In every church--in every pew, it sometimes seems--there is someone who has been deeply hurt in the Catholic Church. And yet these people find themselves coming to church, wondering if anybody else can understand their experiences, their questions, and their needs. This book brings together twelve authors who describe the pain they've experienced in Catholic institutions--and the pathways they've found to healing and renewed faith. In poetry, memoir, pastoral guidance, and practical advice, these authors explore issues ranging from racism to sexual abuse to gossip and judgment. They offer support and encouragement to all those for whom the church has been a place of harm as well as holiness. ""Eve Tushnet has collected stories from Catholics who, like Paul are 'completing what is lacking in Christ's afflictions' for the sake of his body, the Church. Each of the essayists is pierced, like Christ, by the very people who were called to welcome and love them and, through Christ, they endure what seems unendurable and accept healing and transfiguration. Required reading for all those called to love their neighbor (i.e. all of us)."" --Leah Libresco, Author of Arriving at Amen Eve Tushnet is the author of Gay and Catholic: Accepting My Sexuality, Finding Community, Living My Faith (2014) and Amends: A Novel (2015).
