The Twelve Apostles. Apostolic Summa. Volume I

THE DEFINITIVE ACADEMIC AND THEOLOGICAL TREATISE ON THE APOSTOLIC COLLEGE

Why did Jesus of Nazareth select precisely twelve men to be the pillars of His mission? Was this choice merely symbolic, or did it represent a deliberate programmatic restoration of the People of God? In THE TWELVE APOSTLES: APOSTOLIC SUMMA, VOLUME I, author Jes Fern嫕dez-Pedrera delivers an exhaustive historical investigation into the nature, collective dynamics, and enduring legacy of the inner circle of Jesus.

This encyclopedic treatise transcends individual biography to explore the sociological, economic, and theological context of first-century Galilee and how this "periphery" became the cradle of a universal faith. Drawing heavily upon the rigorous doctrine of Saint Thomas Aquinas and the authoritative documents of the Catholic Church, the author provides a comprehensive synthesis of the powers, charisms, and infused knowledge granted to the Twelve to build the foundations of the Church.

Key features of this foundational volume include:

• The Symbolism of the Number Twelve: A deep exploration of the biblical and eschatological connections between the apostles and the twelve tribes of Israel.
• The Thomistic Perspective: A systematic integration of St. Thomas Aquinas's teachings on apostolic authority and the sacramental economy of salvation.
• Successio Uninterrupta: A robust defense of the unbroken chain of apostolic succession, supported by historical, patristic, and archaeological evidence-including the fascinating search for the tomb of St. Peter under the Vatican.
• Historical Development: An analysis of the Church's metamorphosis from an expectant community to a grounded institution, culminating in the landmark decisions of the Council of Jerusalem.
• Detailed Biographies: In-depth profiles of Peter and Andrew, exploring their human fallibility, their radical transformation at Pentecost, and their ultimate sacrifice as martyrs.

Masterfully balancing historical-critical analysis with the living Tradition of the Church, Jes Fern嫕dez-Pedrera offers a professional resource indispensable for theologians, clergy, historians, and any serious student of early Christianity.

Volume I of the Apostolic Summa is the essential gateway to understanding the DNA of the Christian mission. Secure your copy of this monumental academic achievement today.