Handbook of Notes on Theology

Andrew F. Browne, C.SS.R.

TWENTY-FIRST EDITION
(Thirty-third Thousand)

1962
 FOREWORD

"The proof of the pudding is in the eating." The

"Handbook of Notes on Theology" has stood the test of

seven years. Eight thousand copies issued and a call for a

new edition is evidence enough that it has satisfied many

priests engaged in practical work for the salvation of souls

and the growth of the Mystic Body of Christ.

I have been using the Handbook myself and have

been recommending it ever since its appearance. Its value,

as I see it, is unique. It does not and cannot supplant the

larger and more detailed works on Moral Theology; these

we shall always need, nor is there any intention of dis

couraging their use.

But in the hustle and bustle of priestly life, there is

a distinct place for a book of handy reference and quick

response in the problems that are apt to occur in every
day practice..

Three things are required especially for writing such

a Handbook. In the first place, experience, which enables

the author to know which are the questions that most
frequently come up. In the second place, good judgment,
in order to state as concisely as possible the best opinions.
And thirdly, restraint. For there is no doubt that a man
who knows his theology has many a temptation to add
and expand. We like to show how much we know.
The demand for this Handbook is evidence enough that the author's experience is
quite true and typical. It vouches equally for the soundness of the opinions adopted.
.While the fact. this little book does not exceed a hundred pages is proof of wise
restraint. It is a Handbook of Notes. just that.
For these reasons the book appears as a unique achievement, with a special
value for the busy priest. And i t is safe : every proposition in it was subjected to
the closest scrutiny. It is so concise, every word counts. The bold type
emphasis aids the reader to seize the salient idea immediately. Here I believe
is a little book of great value.
Aug. T. Zeller, C.Ss.R.,

Rector and Lector Theologiae Moralis, Redemptorist

Seminary,
Oconomowoc, Wisc. .. ..:..
.•. .•.

This Foreword was written by Father Zeller in 1938.

Today, after twenty-two years, I reprint it with only one

correction, - whereas Father Zeller wrote "eight thousand

copies issued", today he would write "twenty-eight thou

sand copies issued and a call for a new edition", a proof

of the: continued appeal of the Handbook. I have included
in this edition principles concerning the use of chemical
preparations for the physiological control of fertility, -
principles which are permanent, and, I hope, fairly com
prehensive.
Andrew F. Browne, C.Ss.R.