Freedom Under God

By Fulton J. Sheen Two extremes beset the modern world: a decaying liberalism which idolizes the individual and scorns society, and a triumphant totalitarianism which idolizes society and scorns the individual. In her wisdom, the Church firmly rejects both these extremes and upholds in their place, a “Truth which is inseparable from the purpose of man; namely, union with his final end, who is God.” In Freedom Under God, Fulton J. Sheen sets forth the Church’s program for man and society, applying the perennial principles of revelation and the Church’s wisdom on the true nature of liberty to modern problems regarding labor and ownership, the economic systems of communism and capitalism, governments and political free­dom, human dignity and the necessity of sacrifice and asceticism. At the time of its original publication in 1940, Sheen’s well-reasoned, persuasive presentation was welcomed as a tonic assurance of truth in the face of “dying lib­eralism and growing dictatorship.” With subsequent years bringing little in the way of change to societal and governmental conditions, Freedom Under God maintains its original distinction in establishing that true liberty is to be found—as Pope Leo XIII observed—in a life lived according to law and right reason. Only when God is relevant does man begin to be free. (Fulton J. Sheen)   Fulton J. Sheen (1895–1979) was one of the most renowned Catholic priests of the twentieth century. An eminent scholar, prolific author, and natural entertainer, Sheen provided insight into the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith for millions around the world through his scores of books and countless radio and television programs. His cause for canonization was opened in 2002, and in 2012 Pope Benedict XVI declared him “Venerable.” * * * Paperback: 246pp. ISBN: 978-1685953416