The Master-Christian

A novel written during the late 19th century. The book explores themes of faith, the moral state of the church, and the struggles of its central character, Cardinal Felix Bonpre, a devout and introspective priest grappling with the complexities of modern belief and the apparent decline of faith in society. The opening of the book introduces us to Rouen, a picturesque city filled with an atmosphere of devotion as the Angelus bells ring. We are immediately introduced to Cardinal Bonpre, whose deep contemplations are intertwined with the musicality of the cathedral around him. As he walks through the church, reflecting on the fleeting nature of life, he expresses his concern over the apparent lack of faith in contemporary times, which he attributes to a failure within the Church. The mood becomes heavier when he is confronted with the question of Christ's return and the future of faith on Earth. Cardinal Bonpre's humility and inner turmoil set the stage for his journey as he seeks to address the spiritual needs of the people amidst the overwhelming challenges posed by modernity and skepticism.