The Life of Mary of Nazareth (Amorth)
Fr. Gabriele Amorth (1925-2016) is known primarily for his tireless work as the official exorcist of Rome. But he was also a journalist, noted theologian, and biblical scholar. In this book, one of five he wrote about Mary, he retraces the life of the Virgin Mary. Drawing on the Gospels, Catholic Tradition, conciliar documents, and papal teachings, Fr. Amorth accompanies the reader on a veritable Marian itinerary.
Divided into thirty-one chapters, one for each day of the month, the author breaks open the Gospels, particularly Matthew and Luke. As a biblical exegete, Fr. Amorth carefully analyzes the narratives of the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity of Christ, the visit of the Shepherds and Magi, the Presentation in the Temple, the Flight into Egypt, and the return of the Holy Family to Nazareth. From here, Mary lives in "silence" and "hiddenness," where she "kept all these things in her heart"; that is, her knowledge of what is coming - the "Hour," revealed at the Wedding in Cana, when she will witness the death of Christ on the cross and receive her role as Mother of all. But she is also the only one who knew what was coming after Good Friday, the only one of Christ's followers who had hope on Good Saturday.
In addition to the Scriptures, Fr. Amorth explores ancient Marian titles and designations such as the New Eve, Ever-Virgin, the Mother of God, God-bearer (Theotokos), and All Holy. He explains the relatively recent Marian dogmas (with ancient roots) of the Immaculate Conception and Assumption. He also looks at popular devotions, such as keeping Holy Saturdays, Marian apparitions, the Rosary, and even what it means to be consecrated to her.
Intended to be catechetical, a series of reflections follows each chapter. Written in simple and clear language, the book is spiritually and theologically rich. Though the focus is on Mary, Fr. Amorth frequently reminds the reader that devotion to the Mother is to better know the Son. Published originally in Italian as Il Vangelo di Maria (The Gospel of Mary), this book is Fr. Amorth at his best.
Pages: 145
