A review of "Parish Cell Communities as Agents of Renewal in the Catholic Church in Ireland: A Sociological Analysis" by Michael Hurley

Abstract

Over the next year or more we can expect to hear the issues of faith renewal and New Evangelisation discussed in various theological and pastoral fora. The next Synod of Bishops will discuss the New Evangelisation and Pope Benedict has set aside a Year of Faith to follow this. In this context the volume under review will prove an interesting resource for those who wish to explore issues of renewal and evangelisa- tion. The book itself is a doctoral thesis, presented at All Hallows College, Dublin. Herein lies its strengths and weaknesses. It retains all the academic apparatus and stylistic features of a doctoral dissertation, which can make it a little tedious for the pastor or popular reader. On the other hand, it holds a wealth of information and pointers for further exploration of the various topics addressed.