Focus on Doctrine by James Gaffney (1975 Deus Book Paperback)

•           Author:                           James Gaffney 

•           Cover Design:                Gloria Ortiz

•           Publisher:      Paulist Press     New York,  NY   U.S.A.      1975

This book is a chapter-by-chapter reprise of the Catholic faith in light of post-conciliar (that is after the Second Vatican Council which ended in 1965) developments.  These essays first appeared in Service Vol.I, a magazine published by The Missionary Society of St. Paul the Apostle in the State of New York during 1973 & 1974. 

In his introduction, the author states his intention not to assert only what the new practices are, but why these changes were implemented and how new practices more fully honor the basic premises of the old practices. 

Trying to make sense of the old in the new and new in the old.   Theology for the laymen. 

James Gaffney is a Professor Emeritus of Ethics at Loyola University, New Orleans, Louisiana. 

Pocket-sized paperback is complete however glue in glued spine is drying to create separate blocks of text.  As of now, all pages are present and connected, but not tightly bound.  Scar from removal of sticker on spine.  Cover has square corners with only a single reading crease in spine.  Interior is clean and unmarked.  No evidence this copy was in a public library.  No ownership markings.

• Size:  12mo – over 6¾ - 7¾” tall,       148pp.  
• Condition:  Good Plus Paperback.                 Likely Always Privately owned copy.  Interior unmarked. 

Copyright of original essays 1973 & 1974.  This book registered with Library Catalog in 1974.  Printed and bound in U.S.A.  Promoted as a Deus Book.  No explicit edition nor print-run stated.  LCCN: 74-28635.  ISBN: 0-8091-1863-7.  No MSR. 

Notes on Condition/Edition ratings:

Fine – means like new, but any book produced over 10 years ago isn't “brand new” or even “new.”  Using the same term as coin collectors, “can’t guarantee it is uncirculated, but it looks very much like it could be.”  Booksellers need similar grading to describe this...

Like New – A new book, no marks no damage (except maybe remainder marks or shelf-wear) except not obtained directly from the publisher or in packaging from the publisher.  Same sort of thing about grading as Fine above except generally used for newer publication dates with title still in print. 

Good – How someone else might take care of a book. Also referred to as “standard.” This is the most likely condition for books of this age & title, shows the book has been read or previously owned.  

 Acceptable – How a young child, student or a librarian might take care of a book. (Either trying to make sure someone doesn't steal it by plastering ownership everywhere, filled it with copious notes or a book that has been damaged.)

Poor – Combination of “acceptable” factors above. Most likely with water damage as well. Might have missing pages (you should ask).  Usually requires repair to be usable. 

Near – Means “almost” in an optimistic sense. e.g., “Near Fine” means very good, but on the high end.

1st Thus – Unique somehow, maybe 1st paperback, new illustrator, misprint or even the 1st edition. A collector might desire this copy for their collection.

Thanks for looking!