Author Description

Karl Rahner's (1904--1984) vast erudition, deeply creative proposals in all the key theological areas, and pervasive influence made him one of the giants of twentieth- century theology. Yet the very depth and extent of his contributions have made reading Rahner a formidable test of one's interest. Geffrey Kelly's anthology of Rahner's writings overcomes the obstacles beautifully. Like prior volumes in this highly praised series, Karl Rahner features a lengthy Introduction, which situates Rahner's thought firmly in his biography and spirituality. The Select Bibliography neatly organizes the vast work by and on Rahner. And the Selected Texts are creatively chosen, strategically beginning not with Rahner's philosophical anthropology but with the spiritual life. Together they comprise something of a mini- summa of Rahner's contributions to the chief areas of theology: * prayer and the spiritual life; * grace and freedom: * revelation and the development of dogma; * the doctrine of God; * Jesus Christ; * the Holy Spirit; * the church; * sacrament and symbol; * Christian faith, praxis, and martyrdom; * methodology in theology.