"This new Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture (New Testament) grew out of a perception that there was a need, yet to be met, for commentaries oriented to Christian faith and life today. The first two volumes-The Gospel of Mark and First and Second Timothy, Titus-indicate that this series promises to be spiritually and doctrinally informative, based on careful, solid biblical exegesis. The method and content of this work will be helpful to teachers of the faith at different levels and will provide a reliable guide to people seeking to deepen their knowledge and thereby nourish their faith. The publication of the volume on St. Mark is liturgically timely (Sunday Gospel readings, Year B), while the first of the Pauline commentaries, on Timothy and Titus, will serve to introduce readers to the riches found in the teaching of St. Paul at this favorable time: Pope Benedict has declared June 2008 to June 2009 the Year of St. Paul. It is noteworthy that among the editorial principles of this series is an emphasis on a theological and pastoral hermeneutic rather than a focus on legitimate but obscure scholarly questions. This is well borne out in the initial volumes. This series also admirably aims to serve readers across a spectrum of Catholic opinion while remaining faithful to Church teaching. With the advance of secularism in our times Christian conviction and evangelization need sustained support, especially through Sacred Scripture. I strongly recommend the Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture."

--Cormac Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor, Archbishop of Westminster