A CATHOLIC SOCIOLOGIST

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Santa Fe, New Mexico

 This week we look at the essence of Catholicism as described by Andrew Greeley, priest, novelist, and sociologist. A Catholic who follows the line set by Vatican II in the 1960's, his profile demonstrates God in all things and an independence from the structural restraints adhered to by the higher clergy of his faith. During his interview by Judy Valente, Greeley states his views below.



What is the essence of Catholicism? "I think it's the stories."

"The kernel is the belief that God is love."

"People have decided they're going to be Catholic on their own terms."

"We don't believe that we have a monopoly on truth...Nobody puts restraints on God. She doesn't like it."

"Once a Catholic, always a Catholic."

"when we have celebrations, God comes and celebrates with us." (female Hispanic Catholic)

Walter Morton for Terra Incognita