The Thorny Grace of It: And Other Essays for Imperfect Catholics - Paperback

by Brian Doyle (Author)

Best-selling and award-winning essayist Brian Doyle knows that the heartbeat of Catholicism is found not in papal decrees and pageantry, but in the parish halls, potluck dinners, and the believing community. In this spirited collection of more than 40 essays, Doyle employs his trademark wit, candor, and gusto for life and faith to reignite readers' excitement for Catholicism as he plumbs some of the stickier and trickier elements of the Catholic character.

From preparing for his first confession with a fake laundry list of sins to his young observations of President Kennedy's assassination, Doyle's passionate writing makes for a heartfelt, genuine, and often laugh-out-loud read. The Thorny Grace of It reaffirms that the Catholic faith--imperfect as it is--is wildly aflame in hearts and lives everywhere."It is a boon, a blessing, to have Brian Doyle's vagabond essays now rubbing elbows in a single, handy, and altogether delightful volume."
- Kenneth L. Woodward, author of The Book of Miracles

Author Biography

Brian Doyle edits Portland Magazine at the University of Portland in Oregon, called "the best spiritual magazine in the country" by Annie Dillard. Doyle is also the author of 13 books of essays, fiction, and poetry; among the honors for his work are the Christopher Medal and a Catholic Press Association Book Award. He lives with his family in Portland.