Jesuit Kaddish+I13
Book Description
In a profound act of spiritual courage, Jesuit scholar James Bernauer undertakes an unflinching examination of his own religious order's troubled relationship with Judaism throughout history. This groundbreaking work confronts a painful chapter that has long remained in the shadows, tracing how Jesuit attitudes toward Jews evolved from centuries of hostility to the transformative moment of Vatican II's Nostra aetate declaration.
Bernauer's investigation reveals the complex mechanisms through which anti-Semitic sentiment operated within Jesuit moral theology, particularly examining how dualistic approaches to sexuality intersected with anti-Jewish prejudice in Nazi Germany. Yet this is not merely a historical indictment. The author illuminates a remarkable transformation, highlighting influential Jesuits whose courageous thought and action helped reshape Catholic teaching about Judaism after World War II, with Cardinal Augustin Bea emerging as a pivotal figure in this spiritual revolution.
What makes this work particularly compelling for those on a spiritual journey is Bernauer's commitment to honest self-reflection as a path toward healing. He demonstrates how confronting uncomfortable truths about one's religious tradition can become a catalyst for genuine reconciliation and growth. The book honors fifteen Jesuits recognized as "Righteous Among the Nations" while proposing concrete steps toward repentance.
This deeply researched yet accessible study offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand how religious communities can acknowledge past failures while working toward authentic interfaith dialogue and spiritual renewal.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)
📄 Length: 220 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Judaism
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Relations
- ✓ Explore Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945) fast (OCoLC)fst00958866
- ✓ Explore Holocaust (Christian theology)
- ✓ Strengthen your faith journey
- ✓ Explore Catholic Church
- ✓ Explore Christian sects
