Go in Peace: A Gift of Enduring Love

Spiritual Life, Fall 2003 by Jordan, Regis

Go in Peace: A Gift of Enduring Love. By Pope John Paul II. Edited by Joseph Durepos. Chicago, Ill.: Loyola Press, 2003. Pp. 144. Hardcover. $19.95.

In the twenty-fifth year of his papacy, Pope John Paul II leads a Church with a two thousand year old spiritual tradition and over one billion believers worldwide. Known for his tireless defense of human dignity and commitment to peace, he speaks with a rare moral clarity to all people. Now, a new book collects his words on the enduring themes of his papacy and presents the pope's pastoral voice, speaking from his heart directly to the reader. Drawn from the millions of words he has spoken and written during his pontificate, the twelve chapters distill the heart of his teachings, reflecting the seamless integrity of his thought. The selections show the compassion, the intellect, the poetry of a great soul, and his keen insights into human life. Each chapter is framed with Scripture selections, combined with John Paul II quotations and prayers. The book is designed to create a reading experience modeled on lectio divina or sacred reading, encouraging reflection and prayer that will allow the pope's words to penetrate the mind and heart of the reader.