Although many older Catholics are familiar with the cult of the saints, veneration of saints is for many younger Catholics a lost tradition. Yet this remarkably clear, deeply researched book offers a path through biblical, historical, and systematic aspects of the communion of saints in which those canonized play special roles. This study follows Vatican II s view of the saints as companions, models, and intercessors that the saints guide us through both the inspiration of their holy lives and their roles in the afterlife. With a comprehensive introduction to the Catholic Church s history of venerating saints, each subsequent study emphasizes the rediscovery of the meaning of veneration and is designed for both academic instruction and personal use. Each chapter also includes a list of important terms and suggestions for additional reading."
