VIEW FROM THE ALTAR is one of the many books on renewal and reform of the Roman Catholic priesthood that has emerged since 2002. While offering something distinctive is difficult, Howard Bleichner does offer a fresh and interesting perspective.

Fr. Bleichner is the former rector of the theological college at Catholic University. Since most of his ministry has been spent in the formation of priests, he offers valuable insight into both what ails the priesthood today as well as what is worthwhile. The book is divided into three sections. The first assesses priesthood today, beginning with the present scandal and continuing by comparing and contrasting candidates for priesthood in the past and the future. The second section focuses on what are sometimes called the evangelical councils: prayer, simplicity of life, celibacy, and authority and obedience. In the third section Bleichner focuses on his belief of the theology of the priesthood.

Perhaps what makes Fr. Bleichner's work thought provoking is his vision of the Church. He does believe that the Church needs renewal, and he believes that when the scandals recede bishops have to call for a council regarding the future of the Church, but everyone needs to be at the table. He loves many of the traditions of priesthood, but warns about returning to an outmoded type of living the priesthood. He also calls priests in ministry today to review what it means to be a priest and to rise to the challenges these times present.

In Bleichner's book we find a priest who love ministry and the Church, sees the need for change, and has the ability to articulate his vision in this book. Hopefully all who read it will take his challenges seriously and rise to the call of a being a priest in challenging times.