The Best Catholic Writing 2006

The "best of" collections can often appear contrived and forced, but Doyle, writer and three-time editor of this Loyola Press series, avoids such pitfalls. Drawing upon works from a variety of genres, Doyle assembles a truly "catholic" compilation. Included with the thought-provoking essays and articles are inspired poems by Mary Oliver and Seamus Heaney, alongside a true sign of the times—excerpts from Web logs ("blogs"). Kudos to Doyle for recognizing the creativity and vitality within this modern electronic medium. Catholicism, Doyle believes, should not be afraid of contemporary culture. Nor should it be afraid of a variety of perspectives. Doyle includes an impassioned article by Peggy Noonan, former speechwriter for George H.W. Bush, with a Thomas Aquinas–inspired spoof called "The Existence of Chuck Norris" by ordained Protestant minister Douglas Beaumont. Other highlights from this collection include Orbis Press editor-in-chief Robert Ellsberg on Dorothy Day, funeral director and essayist Thomas Lynch on his relatives in Ireland, and Jesuit George Coyne's religion and science apologia. In his introduction, Doyle posits, "there's a stunning amount of terrific Catholic writing." He has managed to sift through much of it and find the cream of the crop. (Oct.)