Virtues for Ordinary Christians

In "Virtues for Ordinary Christians," James F. Keenan (a Jesuit and professor of moral theology) approaches Christian ethics by means of the traditional virtues of Catholic teaching, focusing on their application to our "ordinary" lives. After an introductory section, each chapter deals with a different virtue. But rather than discuss each virtue encyclopedically, Prof. Keenan chooses one, sometimes surprising, angle to help us understand how each virtue can play a role in our lives. Prof. Keenan has a very readable, conversational style, and he rewards the reader with numerous "aha!" moments. I found his chapters on the three theological virtues and his chapter on fidelity especially helpful. My only quibble is that the book's overall effect makes complacency a little too easy. I say this because Prof. Keenan's discussions of such contemporary concerns as self-esteem and physical fitness can give the reader excuses for avoiding the challenges posed by faith, humility, and charity. I think one could easily come away from this book thinking that, on balance, one is already doing everything fine and has no need to improve. Nevertheless, I do consider that just a quibble. This book is certainly worth reading by all of us "ordinary" Christians. The Kindle edition has no problems that I noticed. It has a linked table of contents; the book itself has no footnotes.