In Fire Starters, Bishop Sklba has given us a wealth of information complemented by thought-provoking questions to expand our understanding of the biblical text and to lead us to reflect upon how these texts impact our lives in our messy, nitty-gritty world. Drawing on the best of contemporary biblical scholarship Bishop Sklba brings us into the biblical world and the nuances of its language to better understand the message of the presenting a spirituality that is both biblically based, and at the same time, contemporary. Though intended to assist preachers in their preparation of homilies, Fire Starters could easily become a source of prayerful reflection on the biblical readings of the day for all who want to immerse themselves in Scripture by daily meditation on the biblical text.
Pauline Viviano, Associate Professor of Theology, Loyola University, Chicago
Bishop Richard Sklba’s Fire Starters reveals not only his gifts as a preacher and a pastor, but also his conviction as a biblical scholar that the historical-critical method can foster preaching that touches mind and heart. Intended for lay preachers, as well as deacons, priests and bishops, these reflections have the power to spark a renewal of preaching and a deeper love of the Word of God not only in liturgical celebrations, but wherever two or three gather to pray.
Mary Catherine Hilkert, OP, Professor of Theology, University of Notre Dame
To have someone open the Scriptures for us is a tremendous grace. Bishop Richard Sklba does precisely that: he opens up God’s Word by providing ‘fire starters’ that help us to experience scriptural revelation. And the fire offered is ablaze, giving much light and warmth to enrich our spiritual journey.
Bishop Robert Morneau, Auxiliary Bishop of Green Bay, Wisconsin
Several diverse kinds of commentary on the lectionary readings for Sundays and major feast days of the year are readily accessible today. However, only a few comparable reflections on the weekday readings are available. Into this lacuna steps Richard Sklba. This retired bishop here takes up again the mantle that he had donned before he was called to the ecclesiastical magisterium, the mantle of biblical teacher. These reflections, which provide both biblical information and spiritual nourishment, demonstrate that the mantle remains a perfect fit.
Dianne Bergant, CSA, Professor of Old Testament studies, Catholic Theological Union in Chicago
Here is an excellent and practical homily guide that will be welcomed by Catholic preachers, especially those called upon to preach the daily homily.
The Bible Today
In his love and passion for the Scriptures, Bishop Sklba offers many insights into the weekday readings of the Liturgy to preachers and anyone interested in understanding the Bible more deeply. His fluid style and graced succinctness provides us with a greater appreciation of the context and meaning of God's Word.
Most Reverend Robert Morneau, Deacon Digest
All who are familiar with the somewhat daunting task of preparing meaningful homilies for the weekdays of Ordinary Time will discover in this book a helpful companion, one designed to ignite "sparks" that can be enflamed by God's Spirit.
Pastoral Liturgy
This practical aid for preachers radiates with exegesis and spirituality, world literature and comparative religions. Preachers need not purchase many commentaries and look up passages. It's all here, day by day.
Paul Turner, Worship
