Christ in Eclipse: A Clinical Study of the Good Christian

The core message of "Christ in Eclipse" is this: "Christ is the point" (p. 22) . . . of everything in the Church and in our lives.In addition, Sheed writes: "This is what this book is about--'How real is Christ to us, how well do we know him, what strong desire have we to know him better?'" Then in 160 pages, Sheed writes how we achieve this.For well-catechized Catholics and those who have encountered Christ and continue to do so every day, there is probably not too much new to discover in the book. Even so, I think readers will learn much about how to state/talk about what they know so that they can present it in an appealing way to others. I have met some very knowledgeable religious people who do not seem to have a clue about how to share the faith in a way that attracts others to Christ and the Church. The book itself is a good example of how to do it.Frank Sheed published this book in 1978, well before the issuing of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and before recent popes have encouraged us to encounter Christ in our lives. The book filled a vacuum after Vatican II, and still does. The truth is always needed and appreciated. This is a good treatment of that truth, and demonstrates good methodology in doing it.I have used points Sheed makes in this book several times in recent weeks as I have met with our parish St. Vincent de Paul Society members, with the people in our RCIA group, and at a Pax Christi meeting. Sheed reminds us to stay centered on Jesus and to use words people can comprehend. This makes a big difference.

This is a book that deepens our understanding of the sufferings that Jesus underwent to redeem us. At the same time it inspires greater love for Him.