Transformed by Love
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Memoir (general non-fiction and Christian trade 5.5”x 8.5” 212 pages), available to booksellers in laminated hardcover (ISBN: 9781949596144 $24.99), paperback (ISBN: 9781949596137 $15.99), and eBook (9781949596151 $4.99).
Transformed by Love can be ordered from the Ingram Book Company through your Ingram account or using the Add to Cart buttons.
“. . .This remembrance is not only a beautiful love story, but also a spiritual memoir exploring how a couple’s faith—both collectively and individually—evolved alongside their relationship. Callahan’s spiritual formation in the priesthood remains ever-present throughout the book’s narrative, which is peppered throughout with religious commentary, prayers, and relevant Bible verses that are cited in the ample endnotes. At just under 200 pages in total, this is an accessible book; its brevity, however, should not be confused with shallowness, as it bravely tackles questions related to childhood trauma, abuse, spirituality, love, and the meaning of life head-on. A touching love letter from a grieving husband that stresses the transformational power of love.” — Kirkus Reviews
James Callahan was a thirty-one-year-old Catholic priest when he met Claire Lyons, who was at that time a Sister of the Holy Cross. Although each had survived a difficult childhood, having both grown up in alcoholic homes, they recognized in each other a shared commitment to love and service.
Their friendship and marriage took them on a journey of faith spanning more than five decades, during which they drew closer to each other, discovering new facets of the mystery of love.
Transformed by Love is the story of two individuals who grappled with questions many people face in life: How to live according to one’s conscience? How to serve to the best of one’s abilities? How to live one’s calling through the different chapters of a lifetime? And how to love another person, and allow oneself to be loved in such a way that one’s very being is transformed by that love?
Praise by Readers, 5-Star Reviews
“Without question, love is the most powerful force. Nothing comes close to the transformative power of love. This easy to read, enjoyable book is the story of the author’s path through youth to the priesthood in the Catholic Church . . . Even in this world of ever-present love and fulfillment the author felt something missing. Then he met Claire, a nun, also deeply committed for life in a religious order. And a transforming love took over their lives. This wonderful book tells that story“. –Tom D
“I was transformed by this book. What a wonderful telling of spirituality, finding oneself, and the power of love. I would recommend this book to anybody looking for purpose in life, or understanding of love. I would also recommend this book to anyone grieving a loved one. I cannot say enough about how much this book truly was powerful and meaningful to me in my own life.“ –Jessica M.
“I found this book to be compellingly honest and powerful in its love, powerful in its grief and powerful in its spirituality/faith and humility. The author and his wife both grew up in families hurt by alcoholism; they both joined religious orders; and they both left those orders but continued to live deeply spiritual and faith-filled lives. I also found the book to be an understated call for married Catholic priests. The author’s story will stay with me.“ –Gerry O.
“Supremely uplifting in its recounting of two beautiful souls who struggle through adversity, institutional constraints, and a deep examination of conscience to ultimately follow their hearts. The world is a better place because of them and the legacy they leave behind. Wonderful read and a true labor of love. Highly recommend.” –B.L.
“I was very pleasantly surprised by this book. It tells a very human story, where the characters face the challenges life throws at them with determination to be good and do good. Very different than the attitudes we see so often these days in the media and public spheres.” –Andrea L.
“A heartfelt look into the loves and losses faced through an unabated love of God and each other. No problem in your life can stop you when you face it with love and faith.” –Kevin L.
