Off the Cuff and Over the Collar

Book excerpt: Bishop John McCarthy's book, "Off the Cuff & Over the Collar: Common Sense Catholicism" is an enticing concoction of "Tuesdays with Morrie" blended with "Catholicism 101," topped with an added twist of Irish wit and decades of experience as a Roman Catholic priest. In over fifty bite-sized pieces, McCarthy clearly defines the Church's position and as always, openly voices his opinions- including where they begin to diverge from recent years' public stance of the Vatican. He addresses a variety of topics such as the infallibility of the Pope, abortion, divorce, saints, sacraments, bullying and teasing, nuns, Jews and Protestants. McCarthy tackles the shortage of priests, celibacy, homosexuality, birth control, the role of women in the Church, death and dying, and even heaven and hell, skillfully balancing the serious nature of these issues with his relaxed conversational tone and humor. Bishop John McCarthy speaks from the depth of his heart and faith, reaching out not only to currently practicing Catholics, but also to the millions of fallen away Catholics- the hurt, the disenfranchised, the indifferent, the divorced, the homosexual, the questioning agnostic, the liberals and the conservatives- even the self-professed "recovered Catholics." McCarthy fully embraces the wonderful Apostolic Church that was envisioned in Vatican II, and stands ready to ""throw open those magnificent doors to the heart of the Catholic Church, and invite you in with love and joy."" Bishop McCarthy is buoyantly optimistic that the Church- though she moves slowly and deliberately- is ready for change, especially under the leadership of the Pope Francis, to whom this book is dedicated. The new pope's immediate focus on simplification and service suggest indeed, a very common sense Catholicism. All profits from this book will benefit one of Bishop McCarthy's favorite charities: Saint Louise House... "empowering women with children to overcome homelessness." Sister Sharon Groetsch, D.C., says: "Bishop McCarthy's book is a wonderful response to a pressing need for ordinary Catholics (and the "Catholic-curious") to bring simple, direct insights to the lay-public. Moreover, it's fun The Bishop's style is conversational, clear, and well-laced with Irish humor. This is a quick and easy read, and a perfect pairing with your morning coffee." Rabbi Alan R. Freedman, Temple Beth Shalom, says: "In an age when religion is increasingly coming under attack, John McCarthy has come forth with a book that is a resounding treatise on the virtues of a life of faith . While addressed to a primarily Catholic audience, Bishop McCarthy provides observations and lessons on life that apply to all people of faith. His lifelong concern for all people is reflected in every page, "particularly in his consistent admonition to avoid bringing pain to others." There is a life lesson on every page of this book, and I encourage anyone seeking to live a better and more meaningful life to share in its words. The good Bishop has done it again " Rev. Larry Covington, Pastor of St. Louis Catholic Church, says: "Required reading for all current and former Catholics, and especially for seminarians and anyone engaged in the ministry Here lies no pontification of a prelate long ensconced in a purple silk bureaucracy, but practical words for the common Joe. McCarthy's common sense observations reflect his life as a provocative and sometimes controversial church leader who is, above all, a man who takes the task of being a good shepherd to heart."