First published 2008
Kerry Kennedy grew up in a Catholic family where faith provided strength through tragedy and loss. As an adult, she questions Church teachings while believing in its mission to help the poor. Kennedy recognizes that spiritual certainty has given way to doubt and reexamination. She gathers thirty-seven American Catholics to discuss their relationships with the Church. The contributors include politicians, journalists, entertainers, educators, and clergy. Some express love for the institution while others describe betrayal and anger. Nancy Pelosi recalls wanting to be a priest instead of a nun. Andrew Sullivan explores being gay and Catholic. Comedian Bill Maher declares his hatred of religion. Cardinal McCarrick connects authentic Catholicism to social justice. Martin Sheen describes returning to the Church after years away. Through these diverse voices, Kennedy captures how modern Catholics navigate between tradition and personal conviction in an institution undergoing profound change.
Genres: contemporary, religion, non-fiction, catholic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: personal-conviction, tradition-vs-modernity
288 pages · Hardcover · Crown