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John Courtney MurrayOctober 07, 2012
Jesuit Father John Courtney Murray pictured in an undated photo. (CNS files) 

In light of the continuing debate about the legacy of John Courtney Murray, S.J., we offer here an archive of articles by the noted American theologian. Murray wrote extensively on what the church could learn from the U.S. experiment in democracy and religious liberty. At times, his writings reflected "a faith in American exceptionalism and goodness so prevalent in the United States after World War II" (Am., 2/7/2005). Murray served as an associate editor at America and later as peritus at the Second Vatican Council.

For additional articles by Murray, visit this collection at the Woodstock Theological Center, compiled by Leon Hooper, S.J.

"How Liberal is Liberalism?"(pdf), April 6, 1946

"Separation of Church and State"(pdf), December 7, 1946

"The Church and the Council," October 19, 1963

"On Religious Liberty," November 30, 1963

"The Declaration on Religious Liberty: Its Deeper Significance"(pdf), April 23, 1966

"Freedom, Authority, Community"(pdf), December 3, 1966

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Chris NUNEZ
14 years ago
MANY THANKS for reprinting these fine articles. As it happens, there's a nice little discussion brewing at UCSC within the University Interfaith Council: whether to allow the Secular Student Alliance join the organization or not.
Pope Benedict has been addressing the subject of dialogue with much urgency this past month, pointing out that the right to religious freedom extends to both the believer and the non-believer.
This treasure trove of John Courtney Murray, S.J.'s writings on Religious Freedom is timely and timeless.
Ronald Grace
13 years ago
Thanks!!!  Anything Murray wrote is a treasure... I'm very grateful to you for making these available!

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