Denis Hurley OMI is widely regarded as the most influential South African Catholic in modern times. He was the youngest bishop in the world when appointed in 1946 and the longest serving when he retired 45 years later.
Throughout his life, Denis Hurley was a prolific writer of letters. The 251 letters chosen for this volume range from 1926 when the young Denis was 11 years old at boarding school, to 2004 when the Archbishop, aged 88, died suddenly on 13 February.
The letters reveal Hurley's personality and emotions, his views on politics, theology, spirituality and reform of the Church. They show his fanatical interest in sport and a sparkling sense of humour. They include correspondence with family, friends, and people who sought his advice and support (including Pope Paul VI, Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Albert Luthuli, and others).
The letters give a unique insight into the dramatic events in church (Vatican II and its aftermath) and state (apartheid in South Africa and the difficult birth of a new democracy).
2018
Paperback
