced and knowledgeable, with firm conviction and an exquisite radiance that serves to show forth the magnitude of her own spiritual dimensions. In this descriptive discourse she makes a concise exploration of the sources of spirituality, demonstrating how theology issues out of spiritual experience and ultimately feeds back into it. This symbiosis forms the heart of any authentic theology, recognizing the source and meaning of all truthful study as emanating from the heart of the divine. A full awareness of the spirit working in our lives can guide us to an encompassing comprehension of the theological dimensions that lead back to God. This is wonderful meditation material for anyone who wishes to pursue a deeper experience of God on the personal level or as part of a course of study.

As a brilliant reflection of God's interaction with humanity, the Psalms have a favored place in scripture as the prayers that have the ability to move, affect, and comfort. The Psalms represent the great prayer book of life, and reaffirm the interaction of God in our midst. As such, the faithful must address the need for an embracing of these prayers that will move into and influence every dimension of their lives. Rev. Larry Boadt, a Paulist father and Old Testament scholar, weaves literary, liturgical, and social dimensions into a spirituality of the Psalms that is presented in this audio-cassette course. Through a close reading of the Jewish prayers and some insightful commentary, the listener can derive contemporary connections that will bring this magnificent book of prayers to life. Excellent material for personal study, parish discussion groups, and Bible study classes.

There is a close connection between sacred tradition and the Holy Scriptures. The task of authentically interpreting the word of God is a necessary step to preserving the rich tapestry of faith that is woven throughout both the New and Old Testaments. In order to fully embrace the totality of God's reveled word we must be as informed as possible about the source and scope of that revelation. Fr. Joseph Fitzmyer, one of the world's treasures in Old Testament scholarship, helps to direct the listener toward a comprehensive view of the essence of God's word revealed through the Dead Sea Scrolls of Qumran. In this academic audio-cassette series, Fr. Fitzmyer scrutinizes the essence of Qumran, the interpretation of the Old Testament through the Dead Sea Scrolls, and their impact on the emerging Christian community. His style is informative, challenging, and enlightening as he directs the listener toward a new or a renewed appreciation of the cultural and anthropological aspects that have played so important a part in the development of the Christian tradition.

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