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Fr. Charles Hugo Doyle. Sins of Parents. Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2022. Paperback $18.95. 240 pages. Available from the publisher.
One unfortunate result of Freudianism is that some Catholics have overreacted and fostered the ‘blame-the-parents’ attitude. However, the idea that parents can impair the lives of their children didn’t begin with Freud — it began with God, who warned Moses: “I am the Lord thy God, mighty, jealous, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generations.”
These sobering words provide the keynote for Fr. Doyle’s arresting guide to Catholic parenting. As Fr. Doyle conveys, “The treatment [of this topic] extends not only to sins of fathers and mothers taken in their strict sense of serious transgressions against the law of God but extends also to the venial and even inculpable faults that can so adversely affect the lives of children.”
Fr. Doyle emphasizes why it’s imperative for parents to accept responsibility for the spiritual and moral upbringing of their children and provide an example for them to follow. He relates the beauty to be found in faithful and loving marriages and how to strengthen the bond of marriage by cultivating virtues. In a world of instant gratification, Fr. Doyle invites readers — whether young adults, married, or grandparents — to pause and consider the sacredness of marriage and the sacrifices required for authentic love.
"Every time your watch ticks off a second, a baby is born somewhere in the world," wrote Fr. Doyle. "Despite the fact that practically every one of those babies will come into the world devoid of nervous, emotional, physical, and moral flaws other than Original Sin, an appalling number will grow into unhappy, frustrated men and women, unable to face the challenge of life. This will, in great measure, be the fault of the parents."
In page after page, Fr. Doyle offers insights on child psychology and ways to foster emotional stability through enthralling stories and examples. He further highlights practical tips on encouraging character development and the spiritual life. Most assuringly, Sins of Parents affords readers with a road map to happiness and holiness in an increasingly upside down world.
Reviewers shared:
“This is truly a universal book for all ages and all times. It speaks with a power that pervades through the centuries.”
“This book is important for any person wishing to gain or give spiritual guidance to those people preparing or entering the sacred vocation of matrimony.”
“I recommend this book to all people that we may never forget what is good -- and to avoid all that may make our children destroy themselves, or their country!”
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of Sins of Parents, and/or to schedule an interview.
Mary Beth Bracy is a writer who is blessed to research, publish, and speak extensively on various aspects of Catholic spirituality. Her books include Behold the Lamb, Bread of Life and The Little Way of Healing Love Through the Passion of Jesus: The Stations of the Cross with St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and she is co-author of the book Stories of the Eucharist. She has written articles for numerous Catholic publications and recorded some Catholic talks. Mary Beth is also a professional teacher, dual certified in English and Special Education, and the owner of a Catholic book and gift shop online. A proud member of the St. John Paul II generation, and lover of all things St. Thérèse, Mary Beth enjoys spending time in Eucharistic Adoration daily, keeping in touch with her family and friends, as well as, sharing her faith with others.
