My Book
The Priestess and the Pope
The Priestess and the Pope weaves a powerful narrative with telling historical details, revealing for readers the crucial leadership role women played in the formation of the early church, which has long been hidden from the public eye.
In the year 495, Pope Gelasius issues an epistle demanding that outlying churches cease the practice of ordaining women as priests.
Samuel, a young papal aide, is commissioned to deliver the Pope’s epistle to a southern Italian church with a long history of both female and married priests. Unbeknownst to the Bishop of Rome, he begins to study in secret the heretical documents he has been ordered to destroy.
Under the watchful eye of Anna and Joshua, two married priests, and Maria, a fiery young preacher, Samuel starts down a path that can only lead to a deadly confrontation with Gelasius, or the destruction of church history. Which path he chooses will determine the fate of women in the church.
Very timely and important message delivered in an interesting format. In my mind, the rebirth of the Catholic Church will only happen if woman are allowed to be priests and if priests of both sexes are allowed to marry. Paul has offered us a means of joining a revolution that surely is attempting to make that happen. I’m happy to become a part of whatever concerted effort comes forth to create that change. “The Priestess & The Pope” should be read by every Catholic, particularly those of us who consider ourselves “recovering Catholics” as a result of the years of questioning.
Just finished reading your book. Loved the way you weaved the gospel according to Mary of Magdala into a compelling story. Just as Mary Magdalene proclaimed the word of Jesus, you are proclaiming the word of Mary Magdalene, who is not the adulteress that she is portrayed to be in the Bible.
I am delighted that you are bringing the role of women in the church to light. Good work!
Paul,
Just finished reading your book. Loved the way you wove the gospel according to Mary of Magdala into such an interesting story that should certainly reach a wider audience. Just as Mary Magdalene proclaimed the words of Jesus, you are proclaiming the words of Mary Magdalene, who was not the adulteress that is mentioned in the Bible. Great work!
Paul… My husband and I have read the original manuscript and we loved it… We understand the the final version is even better..HARD TO BELIEVE Your story depicts
the life of women in the church in a very compelling way. We cannot wait to read the book. I have already ordered my book with our local book store…
It sounds very interesting — and quite timely, given all that has been going on with the Cathholic Church recently (as you have been discussing on the front page of your site).
Good luck!
Far too little has been written about the history of the Catholic Church’s subjugation of women. I find the theme of your book compelling and I am looking forward to reading “The Priestess and the Pope “. Perhaps your book will “shine a little light ” on the foundation of the curent power structure of the Church . Keep us posted on publishing date
Paul; I have read the manuscript and it is a compelling narrative of early Christian life and the role of women in the early Church. The context and setting are extremely well documented and the historical perspective makes this a most interesting read. I would put this on a par with the “Davinci Code” and see this as a “must read” on the Summer Reading List.
I would love to buy this book as soon as it’s available! The story has some basis in fact, and it would be interesting to read one person’s idea of what might have happened.
Kelly,
Thanks for the comment. Will keep you informed as to the progress of publication! Keep in touch in the meantime – would love to hear your thoughts.