Christianity in Evolution

"It requires commitment and stamina, but those who summon up these qualities will be richly rewarded. For it shows, for once, Christianity looking forward in partnership with the modern world of science, rather than holding itself aloof and apart in a time warp."—Peter Stanford, The Independent UK

"A stimulating exploration, and one well worth adding to the Wish List for readers interested in the religion/science debates."—Forbes

"There is much here to admire, and some sections—Mahoney's discussion of altruism; his critique of other evolutionary theologies—provide invaluable discussions. Mahoney raises again the question of how far it is necessary, or advisable, to reconstruct our theology in the light of modern science, but his work also raises questions as to how far science can aid this project. Mahoney's passion for his work, however, is evident, which makes Christianity in Evolution a stimulating, if sometimes infuriating, read."—THEOLOGY

"Offers real challenges to contemporary theology, above all in demanding that theology address evolution honestly and full on."—WORSHIP MAGAZINE

"Conversing with theology from the patristic to the modern age, Mahoney's book is sure to be debated in the classroom as an alternative voice in contemporary theology."—Choice

"The kind of project that Mahoney pursues is desperately needed in theology. Let us hope that the discussion his book is likely to produce generates further detailed reflection on these pressing questions."—Reviews in Religion and Theology

"This is a very important work in the challenges it places to the traditional interpretation of Church dogmas, especially those to do with original sin, the image of God, and God's purpose in Creation and in the Incarnation. It provides a very good historical review of various dogmas before reinterpreting each dogma in the light of scientific evolution. I do not know of any other work that does this so thoroughly."—George V. Coyne, SJ, president, Vatican Observatory Foundation

"This challenging and readable book is the work of a scholar who is theologically well-informed, aware of previous and contemporary discussions of the need for theological development in view of evolutionary science, and skillful in suggesting alternatives to traditional formulations of Christian teaching. Mahoney's work should stimulate much fruitful theological discussion. Strongly recommended."—John F. Haught, senior fellow in science and religion, Woodstock Theological Center, Georgetown University

"Jack Mahoney's Christianity in Evolution presents a courageous and intellectually honest attempt to face the theological implications of the undeniable fact of human evolution. His carefully crafted assessment of various evolutionary accounts of morality for Christian ethics is a gem of concise analysis. His novel way of highlighting the altruistic dimensions of the imago Dei, Jesus' command of neighbor-love, and Trinitarian communion challenges Christian ethicists to take more seriously the theological basis of their discipline. [This book] represents a new stage in the encounter of theology with evolutionary thinking, but it should be read not only by theologians but by any Christian seeking to develop an intellectually engaged faith."—Stephen J. Pope, professor of theological ethics, Boston College