Simplicity in Lifestyle

From the author: Simplicity of living is now a challenge for every American follower of Christ. Practical ideas about simplifying lifestyle are needed by every Christian in this affluent nation. Iwrite about this subject with hesitation. A priest or bishop, and even more a woman or man under a religious vow of poverty, does not know personally the unending money problems faced by lay people in contemporary United States of America. We also feel the unending barrage of commercial advertisements telling people that happiness consists of buying more, having more, selling more, making more. But the person in religion is spared the financial worries and pressures of the laity. There is much wisdom in the Gospels and the Church’s tradition, available to help modern Catholics develop proper values in an affluent materialistic society. The impact of all this can be overwhelming, even devastating, on a person’s value system, lifestyle, prayer life and spiritual growth. I suspect that many people would like to hear ideas about the Gospel teachings on simplicity in living. That is what I hope to do in this book. CHAPTERS INCLUDE: -The Challenge from Economic Justice for All -The Example of our Lord Jesus -The Example of Francis of Assisi -Added Reasons for Simplicity in Lifestyle -How Much of this World’s Goods do We Need -The Danger of Having Too Much -Part Two: Using the Good Things in Moderation -Part Three: Why Simplify Your Lifestyle? -Part Four: Why Do You Go Shopping? -Part Five: Four Poor People -Francis of Assisi -Dorothy Day -Bishop Bernard Topel -Mother Teresa of Calcutta -Part Six: A Plan of Action