Sins of the Father: A Catholic and Biblical Approach to Generational Curses (Hardcover)

What does Scripture mean when it says that the sins of the fathers will be visited upon the children? In this groundbreaking theological work, Dr. Dan Schneider explores the biblical and patristic roots of what modern language refers to as “generational sin” or “familial curses.” Drawing from the Church Fathers, particularly St. Augustine, this book reveals how the early Church wrestled with inherited guilt, original sin, and the lingering effects of evil across generations. 

With scholarly precision and pastoral insight, Dr. Schneider examines the interplay of divine justice and mercy, the authority structure and the effects of sin upon both families and communities, the interplay between nature and grace, the effects of baptism and a lingering concupiscence, and the need for satisfaction for sin. 

Encountering children and families afflicted by evil spirits in a manner consistent with these New Testament accounts is what initially drew Dr. Schneider into this field of study. Throughout the book, and at the eRipperger, PhD.

• Understand the biblical meaning of “avon avot”—the sins of the fathers

• Explore how the Church Fathers developed the dogma of original sin

• Learn the five reasons why God allows evil and demonic affliction (St. Gregory the Great)

• Examine how baptism heals inherited guilt—and where concupiscence remains

• Use spiritual warfare prayers at the end of each chapter to break generational bondage

From the Book

“The Church Fathers used scripture to hammer out various key doctrines in antiquity... One of these was the doctrine of original sin... The sin of Adam is a ‘pattern’—and Adam ‘is the type of the one to come,’ that is, Jesus.”

— Dr. Dan Schneider

Intended Audience

This book is for Catholics engaged in spiritual warfare, deliverance ministry, healing prayer, or simply those who desire to understand the deeper theological roots of generational sin. It is especially valuable for clergy, exorcists, family leaders, and laypersons who wish to break the cycle of spiritual bondage and reclaim their inheritance in Christ.

FAQs

Is “generational sin” an official Church doctrine?

While not dogmatically defined under that term, the concept is rooted in biblical and patristic tradition as discussed in this book. It aligns with the broader Catholic understanding of inherited consequences of sin. Are the prayers in this book approved?

Yes, the deliverance prayers are composed in line with traditional Catholic teaching and are suitable for private use under spiritual guidance.

Key Themes

• Inherited guilt and original sin

• Spiritual warfare and healing prayer

• Patristic theology and justice vs. mercy