Faith and Culture has become a field of crucial importance in recent years. Clashing Symbols breaks new ground
in presenting a wide area of reflection on the relationship between faith and the powerful cultural contexts surrounding
believers today. Michael Paul Gallagher introduces readers to the main insights, theories, and controversies being
discussed by individuals and church bodies.
Early chapters discuss the many meanings of culture, then specifically religious responses to culture, focusing
on Vatican II and resolutions from the World Council of Churches. Themes concerning modernity and postmodernity
are explored in detail, especially from a religious point of view. The final four chapters deal with more pastoral
themes: the challenges of inculturation, discernment, youth ministry and the outlines of a spirituality for today's
culture.
Drawing on the work of some of the leading thinkers in the field, this clearly written work is a natural for specialists
and academics. It will also be valuable for anyone who wishes to understand the increasing relevance of culture
for theology and for religious commitment today. In addition, it will also help "ordinary" Christians
to understand the realities and challenges of contemporary culture with wisdom, with confidence, and in the light
of faith.