Their text raises weighty questions asked by people from all times, places and cultures, like what are the origin, purpose and destiny of human beings; what does it mean to be good and why is there suffering. The authors then share responses from the world’s main religious traditions, answers that usually blend divine revelation with human experience.
“The book explains how Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Daoism answer seven of the greatest questions,” Glavich said. “It answers such questions as is there a God, what is the origin of the universe and is there an afterlife.”
The 200-page college-level theology textbook is available both in print and as an e-book and costs $25. The publisher also provides a 90-page adaptation for $14 and offers one or more chapters as individual articles to meet the needs of college instructors.
Ivancic, a 1971 graduate of Notre Dame, said the text has been used successfully by NDC professors who teach TH 150 (Living the Ultimate Questions). She presented the chapters on God and suffering as two different President’s Lectures. Ivancic also coordinates NDC’s Eleanor Malburg Eastern Churches Seminar. Glavich, a 1972 graduate of the College, has authored numerous books for all ages, mostly on spiritual topics and teaching the faith. She has traveled as far as Dubai to give talks.
In addition to serving as a college text, the alumnae’s book also is of interest to the general public, according to Glavich. The informative, easy-to-read text can help readers of all levels develop ecumenical understanding.
Ultimate Questions may be ordered online at AnselmAcademic.org/product/ultimate-questions. Copies also are available by calling St. Mary’s Press, Professor’s Choice Division, at 1-888-664-0014 and ordering item #669097 FTRO.
The Sisters of Notre Dame contributed to this article.
October 2020
About Notre Dame College
For almost a century, Notre Dame College has educated a diverse population in the liberal arts for personal, professional and global responsibility. Founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame in 1922, the College has grown strategically to keep pace with the rapidly changing needs of students and the dramatic changes in higher education. But it has never lost sight of its emphasis on teaching students not only how to make a good living but also how to live a good life.
Today, the College offers bachelor’s degrees in 30 disciplines plus a variety of master’s degrees, certification programs and continuing and professional development programs for adult learners on campus and online. Notre Dame College offers NCAA Division II intercollegiate athletic programs for men and women and is located in a picturesque residential neighborhood just 25 minutes from the heart of Cleveland. Hallmarks of the Notre Dame experience include stimulating academics, personalized attention of dedicated faculty and staff, and small class sizes.
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