GoodBookStall Review:
The intriguing sub-title for this book sums it up well: ‘Sunday sermons that might have been – but for the homily’. The author, ordained in 1993, had a varied life in Zambia, the Middle East and the USA and is now a parish priest in Whitby, UK.
When the second Vatican Council called for priests to give homilies based on scripture readings, Fr. Neil felt some frustration at not having the opportunity to address other areas of spiritual or pastoral needs. His book seeks to redress this issue. Its short, pithy chapters cover diverse subjects such as Christian Unity, child abuse, Hallowe’en and meatless Fridays.
Written primarily for his own church people it is nonetheless of interest to those of other denominations (or none) as it gives an insight into many facets of the Roman Catholic Church, as well as thoughtful comment on such subjects as envy, humility and prayer.
Don’t be put off by the sub-title, or the apparent randomness of the chapter headings.
My initial response was that the author was just indulging in his hobby-horses. Maybe he was – but they were worth riding! Dip into this bag of Allsorts and you should find something to relish. (Posted on 30/11/2011)