Early in our lives we are taught that God is wise and loving. We strive to be good so that we can reach our ultimate goal: eternal union with God in heaven. Yet how do we fully embrace the concept of our faith? Knowing about God in our head and truly accepting God in our hearts are two different things.

The Turtle Priest describes one boy’s faith journey while revealing his humanity through frankness. The tragic loss of his father and the life set before him had its share of difficulties. While on his path to the priesthood, he overcomes further challenges through determination and perseverance. From his early sheltered life, he brings into the priesthood loneliness, questions about his faith, and fears about his ability to serve as a priest. Repressed feelings lead to fighting inner battles, one of which nearly costs him his life. Accepting the fact that he is good enough and loved unconditionally, if only by God, his faith deepens, eventually enabling him to truly feel God’s love for him within his heart, transforming his ministry and self-confidence forever.

For anyone who wants to know God rather than know about God, The Turtle Priest is an insightful book. It reveals how one can develop a meaningful relationship with God through suffering, and the redemptive power of God’s love to transform one’s life.