Much more than a simple retelling of history, A Friendly Guide to Jewish-Christian Relations explores the meaning and implications of Jesus being Jewish and traces key moments and aspects of Christianity through a Jewish-Christian lens.
It begins by examining the context in which Jesus lived: a context consisting not only of religious affiliation, but also of the historical, political and social culture that shaped his humanity.
It tells of the supersessionist theology that prevailed among Christians after Jesus’ death, whereby the Church saw itself as replacing Judaism, as well as the many troubled times there have been over the millennia, marked by misunderstandings, power imbalances and even hatred.
It recounts the more recent changes in Christian attitudes, as dialogue with Jews and reflection on the past and present have led the Catholic Church to adjust its stance on Judaism, and other religions, in new ways based on respect.
Written before 7 October 2023, the book ultimately sets out to help Christians deepen their self-understanding and contribute to long-term world peace as they learn to dialogue, to listen and to speak respectfully and attentively, in mutual interfaith relationships.
Sr Mary Reaburn currently teaches at Yarra Theological Union (YTU) in Box Hill, Australia. She is a member of the Australian Catholic Bishops’ Council for Ecumenism and Religious Relations with Jews and was involved for seven years in the Centre for Biblical Formation in Jerusalem.
Mary is also author of A Friendly Guide to the Book of Psalms in Garratt Publishing’s “Friendly Guide” series.
Listen to an interview with Sister Mary about the book which was aired on Good Friday on ABC Radio National.
Garratt Publishing website