About the book
New York Times–bestselling author Garry Wills provides a provocative analysis of the theological and historical basis for the priesthood
In a riveting and provocative tour de force from the author of What Jesus Meant, Pulitzer Prize winner Garry Wills poses the challenging question: Why did the priesthood develop in a religion that began without it and, indeed, was opposed to it? Why Priests? argues brilliantly and persuasively for a radical re-envisioning of the role of the church as the Body of Christ and for a new and better understanding of the very basis of Christian belief. As Wills emphasizes, the stakes for the writer and the church are high, for without the priesthood there would be no belief in an apostolic succession, the real presence in the Eucharist, the sacrificial interpretation of the Mass, and the ransom theory of redemption. This superb study of the origins of the priesthood stands as Wills’s towering achievement and will be of interest to all inquiring minds, believers and non-believers alike.
Editions of Why Priests?
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780670024872
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780143124399
- EBook
- ISBN 9781101606018
Read an Excerpt
New York Times–bestselling author Garry Wills provides a provocative analysis of the theological and historical basis for the priesthood
In a riveting and provocative tour de force from the author of What Jesus Meant, Pulitzer Prize winner Garry Wills poses the challenging question: Why did the priesthood develop in a religion that began without it and, indeed, was opposed to it? Why Priests? argues brilliantly and persuasively for a radical re-envisioning of the role of the church as the Body of Christ and for a new and better understanding of the very basis of Christian belief. As Wills emphasizes, the stakes for the writer and the church are high, for without the priesthood there would be no belief in an apostolic succession, the real presence in the Eucharist, the sacrificial interpretation of the Mass, and the ransom theory of redemption. This superb study of the origins of the priesthood stands as Wills’s towering achievement and will be of interest to all inquiring minds, believers and non-believers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Why Priests? about?
New York Times–bestselling author Garry Wills provides a provocative analysis of the theological and historical basis for the priesthood
In a riveting and provocative tour de force from the author of What Jesus Meant, Pulitzer Prize winner Garry Wills poses the challenging question: Why did the priesthood develop in a religion that began without it and, indeed, was opposed to it? Why Priests? argues brilliantly and persuasively for a radical re-envisioning of the role of the church as the Body of Christ and for a new and better understanding of the very basis of Christian belief. As Wills emphasizes, the stakes for the writer and the church are high, for without the priesthood there would be no belief in an apostolic succession, the real presence in the Eucharist, the sacrificial interpretation of the Mass, and the ransom theory of redemption. This superb study of the origins of the priesthood stands as Wills’s towering achievement and will be of interest to all inquiring minds, believers and non-believers alike.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Why Priests??
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Christianity > Christian Churches, denominations, groups > Roman Catholicism, Roman Catholic Church
Where can I read a sample of Why Priests??
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780670024872
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Why Priests??
Garry Wills
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Why Priests? is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780670024872) and paperback(ISBN 9780143124399) and ebook(ISBN 9781101606018)
Where can I buy Why Priests? online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Why Priests? from below
Where can I buy Why Priests??