My Struggle With Faith - Tapa dura

If a spiritual memoir is successful, the author weaves together personal experience and theological discourse into a discussion of faith that stretches the reader beyond his or her own understanding of God. Bestselling author and retired Roman Catholic priest Girzone (Joshua) accomplishes this task and more in his narrative nonfiction. As a response to the questions readers of his popular Joshua novels have asked-are the authors beliefs the same as Joshuas?-he compiles a beautifully nuanced expression of his faith as a "help to others who are struggling to develop their own understanding of life." He draws on his studies at seminary and his impressive knowledge of science, history, art and theology to ambitiously tackle a variety of topics, from the existence of God and the creation of the universe to the history of the Catholic Church and some of its traditions, like celibacy and confession. Girzone maintains his humility by placing such challenging discussions in the context of genuine soul-searching. Especially poignant are his confessions of doubt, disbelief, confusion and depression with regard to identifying his core beliefs; he establishes a deep connection with the reader by his utter candidness. In his simple, readable prose, Girzone paints a beautiful portrait of faith. --Publishers Weekly

From the author of the popular and insightful Joshua novels comes a beautifully crafted reflection on the Christian faith and struggle. Girzone, a practicing priest until his retirement in 1981, has explored various theological topics in his dozen-plus books, prompting his readers and friends to ask what relation the beliefs about which he writes have to his own faith. In response, Girzone has written a work that combines spiritual memoir, systematic theology, biblical exegesis, and pastoral care into one volume. His probing questions focus on the central spiritual quandaries shared by many; anyone who has ever doubted or had serious conflict with biblical history and faith will readily embrace Girzones testament of perseverance and the spiritual life. Though the book often feels homiletic, readers (especially Catholics) will feel at home with and inspired by his words, which convey the torment and joys of any faith journey. Warmly recommended for public, church, and theological libraries. --Library Journal

The author of the bestselling Joshua series and other popular inspirational books chronicles his own spiritual journey and describes with stunning honesty the difficult decisions he made along the way.

Joseph Girzone has attracted a tremendous following with his series of novels that imagine Jesus living in the contemporary world. His nonfiction writings and talks on spirituality have affected audiences around the world. Girzone’s ability to capture the meaning of faith in simple, direct language is more apparent than ever in this moving book about his personal journey through a dark night of the soul.
In My Struggle with Faith, Girzone recounts the long, complicated, and often painful process he went though as he sought to find peace with his beliefs. He writes about hard decisions that set him on unexpected paths and about the immense feelings of loneliness he experienced in making those choices. In thoughtful and thought-provoking reflections he brings to life the years of searching and the deep, critical thinking that gave him the courage to embrace his beliefs, opening a world of excitement and adventure for him.

In writing about what his beliefs have meant to him and about the intimate relationship with God that has sustained and guided him, Girzone illuminates the universal human struggle to find meaning in life. My Struggle with Faith offers readers insights, inspiration, and encouragement to follow their beliefs and create a more meaningful spiritual life.