In this commentary on the revised English translation of The Order of Penance, Paul Turner explains in detail how the sacrament of renewal has itself undergone renewal since the first edition approved shortly after the Second Vatican Council. Turner highlights important elements within the revised translation including: the history behind the revised order of service and the words of absolution; an explanation of how and why the ceremony was revised after the Council; changes for communal reconciliation services; and the first translation of proposed examinations of conscience to prepare a community for reconciliation. This commentary invites all Catholics to consider the sacrament anew by preparing a spiritual path upon which the faithful may walk in search of forgiveness and experience a profound encounter with the mercy of God.
Industry Reviews
"Be healed, be reconciled, be forgiven are the usual ways I have thought about the Sacrament of Penance, but Fr. Turner's title Be Renewed offers more than a one-time experience of this sacrament. His presentation of the extended history shows the efforts through the ages to make this an opportunity of spiritual and personal change, growth, and renewal. Beyond the central act of confession of sin and absolution, the various examples of penance services and examination of conscience opens doorways to invite the kind of blessing, comfort and personal peace offered by the communal prayer of the Church. This is an excellent resource for faith formation for all age groups in the Church."
Sister Lois Paha, OP, DMin, Director of Formation and Liturgy for the Diocese of Tucson
"Fr. Paul Turner's Be Renewed is an essential resource for all who work in pastoral ministry. Practical, informative, and engaging, this book provides the detailed and gentle guidance needed to celebrate the sacrament well. It demystifies terms, concepts, and structures and equips pastoral ministers to confidently provide for and promote reconciliation. Be Renewed will surely become a regular reference for confessors, catechists, directors of religious education, liturgists, and all who contribute to the faithful's understanding and experience of the Order of Penance."
Matthew Reichert, Director of the Center for Learning, Oregon Catholic Press
"Once again Father Paul Turner has expertly blended fine scholarship with keen pastoral skill. Thoroughly documented, Be Renewed offers parishioners and priests alike a comprehensive study of the new (2023) English translation of the Church's three rites of sacramental reconciliation and penance services. Father Turner provides a bonus resource by including his translation of the nine forms of an examination of conscience set in the context of a liturgical service-texts found in the draft of the revision but replaced by alternate texts in the published edition. Be Renewed offers much understanding, insight, and encouragement to those approaching the sacrament 'from either side of the screen.'"
Rt. Rev. Kurt Stasiak, OSB, Archabbot of Saint Meinrad Archabbey
"Turner's guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation provides a thorough historical examination of the revision of the Order of Penance. Its meticulous detail makes it an excellent resource for students of liturgy, and it should be considered essential reading for seminary students and confessors seeking a deeper understanding of this sacrament."
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