Ambrose Mong, PhD, serves as an assistant parish priest and academic, delving into the complex intersections of imperialism, evangelism, and utopian thought. His work critically examines how Eastern and Western visions of ideal societies have been shaped by historical forces and theological perspectives. With a deep understanding of diverse religious and philosophical traditions, Mong offers insightful analyses of the interplay between faith, power, and the pursuit of a better world. His writings provide a nuanced exploration of these profound themes.
The critique of Joseph Ratzinger's theology emphasizes the significance of non-European theological perspectives, particularly in the context of the Asian church. It addresses the disconnect between dogmatic faith and the pastoral challenges faced in Asia, highlighting the struggle of Asian theologians to be recognized within a predominantly Western framework. While acknowledging Ratzinger's insights on secularism and faith crises in Europe, the book advocates for a tailored approach to theology and pastoral care that reflects the realities of religious pluralism in Asia.
Exploring the complexities of folk Catholicism, this book highlights its dual role as both a tool for combating injustice and a means for the powerful to maintain control. Through various case studies, it reveals how popular religious beliefs and practices have been co-opted by the middle and upper classes to safeguard their privileges, while also showcasing the potential of these traditions to challenge oppression. The text delves into the ongoing influence of dominant ideologies within popular religion, illustrating the intricate relationship between faith and social power.
Focusing on forgiveness and reconciliation, this work delves into the aftermath of political conflicts, civil wars, and genocide. It analyzes case studies and initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and healing. Highlighting the role of religion as a potential force for peace, the book emphasizes the intertwined nature of justice and forgiveness, arguing that true peace requires both. It underscores the fragility of human justice and advocates for a respectful approach that incorporates forgiveness to mend and restore relationships.
Exploring the complex history between the Chinese government and the Roman Catholic Church, this book delves into the evolving dynamics of Sino-Vatican relations. It highlights the Church's initial denunciation of Communism and the subsequent efforts for dialogue by recent popes, including John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis. Offering valuable insights into the state-church relationship and the Communist regime's stance on religion, this work is essential for understanding Christianity's role in contemporary China.
Exploring the concept of paradise, this research delves into the visions of harmonious societies throughout history, from ancient China to Renaissance Europe. Ambrose Mong examines the writings of significant thinkers, including Thomas More, Teilhard de Chardin, Confucius, and Kang Youwei, highlighting their contributions to utopian ideas. This work bridges Eastern and Western philosophies, offering a comprehensive perspective on the pursuit of peace and community across cultures and eras.
Exploring the interplay between religion and culture, this book delves into the dynamics of religious commitment and tolerance in a pluralistic society. Ambrose Mong critically analyzes attitudes towards various faiths, highlighting sociological aspects and the importance of inter-religious dialogue. Key themes include the challenges faced by traditional religions, the relationship between monotheism and polytheism, and the historical context of tolerance and intolerance within the church, all while considering the implications of secularism for the future.
Some of the greatest works of Western literature have been inspired or influenced by powerful Christian themes. In this fresh evaluation of this relationship and its development over the last two millennia, Ambrose Mong studies a series of authors representative of the changing epochs. Augustine, Dante and Milton all wrote to serve the needs of the Christian community, and combine their religious themes with scholarly excellence. Meanwhile Shakespeare’s plays and Coleridge’s The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, though not specific to the Christian faith, nevertheless betray the dominant Christian values and imagery of their time. Finally, in Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov and Greene’s The Power and the Glory, Christianity is put under scrutiny, reflecting the increasing insecurity of its place in society. Throughout, Mong also shows that the themes in these works are to a certain extent universal. Creation, sin, suffering and forgiveness are perennial human concerns, beyond the exclusive purview of Christianity, and these texts serve to challenge Christian assumptions as much as they are influenced by them. Always thorough and sensitive to the unique context of each writer, Mong’s analysis provides an important grounding in the way Western literature has shaped and been shaped by the religion of its day.
