Reviews
"This is both a ground-breaking and contemporary commentary based on traditional sources from the Bible through to contemporary philosophers, theologians, and poets. It is to be savored, not read, and should be an extraordinarily valuable resource for catechumens, candidates, and sponsors especially during Lent preceding their joining the Church at Easter."
Kevin W. Irwin, Dean Emeritus, School of Theology and Religious Studies, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.
"We say that the Easter Vigil is the very center of the year's liturgy but have we any idea why? Often it reduced to being just a slightly longer Saturday vigil Mass. This book by Boselli is not a 'how to' book for improving celebrations, but rather seeks out the depths of why this night is so important to us. Using the themes of fire, light, word, water, and table he explores what Passover—Resurrection mean to us in a theological poetry. This is a book to savor and discover—and it will make us long for better actual celebrations."
Thomas O'Loughlin, Professor Emeritus of Historical Theology, The University of Nottingham
"Look, if the date and time of the next Easter Vigil in your parish is not already reserved on your personal calendar, there may not be much I can do for you. But read this book. It will reorient your calendar. And your life—if you’re brave enough to change."
Fr. Paul Turner, pastor of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Kansas City MO, author of Glory in the Cross: Holy Week in the Third Edition of the Roman Missal
"Goffredo Boselli’s Fire of Love, Water of Life celebrates the 'Mother of all Vigils' in a riot of pascal colors: the Christian mystery born in the darkness of fire, proclamation, water and sacrament. With an excellent and very readable translation by Barry Hudock, the author unspools the centrality of the liturgical expression of faith in Christ’s resurrection at the heart of this night of nights. After exploring this fine work, I could not help carrying the Christian community’s exultant witness in my heart as an indelible sign of God’s enduring love and covenant. This text serves as a superb inspiration for any Catholic Christian and of great practical use to pastors and catechists shepherding those in the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults."
Guerric DeBona, OSB, Professor of Homiletics, Saint Meinrad School of Theology
"Boselli takes all the essential symbols of the Easter Vigil and explains the meaning of them, going beyond the usual understanding. These deeper meanings will add new life to all who will experience this holiest of nights. This book is ideal for everyone in the parish who prepare for the Easter Vigil (priests, liturgy committees, art and environment, liturgical ministers) as well as for adult faith formation."
Sr. Jeanne M. Wiest, OP, PhD, Director of Worship, Diocese of St. Cloud, Minnesota