02.25.09
Posted in Andrew Greeley, Mysteries at 7:17 am by Easley Wayne
I am a frequent reader of Andrew Greeley’s novels, yet I found this tale a pleasant surprise. This is not a typical story, there is much less stress on an investigation of a “looked room” crime, and much more on the people.
The Archbishop in Andalusia, set mostly in Seville, Spain, is a story about the adventures of Father John Blackwood Ryan, nicknamed Father Blackie (in this novel Padrecito Negro). Blackie is now Archbishop coadjutor to the Cardinal Archbishop of Chicago.
The mystery in this case is rather simple, and the closed door puzzle is, according to Blackie, easy to solve. Only the motive, why someone would commit the crime, is difficult for our detective priest.
I enjoyed the descriptions of the places Blackie visits. I have never been to Spain, but now can clearly picture Seville and its treasures. Through Blackie’s eyes I find southern Spain is very beautiful.
Witnessing conversations the Archbishop has with other characters, especially the women, I see some refreshing spiritual insights.
In line with writings of recent Popes, I learn that erotic passion can be an image of God. This discussion is reminiscent of God is Love by Pope Benedict XVI. In Greeley’s interpretation of Benedict XVI, a woman is a sacrament of God. Archbishop Ryan uses these teachings to help heal one of the main characters, Dona Teresa Maria, the Duchess of Seville, who carries many burdens from a life where she has not felt loved.
On judgement of those who commit criminal actions, Blackie says we should leave then to heaven, which has its own standards of mercy and “on the record, doesn’t let anyone escape its loving embrace.”
Archbishop in Andalusia is not just a mystery or a story, it can also be a pleasant theological study. I recommended the book.
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