The Beatitudes challenge the follower of Jesus to incredible courage in suffering and total generosity to others. Are new commandments given to us at the Sermon on the Mount unreachable ideals only for a chosen few saints? Are they signs for every Christian on the road of discipleship? Popular author Leonard Foley, O.F.M., reflects on each of the Beatitudes with special emphasis on the first, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God." Says Father Foley, "The rest of the Beatitudes might be called restatements of the first. For each subsequent Beatitude develops some aspect of being 'poor' before God." This prayerful, reflective Catholic Update makes the Beatitudes real, recognizable and understandable and will be a fine resource for prayer groups, RCIA and religious education.