Books matching: struggles with faith
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Save:The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell is a speculative fiction novel that delves into themes of faith, friendship, and first contact with an alien civilization. The story follows a Jesuit-led mission to the planet Rakhat, exploring the complexities of human nature, morality, and the consequences of cultural misunderstandings when encountering an alien race. Through a non-linear narrative, the author weaves together past and present timelines, gradually revealing the heartbreaking fate of the characters and the challenges they face in a mission that tests their beliefs and resilience.
The Sparrow is a character-driven novel that combines elements of science fiction, theology, and anthropology to create a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant story. Mary Doria Russell's writing style is rich and deep, immersing readers in a world that is both unique and familiar, while exploring profound questions about faith, love, and the human condition. The book offers a moving exploration of the inner struggles and journeys of its characters, presenting a narrative that is both captivating and poignant.
THE FATHER GENERAL’S private secretary contacted Father John Candotti on the Feast of the Holy Innocents, three weeks after Emilio’s arrival at Number 5. "Sandoz is well enough to see you now," Johann... Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, and Finding the Church by Rachel Held Evans is a memoir that chronicles the author's journey through different aspects of faith and church life. The book is structured around the seven sacraments, offering insights into the nature of church, the struggles of faith, and the quest for belonging. Evans shares personal experiences and reflections on topics such as doubt, community, and the evolving relationship between individuals and the church. Through candid storytelling and spiritual perspectives, the author navigates themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and the search for genuine connection within and outside the traditional church setting.
GERMAN THEOLOGIAN DIETRICH BONHOEFFER WROTE that “the early mornings belong to the Church of the risen Christ. At the break of light it remembers the morning on which death and sin lay prostrate in de...'Pastrix: The Cranky, Beautiful Faith of a Sinner & Saint' by Nadia Bolz-Weber is a memoir that delves into the journey of the author from a troubled past to becoming an ordained Lutheran pastor. Through her raw and honest storytelling, Bolz-Weber shares her struggles, doubts, and experiences, offering a refreshing and authentic perspective on faith. The book is a blend of humor, grace, and profound theological reflections, challenging readers to rethink traditional views on religion and embrace the messy and real aspects of spirituality.
Bolz-Weber's writing style is described as candid, irreverent, and thought-provoking, as she weaves together personal anecdotes, theological insights, and reflections on grace and redemption. The book navigates through themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the transformative power of God's love, making it a compelling and inspiring read for those seeking a deeper understanding of faith and spirituality.
During my early years of sobriety, I spent most Monday nights in a smoke-filled parish hall with some friends who were also sober alcoholics, drinking bad coffee. Pictures of the Virgin Mary looked do...'Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon' by Daniel C. Dennett delves into the evolutionary analysis of religion, exploring who benefits from it and how it has evolved over time. Dennett presents the idea of religion as a social phenomenon that has both benefits and costs, providing a deeper understanding of its role in society. He discusses the concept of religious beliefs as competing memes and offers an inquisitive approach to studying the evolution and nature of religious ideas. The writing style is described as thoughtful, funny, and accessible, encouraging open questioning and research of religion's utility.
You watch an ant in a meadow, laboriously climbing up a blade of grass, higher and higher until it falls, then climbs again, and again, like Sisyphus rolling his rock, always striving to reach the top...- #5
Save:'A Grief Observed' by C.S. Lewis is a poignant and honest exploration of the author's personal journey through grief following the death of his beloved wife. Through a series of raw and heartfelt reflections, Lewis delves into the depths of his emotions, doubts, and struggles with faith in the face of loss. The book offers a candid portrayal of how grief can challenge even the strongest beliefs and how one can navigate through the overwhelming pain of loss.
The writing style of 'A Grief Observed' is described as intimate, emotional, and deeply personal. It provides readers with a glimpse into Lewis' innermost thoughts and feelings as he grapples with the profound impact of his wife's passing. The book is noted for its unflinching honesty, poignant observations, and the way it captures the complexities of grief with both clarity and vulnerability.
