Confessions of a Parish Priest: An Autobiography (Hardcover)

by Andrew M. Greeley (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal
Largely a defense of his novels as " `comedies of grace,' . . . the most effective priestly activity in which he has ever engaged," Father Greeley's memoir is also an amalgam of sociological jargon, cutesy dialogue, and righteous tirades that is flavored by chutzpah, ingenuousness, and some surprisingly spiritual reflections. The details Greeley shares of his personal, priestly, and professional successes and frustrations will be interesting only to Greeley fans, while those who regard him as an opportunist and a scandal will probably also object to the opinions on morality, the Church, football, etc., he expresses here. If only because of Greeley's notoriety, libraries should have this unique, provocative testament of a feisty Irish-American Catholic phenomenon. Nancy M. Laskowski, Free Lib. of Philadelphia
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 507 pages
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster (November 1988)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0671610848
• ISBN-13: 978-0671610845
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.5 x 1.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #566,727 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Confessions of a Parish Priest, August 11, 2001

By	Sandra P. Richardson "sprichardson" (Albuquerque, New Mexico USA) - See all my reviews

Having read primarily Andrew M. Greeley's novels since 1982, I discovered through his Web Page a host of non-fiction titles which I began checking some out from ABQ's Library Branch. I was intrigued by the title. Knowing his choice of titles is usually his way of "playing" with his readers, I wondered just how open his memoir would be. Also, having read almost every novel as well as his column over the years, I was curious about how much these novels reflected the author. I was amazed how Greeley trusts his readers, creating an intimacy which I would dearly appreciate from a parish priest. What a model of integrity for any priest! Greeley is a master story teller in his novels but he demonstrates a superior skill in creating a memoir that is honest, insightful and critical while maintaining a delicate balance between personal history and motives as well as creating a special bond with the individual bond. Reading this book, I felt as though Greeley was having an intimate chat with only me, in much the same relationship as Blackie Ryan and one of his Irish Tribe! I appreciate Greeley's ability to write with phenomenal intelligence yet never patronizing the reader. Reading his memoirs has brought me insights into my own life and history so that Greeley is not just a priest and author but also a teacher and counselor. I also think that he is too hard on himself. In any event, I have to OWN this book as I own all his novels. I just purchased Furthermore: memoirs of a parish priest and this one to have handy as my "reference for living!" I recommend Confessions of a Parish Priest for all readers of intelligence for so many reasons. Regardless of religion, any discerning reader would be entertained, educated and satisfied "chatting" with this very special author and parish priest. I even read this aloud to my civil engineer husband! He was amazed. I learned so much about myself in the process. I tell everyone about it and think there should be a re-printing of this book...it is timely even today. Do yourself a favor and read Confessions of a Parish Priest. I wish this was required reading for every priest and minister and rabbi. All married couples and soon-to-marry folks would be relieved to read this book. He validates the laity, honors marital love and celebrates young people. His only "flaw" is that he believes in the goodness of people, the wisdom of married couples and trust in our youth. Reading this book was for me better than a vacation; I will revisit it frequently to refresh my mind, to uplift my spirit and restore my soul!