Stephan Otto Horn Book order (chronological)

Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, has been the most visible member of the Catholic clergy in the world second only to Pope John Paul II. His status as the head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith made him one of the most discussed churchmen in recent history.On the occasion of Ratzingers's seventy-fifth birthday, his former students selected essays, lectures, letters, and conferences that Ratzinger has written in recent years― writing that they feel best represents his position on issues of theology, the modern world, secularism, non-Christian religious, and other key topics of the Catholic Church. This book, characterized by Ratzinger's concisely reasoned style, is an invaluable resource to those who wish to understand the modern Church and the thinking of Pope Benedict XVI, as well as a treasured volume for those who are students of Ratzinger's theology.

According to the Second Vatican Council, "We ought to try to discover a new reverence for the Eucharistic mystery." This statement emphasizes that the significance of the Eucharist transcends our actions; our efforts serve the greater act that precedes our own. The liturgy is both the pinnacle of the Church's activity and the source of its power. This profound understanding of the Eucharist is explored in depth by Cardinal Ratzinger in a collection of previously unpublished texts. As the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Ratzinger, an esteemed scholar, guides readers into the core of the Christian faith and its central mystery. He examines the biblical, historical, and theological aspects of the Eucharist while highlighting the importance of personal devotion and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Ratzinger asserts that the transformation of the world on a social level is rooted in the celebration of the Eucharist. He illustrates how the omnipotent God and Creator draws near to us in the Holy Eucharist, which he describes as the Heart of Life. This exploration invites readers to deepen their understanding and appreciation of this sacred mystery.

Čtyři příspěvky předních německých katolických teologů, kteří se zabývají otázkami papežského primátu, dějinnými podobami petrovského úřadu a papežstvím jako politickou mocí.