I can't say enough good things about this compilation of essays on Catholicism written by clergy, politicians, entertainers, authors, educators, and lay people, almost all of them baptized into the Catholic faith as children. Some of them are still practicing Catholics while others have moved on for various reasons. A few are even embittered, like Bill Maher, who advocates abolishing organized religion. In Kennedy's introduction she describes her childhood in a devout Catholic family, including her mother's preparation for each holiday, frequent family Masses, the death of family members, and how these activities molded her own current approach to the Church and the practice of her faith.
What I got from reading this book is the realization that a lot of people feel as I do about that Catholic Church and our role in it. I found it gratifying to realize that I am not alone in believing that while the foundation of the Church, the teachings of Christ, is solid, there are many areas in which the church's rules and attitudes do not reconcile with these teachings. It is fascinating to read the experiences and justifications of people like Nancy Pelosi, Frank McCourt, Susan Sarandon, nuns, priests, former priests, and many others. I would recommend this book for any and all former, current, doubting, or otherwise interested Catholics and non-Catholics who want to learn more about how other people feel and what decisions they have made about their faith. It's fascinating!
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