It's Not Necessarily So: A Senior Priest Separates Faith from Fiction and Makes Sense of Belief

by Fr Richard G Rento

The title says it all! It’s Not Necessarily A Senior Priest Separates Faith from Fiction and Makes Sense of Belief. A wise parish priest and educator not only tackles the problems in the institution of the Catholic Church and the dogma of the Catholic faith, but also offers solutions and spiritual insights. Fr. Richard Rento, S.T.L. confronts the issue of clergy sexual abuse head on and focuses on many other areas of church dysfunction. Anyone who has ever questioned illogical rules, meaningless ritual or implausible doctrine will find answers in this book. Written in a warm and friendly style the book addresses life-impacting and community-building issues ranging from answered prayers to Gay marriage, from abortion to the meaning of God. From the get-go Fr. Rento announces that he is not a theologian; so don’t expect any theological treatises or dissertations. Rather be treated to his personal experience and unpretentious language. Persons who have doubts, fears or misgivings about their faith and/or their relationship with the church will find comfort in these pages. “Nones” and parents of “nones” will appreciate Fr. Rento’s perceptions as will everyone who is searching for meaning in life and a belief system based upon a relationship with the Divine that respects and resonates with the whole person and allows for spiritual growth and maturity.

348 pages, Paperback

Published May 3, 2016

Reviews

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, especially if you want to continue growing (and growing up) in your spirituality. Fr. Rento's beautiful stories and thoughts put a new spin on many old and pretty superstitious beliefs that we all probably were taught as kids. Our Creator is not a puppeteer who manipulates us, or some vindictive individual who punishes us when we are less than perfect. God is simply and purely LOVE and always, always acts in accord with that.

I had the privilege of working for 2 years in the same diocesan office where Fr. Rento worked, and I also attended many of his liturgies. He's one of the wisest, simplest and most genuine people I've encountered in my life. His insights are gold and I strongly urge you to read this book. Just remember, he may debunk much of the ideas you've had for most of your life, so be prepared to question and to think.