Winter 2011-2012

A priest, a rabbi, and a minister walk into a bar...

So you've heard that one have you?

Sure, there are plenty of jokes about religion and the religious, but let's face it, humor and laughter aren't exactly the first things people think about when they think about faith and the those who profess it.  In fact, more often than not, religious people are considered a dour and sober bunch.  While that might not be entirely fair, it's certainly true that we could all be better about living our faith more joyfully.  After all, if we truly believe the things that we say we believe, shouldn't we be the most joy filled people of all?


In his new book, Between Heaven and Mirth: Why Joy, Humor, and Laughter Are at the Heart of the Spiritual Life, Fr. James Martin reminds his readers of the importance of humor and laughter in the lives of believers.  Fr. Martin shares his personal stories, examines scripture, and looks to the writings and lives of the saints--and tosses in a few jokes to boot--to illustrate that a good sense of humor is a worthy virtue and one of the best ways we can all spread the Good News.

Fr. Martin writes, "Preparation for heaven forms the basis of a great deal of Christian theology.  Life, in this understanding, is not so much a test as it is a rehearsal.  And one way of preparing for something is by doing it...In that case, why couldn't earthly joy, humor, and laughter be a way of preparing for a lifetime of happiness?  Why not allow yourself to enjoy a little heaven on earth?"

Here's a short video of Fr. Martin describing his new book.
















If you're someone who is convinced that God has a sense of humor--and maybe especially if you're someone who is not, please join us in reading our Winter book selection, Fr. James Martin's Between Heaven and Mirth: Why Joy, Humor, and Laughter Are at the Heart of the Spiritual Life.

From December 1 through February 29, Between Heaven and Mirth will be available at St. Patrick's Book & Gift for 20% off the regular retail price.  We'll do our best to keep plenty of copies in the store, but if we happen to be out, we will take special orders.  This book would make an excellent Christmas gift.  Pick up an extra copy or two to give away.  In these tough times, a gift that puts a smile on someone's face might be one of the best gifts of all.