Sacrifice: Religion and the Revitalization of Christian Life

Clemens Cavallin explores the historical and theological role of sacrifice in his new book, Sacrifice: Religion and the Revitalization of Christian Life.

Cavallin argues that modern civilization attempts to eliminate sacrifice, which has weakened the understanding of sacrifice within Christian churches. He suggests that some within the Church try to reconstruct Christianity without it, but contends this effort will fail because humans have a fundamental need for sacrifice, a priestly office, and mediation with the supernatural.

The book examines how modern culture creates an illusion that peace can exist without addressing evil. Cavallin notes that when suffering and violence occur, many modern Christians feel bewildered because they rely on a secular narrative of steady material and social progress. He concludes that Christians must recover the centrality of sacrifice to understand civilization honestly.