John XXII and Papal Teaching Authority

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Year:
Pages:308
ISBN:0-88946-815-X
978-0-88946-815-3
Price:$219.95 + shipping
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A careful study of John XXII's decree Quia quorundam mentes (1324), which was issued against some Spiritual Franciscans. Presents: the historical background; a translation of the decree with commentary on it; a careful analysis of Brian Tierney's theory of a "gulf between the ecclesiology of medieval canonists and the ecclesiology of Vatican I"; and a discussion of the importance of John XXII for papal infallibility today.

Reviews

"This study contributes both historically and theologically to the discussion of the pope's infallible teaching office. Heft weaves historical and theological data and perspectives into a whole fabric . . . .The great strength and contribution of Heft's work lies in its clear illustration . . . of the interpenetration of history and theology . . . . Finally, Heft's work is further enriched by his placing his discussion of papal teaching authority in the context of the ecumenical dialogues on Church authority and by his conscious effort to contribute to furthering these dialogues. He has succeeded in straightening up some of the clutter left in the ecumenical household after Hans Küng's treatment of papal infallibility." - The Thomist

". . . should be of considerable interest to historians of medieval thought and to theologians, both Catholic and non-Catholic . . . . Heft develops his argument clearly and cogently . . . . what Heft has to say should provide considerable stimulus for further discussion." - The Catholic Historical Review

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