PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Jon M. Sweeney is an independent scholar and one of religion's most respected writers. His many books include James Martin, SJ: In the Company of Jesus, in the People of God series; The Pope Who Quit, which was optioned by HBO; and The Pope's Cat, a popular fiction series for children. He edited A Course in Christian Mysticism by Thomas Merton, published by Liturgical Press. Sweeney writes regularly for America in the US, and The Tablet in the UK. He is the publisher at Paraclete Press in Massachusetts, and lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with his wife and daughters.
In our time of huge religious and cultural division, Sweeney's book gently but powerfully offers a way forward. Amid a plethora of diverse and conflicting narratives, author Jon M. Sweeney presents the rich spiritual legacy of Nicholas Black Elk with straightforward clarity for novice readers. In so doing, the author draws upon the scholarship of numerous authors, from Nebraska poet laureate John G. Neihardt to anthropologist Raymond D. DeMallie and religious studies scholar Michael F. Steltenkamp, SJ, among others. He deftly introduces young Black Elk's great childhood vision, his tireless support for his people's wellbeing, and his lifelong quest to better know and serve the Great Spirit. With diverse examples, the author explains how Black Elk embraced Christianity and pursued a robust catechetical career among his people while grounded in his Lakota culture and identity. This important, informative book honors the complexities of conversion and inculturation. It will be an inspiring read for any spiritual seeker. Servant of God Nicholas Black Elk lived a complex life during a complicated time. Jon Sweeney skillfully relates the monumental cultural and spiritual losses the Lakota people endured from US governmental colonialism as he simultaneously traces Black Elk's lifelong quest of the Holy. From a transcendent childhood vision to a Native healing practice to Catholic baptism and ministry, Black Elk walked his own 'good red road' as a Lakota Catholic, integrating both faith traditions into his spirituality. Readers may come away understanding that this holy man-who prayed comfortably with both a Rosary and a pipe-well deserves to be named the first US Native American male saint. Sweeney harnesses his gifts as a storyteller and puts Nicholas Black Elk where he belongs: with the greatest saints and mystics of the Christian tradition. A book for everyone, whether those looking for an introduction to Black Elk's life or experts looking to see unseen facets of his witness. Pope Francis has challenged all of the baptized to understand themselves as missionary disciples. If we are looking for modern saints to pattern ourselves after, there are few more profound examples of missionary discipleship than Nicholas Black Elk. St. Anthony's Messenger This book is a quick read, which gives a well-researched snapshot of both the real history and the personal story of a remarkable man. Catholic Books Review This book is highly recommended as an introduction into the life and cause of Nicholas Black Elk and Lakota life. Benet Exton, OSB, Sooner Catholic
