Currents of change stirred in the late fifties, both in the Catholic Church and in American culture. But, St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, operated in the "old way" according to rules laid down by the Vatican in l969. This humorous but candid memoir follows its clueless author through the four years of theological study, spiritual formation and pastoral training preparing him, sorta, for ordination to the Roman Catholic priesthood in l961.
Making a Priest in the ‘Fifties: Memoir of a Nervous Seminarian
James M. O’Brien, PhD iUniverse (2006) ISBN 9780595408535 Reviewed by William E. Cooper for Reader Views (11/06)
Although a unique subject, this really is a great book to read. As a life-long Catholic, and one who actually aspired to the priesthood in my youth, I’ve often wondered what it would have been like to attend the seminary.
James O’Brien fully answers all the questions I had, and does it well. He writes clearly and concisely, at the same time adding just the right amount of humor to make the book an enjoyable read. His honest assessment of the life is a refreshing overview, particularly in light of the scandals plaguing the church. I particularly like the descriptions of daily life, a mixture of hard work and typical young men adventures. I am happy to tell Mr. O’Brien well done on his book “Making a Priest in the ‘Fifties.”
For a time, I perched myself on a flat rock, comparing my life with the Guyandotte River. Just as its tributaries replenish it daily, changing it in some small—sometimes great—degree, so have the day-to-day occurrences of life changed me. Like the ri
This is not a drill. The attack on Pearl. They were the ghost planes of the night, deadly, illusive, sharp-clawed Black Cats. The Memoirs of ARM H.P. Lawrence, a Pearl Harbor survivor, Black Cat, and decorated war veteran.
She never felt safe at home as a young girl, and didn't understand why when she finally escaped she wasn't safe in the big wide world either ...effectively jumping out of the frying pan into the fire!
