Synopses & Reviews
Designed to give readers a simple but accurate idea of a Latin expression, this dictionary compiles, translates, and briefly explains the phrases found in theological writings and canon law that may puzzle readers unfamiliar with Latin or the theological meaning and nuances of these terms.
Consecrated phrases refer to expressions which are used, often in shorthand manner, to express a certain theological position or thought, which express a significant position of Roman Catholic sacramental theology as defined at the Council of Trent. Often these terms appear in a given theological text with little or no translation or explanation. Consecrated Phrases provides that explanation in concise and understandable language.
Entries are listed according to the form most likely to be used in the expressions themselves as found in theological writings. Each entry begins with a literal" translation of the Latin term or phrase and then provides a brief explanation on the theological meaning or significance of the term. While most of the entries contain theological, liturgical, canonical, or philosophical terms primarily from the Roman Catholic tradition, important expressions in the various Protestant traditions are also included, as well as a number of common classical aphorisms, Latin titles of many Church documents, and some common scholarly abbreviations.
Consecrated Phrases is a valuable reference for anyone interested in theology at al levels. James T. Bretzke, SJ, is an assistant professor of fundamental Christian ethics at the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley."
Review
James Bretzke's Latin theological dictionary should be in every theological student's basic reference library. . . . The definitions are clearly and concisely written and Bretzke uses excellent examples to illustrate some of the more difficult concepts.Robert E. Manning, S.J., President, Weston Jesuit School of Theology
Review
This new reference work fills a void as no other theological work has in a very handy, accessible and satisfying way. Students have been asking for a book like this for years. This new dictionary should become a standard resource in every theological student's reference library.Richard M. Gula, S.S., Professor of Moral Theology, Franciscan School of Theology, Berkeley
Review
For anyone working in Christian theology who lacks this degree of linguistic sophistication, Consecrated Phrases is a welcome desk aid.Catholic Library World
Synopsis
Consecrated Phrases has been a standard and valued reference work for theology students for many years. This new third edition is expanded by more than fifty percent from the previous edition. It includes many new entries, while entries from earlier editions have been expanded and extensively cross-referenced. The resulting volume functions better as a reliable guide to translation and a primer on the tradition out of which the consecrated phrases arose. The third edition contains many entries from canon and civil law, as well as terms from philosophy and theology.
While Latin has often been called a dead language," Consecrated Phrases demonstrates convincingly that the tradition continues not just to live but to thrive. This book will aid generations of students yet to come in understanding, appropriating, and developing the best of that tradition.
About the Author
James T. Bretzke, SJ, STD, is associate professor of theology and religious studies at the University of San Francisco, and an adjunct professor of moral theology at the Jesuit School of Theology-at-Berkeley. He has written three