After meeting author Jim Sano at the final diocesan Book Club session, many participants were motivated to start a book club in their own parish. The author of the book “The Father’s Son” encouraged the participants to help evangelize by sharing their faith through love of literature and healthy discussion. He went on to explain that Catholic fiction gives believers an opportunity to expand their faith while enjoying a great story.
Here are some reactions from the Diocesan Book Club members: “I thought ‘The Father’s Son’ was a book that grew on me the more I read it. I really appreciated the local Boston details as I grew up nearby. The weaving in of Catholic beliefs with the plot makes me think I may go back for a second reading if I find myself trying to explain things in a down to earth way to family or friends.” - Sally Germain
“‘The Father's Son’ was an engaging story I had trouble putting down. Jim Sano craftily takes the reader on one man's journey of faith in a story that is relatable and enlightening to the reader. Reading this with the book club over the six weeks allowed me to savor it and appreciate the richness within its pages. The twists and turns were engaging. Being able to meet the author at our last meeting was a bonus for sure.” - Sandy Colabro
“The book club which read ‘The Father’s Son’ by Jim Sano was wonderful. I really enjoyed the reading time and then the discussion time. The book not only refreshed my faith but gave me an insight into the deep personal conflicts that sometimes challenge people. On the outside and for the world you can look very successful, but inner doubts can lead you down the road God did not intend for you.” - Kathy D’Amelio
“This was my first experience being part of a book club and it was such a fun experience. ‘The Father’s Son’ gave us all a lot of food for thought and I truly looked forward to Wednesday nights. It allowed everyone to share insights and a few laughs with each other. It was also great to meet virtually from the comfort of our own homes, especially on a couple of meeting nights that were stormy. Book Club is a really convenient way to evangelize in 2021.” - Marianne Nicholas
“The book ‘The Father’s Son’ was a Christian fiction story. It was an easy read and an enjoyable story that took place in Boston. The parts of the story that explained some of our beliefs as Catholics reminded me of my days as a teacher. This book is a great evangelization tool for people of all ages.” - Carol Benevides
If you are interested in starting a spiritual book club in your parish or with family or friends, the Office of Faith Events has put together a study guide that you can use. The study guide is specifically for the book “The Father’s Son” by Jim Sano. Using the study guide provided the members would be asked to read six chapters per week and be ready for discussion. A general study guide that can be used with any spiritual book is available as well. For more information, contact the Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237, ext. 304 or e-mail faithevents@norwichdiocese.net.
By Andrea D. Hoisl