An ordinary Catholic

the long version

In this passionate critique of the Catholic Church which raised him and shaped his moral outlook, Thomas Arthur Nelson articulates the views of many who perceive the religious institution as irrelevant and rife with unchecked abuses of power...Nelson argues that the church must return to a Jesus-centered philosophy of love. The eighty-two-year-old recounts his own journey from an uncritical follower into an unlikely activist for reform. It is grounded in his experience of church-inflicted injustices, particularly the ones he saw toward the lesbian and gay community. Written by an ordinary man who sits and takes communion weekly, the book articulates the joys and frustrations of everyday Catholics in a fresh new voice. This powerful plea for change will resonate with angry laypersons as well as departed members who stil cherish church moral teachings -- Publisher's description.