Why are we here? : everyday questions and the Christian life /

Thiemann (dean, Harvard Divinity Sch.) and Placher (contemporary theology and philosophy of religion, Wabash Coll.) have collaborated with nine friends, all fellow theologians and graduates of Yale, to contribute these essays regarding Christian faith. Written from Catholic and Protestant, pastoral and lay viewpoints, these explorations probe a range of essential issues such as the purpose of life, the problem of suffering, Jesus as the sole means of salvation, the existence of angels, reasons for attending church, teaching children about God, the concept of hell, work, and life after death. Taken together, these essays bear a unity of conviction that arises from a clear and genuine spirit of inquiry. Non-Christians will find this a helpful introduction to Christian beliefs in everyday practice, and thoughtful Christians will read it with the recognition that simple answers don't suffice. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.