At other times it feels like being mildly drunk, or concussed. There is a sort of invisible blanket between the world and me. I find it hard to take in what anyone says. Or perhaps, hard to want to ta... - #6
Save:'The God Delusion' by Richard Dawkins is a thought-provoking exploration of atheism and the arguments against the existence of God. Dawkins presents a compelling case for rationalism and science over religion, dissecting the flaws in religious beliefs and the impact of faith on society. Through eloquent and witty writing, Dawkins challenges readers to question their beliefs and consider the implications of a world without the need for a divine being.
The God Delusion in the hardback edition was widely described as the surprise bestseller of 2006. It was warmly received by the great majority of those who sent in their personal reviews to Amazon (mo... - #7
Save:'Foreskin's Lament' by Shalom Auslander is a darkly humorous and deeply bitter memoir that delves into the author's upbringing in an unhappy ultra-Orthodox Jewish household. Auslander recounts his struggles growing up Orthodox Jew, navigating the myriad of things that could anger God, his family, and the community. The book vividly portrays the oppressive nature of his religion and the abusive dynamics within his family, all while exploring his complex relationship with faith and theology. Auslander's writing style combines humor with poignant reflections on his traumatic childhood and his ongoing battle with religious beliefs.
Despite the heavy themes, 'Foreskin's Lament' is filled with dark humor and satirical elements that provide a unique perspective on the author's journey from strict Orthodox upbringing to his current religious stance. The memoir offers a raw and honest portrayal of Auslander's struggles with faith, family, and identity, drawing readers into a world of neuroses, anger, and rebellion against the constraints of religious dogma. Through a mix of wit and bitterness, Auslander navigates his past with a critical eye, shedding light on the complexities of growing up in a deeply religious environment while challenging traditional beliefs and societal expectations.
When I was a child, my parents and teachers told me about a man who was very strong. They told me he could destroy the whole world. They told me he could lift mountains. They told me he could part the... - #8
Save:'Wise Blood' by Flannery O'Connor is a novel that delves into the existential crisis of the characters, particularly Hazel Motes, who returns from the war to create a new religion, The Church of God Without Christ. The story follows Motes as he navigates through a world filled with bizarre and unlikable characters, all set in a Southern gothic backdrop. The writing style is described as direct, disturbing, and darkly comic, drawing parallels to authors like Cormac McCarthy and Nathanael West.
Hazel Motes sat at a forward angle on the green plush train seat, looking one minute at the window as if he might want to jump out of it, and the next down the aisle at the other end of the car. The t... - #9
Save:'The Brothers Karamazov' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a classic Russian tale that delves into the lives of Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov and his sons Ivan, Dmitri, and Alexei. The novel is known for its acute examination of the psychology of its main characters, as well as its exploration of Russian identity, family dynamics, and ethical debates. The book weaves together a murder mystery, a psychological thriller, a religious treatise, and a social commentary, all while portraying a dysfunctional family and the struggles of humanity.
The writing style of 'The Brothers Karamazov' is described as deep, complex, philosophical, humane, and powerful. The book is praised for its sprawling narrative, great characters, and thought-provoking themes that encompass religion, morality, good vs. evil, and the essence of human nature. Despite its length and occasional tangents, readers appreciate the brilliance and relevance of the novel, which continues to challenge and inspire readers with its depth and complexity.
Alexey Fyodorovitch Karamazov was the third son of Fyodor PavlovitchKaramazov, a land owner well known in our district in his own day, andstill remembered among us owing to his gloomy and tragic death... - #10
Save:'The Last Sin Eater' by Francine Rivers is a beautifully written book that delves into the themes of misunderstandings within families, guilt over the past, and the hope of God's forgiveness and love. The story reflects God's story of redemption in our human vanities and reveals common experiences in life. The book is captivatingly written, keeping readers turning the pages with its allegorical elements of sand, repentance, forgiveness, and the human striving for redemption.
The plot is set in a historical context, drawing readers in with its powerful depiction of grace found in Jesus taking our place on the cross. The narrative follows characters facing struggles, doubts, and triumphs as they seek the Truth in their own lives, ultimately guiding them towards understanding grace and finding rest in Christ alone. The book provides a moving and emotionally deep journey, with characters that feel real and relatable, making it a compelling read for those seeking a non-threatening way to understand the message of the gospel.
