Richard M. Gula, SS
144 pages
Paulist Press, 1999
Retail Price: $9.95
See Amazon's discounted price

A simple, direct introduction to the Christian moral life based on the conviction that morality and spirituality converge when we explore the sort of persons we ought to become and the sort of lives we ought to lead by virtue of our commitment to God.

Lucid, concise, and without jargon, this book will make wonderful reflective reading for persons without a background in moral theology. It is a powerful antidote to the strain of living in a consumer society.

From the Publisher
Based on the conviction that morality and spirituality converge when we explore the sort of persons we ought to become and the sort of lives we ought to lead, The Good Life provides a simple, direct introduction to the Christian moral life. Richard Gula draws on four of the great biblical themes of Christian morality and spirituality to light up a vision of life and those virtues that constitute the biblical life. Lucid, concise, and without jargon, this book will make for reflective reading and is a powerful antidote to the strain of living in a consumer society.

About the Author
Richard M. Gula, SS, who holds a Ph.D. from the University of St. Michaelís College, Toronto, is Professor of Moral Theology at the Franciscan School of Theology, Berkeley, CA. He is the author of several other books, including Ethics in Pastoral Ministry and Moral Discernment.

Review
It seems that works dealing with Christian morality all too often lead the reader into the murky waters of moral conundrums. Though certainly of value, such books are often dense and unmanageable for those lacking formal training in theology. However, occasionally one comes across a book that is insightful, challenging and accessible to a broad audience. Readable and substantial, Richard Gulaís The Good Life is a gem that bids all to prayerfully journey to the nexus of morality and spirituality.

Gula, a professor of moral theology, does not seek to present answers to sophisticated ethical questions, but rather encourages the reader to develop the virtues necessary for living the ìgood life.î Far from presenting a legalistic approach to morality, he engages the reader in a quest for the recovery of the giftedness that makes possible a mature faith response to the challenges that come with being a Christian. In naming the essential virtues of dignity, humility, gratitude, self-esteem, justice, solidarity, fidelity, trust, hope, forgiveness, and hospitality, Gula suggests guideposts that lead the disciple along the path marked by faith. At the same time, he suggests that only amidst a community is such grace offered, embraced and shared. Anything but a solo journey, friendship with God continually calls for engagement with others and all of creation. Though Gula makes clear that living in Godís love is risky business (our own transformation is assured), he also reminds the reader that true happiness becomes attainable only when one surrenders selfish desires and individualistic attitudes for the sake of others.

More than simply a primer on the moral life, The Good Life invites its readers to a prayerful examination of Christian discipleship. Gulaís frequent use of scripture provides a foundation for the primary concepts presented. The ìspiritual exercisesî at the end of each chapter provide helpful guides for further reflection and make the book excellent for use within small faith communities. Recalling the authorís emphasis on the role the faith community plays in living the good life, this book may be most satisfying and enlightening if explored and digested within the context of a small group. Additionally, catechists working with children and adults should find this book to be a wonderful resource for deepening their understanding of the basics of Christian morality. Whatever oneís level of previous theological formation, The Good Life promises to be a nourishing read.