". . . the Christian message of salvation includes the liberation of people from oppression."

In the forthright style that has earned him a reputation for controversy, theologian Gregory Baum presents the new Faith and Justice movement in the churches -- especially the Roman Catholic Church -- together with the considerable opposition to it. He discusses why many Christians are becoming activists, turning their faith into deeds by working for the liberation of the poor, not only in South America and the Third World but in Canada, as well.

He argues for a new ecumenism, permitting a more representative opinion within the Church and, in a larger sense, for what he believes are the fundamentals of a "just society." He says that there is a new realization that God is on the side of the oppressed -- that Christians are here to help in the struggle for liberation.

"This new ecclesiastical movement has been challenged by conservative Christians who lament that the churches have moved to the Left, and by a neo-conservative culture which wants to reconcile poeple to social inequalitty. Yet the movement is here to stay, because it is grounded in a new encounter with God."

Gregory Baum is a professor of religious studies at McGill University. One of Canada's best-known theologians, he rose to prominence during the Second Vatican Council of the 1960s. He resigned from the priesthood in 1976 but continues to be actively involved in the life and health of the Roman Catholic Church.

Compassion and Solidarity is published by House of Anansi.