I have to admit I am having a hard time writing a review for My Cousin the Saint; not because I didn't like the book but because it's so hard to describe. It's a combination of biography, memoir and journey of faith story. Many times the elements are not separate and distinct but intertwined throughout the book.
The author, Justin Catanoso, was raised Catholic but hasn't practiced his faith regularly since high school. He grew up in a traditional Italian family but rarely attended Mass after high school, went to Confession even less frequently but can't relinquish the title of Catholic. Upon discovering his grandfather's cousin is a saint, he begins a journey of learning more about his family in the old country as well as exploring his Catholic faith.
Padre Gaetano Catanoso was a parish priest in a small town in Italy. He started an order of nuns, cared for the poor including many orphans, and lived a life of poverty, chastity and obedience. He was a faithful man that did all he could to help those around him, never forgetting that all comes from God. Upon his death, a miracle occurs when a nun prays for his interecession - she is cured of her asthma; there is no sign of any damage to her lungs despite years of difficulties. The story of Padre Gaetano is juxtaposed with his cousin in America - raising a family, working long hard hours and not having much time for church.
The author goes to Italy on more than one occasion; each time seeking to learn more about his grandfather's cousin, his extended family and his Catholic faith. Even upon seeing the entombed remains of Padre Gaetano there is no great faith revelation - no running to Confession, no promise of returning to Mass nor of baptizing his daughters but it's apparent that God is at work in his life.
I would recommend this book for adult Catholics that are secure in their faith since the author is still at a point of much questioning and has yet to embrace Catholicism fully.
The author, Justin Catanoso, was raised Catholic but hasn't practiced his faith regularly since high school. He grew up in a traditional Italian family but rarely attended Mass after high school, went to Confession even less frequently but can't relinquish the title of Catholic. Upon discovering his grandfather's cousin is a saint, he begins a journey of learning more about his family in the old country as well as exploring his Catholic faith.
Padre Gaetano Catanoso was a parish priest in a small town in Italy. He started an order of nuns, cared for the poor including many orphans, and lived a life of poverty, chastity and obedience. He was a faithful man that did all he could to help those around him, never forgetting that all comes from God. Upon his death, a miracle occurs when a nun prays for his interecession - she is cured of her asthma; there is no sign of any damage to her lungs despite years of difficulties. The story of Padre Gaetano is juxtaposed with his cousin in America - raising a family, working long hard hours and not having much time for church.
The author goes to Italy on more than one occasion; each time seeking to learn more about his grandfather's cousin, his extended family and his Catholic faith. Even upon seeing the entombed remains of Padre Gaetano there is no great faith revelation - no running to Confession, no promise of returning to Mass nor of baptizing his daughters but it's apparent that God is at work in his life.
I would recommend this book for adult Catholics that are secure in their faith since the author is still at a point of much questioning and has yet to embrace Catholicism fully.
You can purchase this book here.
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1 comment:
Reading your review, I am again struck by God's patience with us in this life:"...there is no great faith revelation - no running to Confession, no promise of returning to Mass nor of baptizing his daughters but it's apparent that God is at work in his life."
God bless you!
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