The Heavens Are Telling the Glory of God

"In this challenging and hopeful volume Dominican theologian Laurie Brink, who has been involved in the formation of newer religious for some years, brings into conversation three topics that are in potentially creative tension among religious today: the diversities and potential complementarity among different cohorts/generations of religious; the diverse influence of the 'new cosmology' on these different cohorts; and her own hopeful vision of their mutual contribution to the emergence of the religious life of the future. Dr. Brink's impressive competence in the first two areas makes her constructive, but perhaps controversial suggestions about the future of the life in the third section, worthy of serious consideration."
Sandra M. Schneiders, IHM, STD, Professor Emerita of New Testament and Spirituality, Santa Clara University
 

"In this readable and intellectually exciting synthesis of science and Christian faith, Laurie Brink shows how communities of religious women may fruitfully integrate the new scientific cosmic story into their spiritual lives. I hope, however, that many other Christian readers also may take this scientifically and theologically informed and inspiring work with them on their own religious journeys."
John Haught, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus, Georgetown University

"Religious life has been in flux since the close of the Second Vatican Council. What was once a static and fixed life has become an open system of emerging communities and ministries. Laurie Brink’s new book brings the heart of religious life into deep dialogue with the sciences in a scholarly and thoughtful way. By weaving together new life in God with new life in the universe, we can begin to appreciate the value of the Gospels with new depth and breadth. This is an important book, as religious communities diminish in size, yet expand with new possibilities of communal and intercommunal life. Framing religious life with a scientific worldview will not detract from the life but expand it in creative and novel ways. The Spirit who calls us into new life in God is breathing through a dynamic and vibrant universe; indeed, God is doing new things throughout the entire cosmos."
Ilia Delio, OSF, Josephine C. Connelly Endowed Chair in Theology, Villanova University
 
"Laurie Brink's well researched and thoughtful book is a much-needed contribution to the conversation regarding the present and future of religious life in the twenty-first century. As a middleton who is also a newer vocation, now serving in elected leadership, I discovered pathways to deeper understanding of the experiences and ecclesiologies of my sisters of all generations. Brink deftly weaves scripture, theology and science to explore an intercultural, unitive, evolutionary, and integrative vision of wholeness for formation, vows, and mission in apostolic religious life."
Susan Francois, CSJP, Assistant Congregation Leader, Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace
"Professor Brink’s book serves as a wonderful primer on the New Cosmology. She brings her considerable biblical exegetical tools to this project as she demonstrates that the New Cosmology does not leave the Bible behind. As every generation must, she rethinks formation, vows, and mission in terms of emerging science (cosmology, Quantum Mechanics, and evolution) as well as traditional theology. She adroitly examines the contribution of contemporary theologians such as Elizabeth Johnson, Ilia Delio, and Denis Edwards to the New Cosmology."
Garrett Galvin, OFM, President of the Franciscan School of Theology
"The book has value for readers in the integration of religion and science and, specifically, in the New Cosmology and its implications for religious life."
Catholic Books Review