What are your three wishes?
A Journey into the Catholic Faith - by Father Francis Maple O.F.M Cap. - ISBN-13 : 979-8335197373
Book Review
This book is a complete guide to the Catholic Faith. It is simple, concise and enlightening; in this sense it is Franciscan in nature and it appeals to the heart of the reader.
If the reader is looking to find out more about the origins of the faith, an understanding of the teachings of Jesus, the life of Our Blessed Mother Mary, the importance of the Sacraments, and how to live and die in God’s grace, this book covers it all.
I can see an appeal in this book for anyone curious about Christian faith, those seeking to convert to Catholicism, and also practicing Catholics and other Christians. As a Catholic myself, I have found answers in this book both to questions about aspects of the Catholic faith, and, also about my own personal relationship with God.
Father Francis Maple, has made what might otherwise have been deep theological heavy reading into a very accessible handbook for the reader. At the same time, he has also managed to convey in his writings the divine mystery and beauty of the personal relationship which ultimately we each have with God.
There are hidden gems or golden nuggets in little phrases of succinct but profound explanation about faith sprinkled throughout this entire book. It makes it a true joy to the heart to read.
It has been truly gratifying to have had the opportunity to provide editorial support, both as a wordsmith and as a friend, to Father Francis for all his tremendous work on this book.
Paul Owen LLB, LLM
Father Francis Maple entered the Capuchin Franciscan Order on 7 September 1955 and was ordained as a priest on 30 March 1963. He became known as the “Singing Friar” after producing many recordings of hymns and songs which he sang at concerts along with his acoustic guitar. He in fact recorded a total of 42 albums and was presented with a Golden Disc award by the music industry for his “Old Rugged Cross” album.
He has donated the royalties from his music and books over the years to charitable purposes, primarily to help the poor and starving in the world. He has raised in excess of £1m for charity through those means and was awarded the MBE in 1997 by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of that achievement.