Our latest Sports and Faith Series book is Pilgrimage. Pilgrimage is Patrick McCaskey’s third book on Sports and Faith.
Pilgrimage explores various Christian shrines and holy places popular
with today’s trekkers and seekers. Awakened by modern fascination with
places like the Way of Saint James, many athletes whose achievements are
celebrated in this Sports and Faith book, have made pilgrimages part of
their faith journey. The Holy Land, Rome, Lourdes, Fatima, Assisi, and
several other places of interest and their origins are examined.
Author
Patrick McCaskey has peppered the book with his own poems and
narratives on all things McCaskey. The popular author’s poems and his
own literary and papal pilgrimages are here. McCaskey shares personal
episodes that readers will find simple, insightful, and touching.
Pilgrimage shares stories of exemplary athletes and others who are
successful in sports and life. These writings are often the product of
the author’s efforts on behalf of Sports Faith International, an
initiative that honors devout athletes and coaches. In Pilgrimage, some
of those featured have left sports for religious vocations—a college
volleyball star, an Olympic Speed-skater, and a professional (female)
football player! Add to these, stories on coaches, teams, and athletes
of all shapes and sizes, including some who have struggled mightily with
their sport and their calling. Sports training as a metaphor for
religious growth and is found throughout. Athletes train seriously for
sustaining endurance, improving their skills, and maximizing
performance. Many faithful Christians use such training to make a
difference for the unfortunate, teaching young people, and working
tirelessly for others. These efforts are featured.
Pilgrimage includes
some stories you may not expect: The story of Lou Gehrig, the great
Christian gentleman of baseball. EWTN sensation, Bear Woznick, devout
Catholic, radio and TV host who challenges people to abandon themselves
to God, and live a life in pursuit of God’s will in the boldest, most
rewarding way possible. Then there is Mark Philippi, a nationally
recognized Strength and Conditioning Coach and Power-lifting champion.
Another story features West Point graduate and army officer, April
Ortenzo, who is following her family’s example of service and sacrifice
to others.
Pilgrimage is a well-rounded offering that helps readers on
their own faith journey through the examples of many others. Some
readers may not be able to make a life-changing journey across
continents and oceans, but this book can give readers some insights and
enrichment. For those seeking adventure and travel in their future,
here’s a personal introduction.
