This book brings theology into the 21st century by its recovery and appropriation of neglected traditions. Its diversity and profundity should make it required reading in any course on Catholic theology.

Dr. Johnson presents does two things rather well in this book: first, she provides an overview of the history of what it means to be a saint within the Christianity, though focusing mostly on the Roman Catholic Church; second, she also discusses why the idea of saints as those who have already dies are an important part of one’s faith story. My interest in the first part ebbed and flowed as this part was focused on issues within Catholicism. It was interesting but not relevant; though I would say for those, who are members of Roman Catholicism their interest might be greater. The second part however, was much more fruitful for me as it examined the relevance of the Communion of saints for all Christians. This does not mean that I would have skipped the first part as I feel that this first part set up the second part. ( )