Publisher's Synopsis
"From a strict religious upbringing to a crisis of faith, my sixty year journey towards self-discovery was anything but easy, especially as a minister."
Raised within the confines of my church's dogma, was like growing up inside a cave. When I was thirty-years-old, a forward-thinking bishop challenged the narrow minded beliefs I, and many others held, emphasizing Christ's teachings over dogma. This turned my world upside down. For two decades, I lived hoping my church would rediscover the gospel, as I had. But, just before my fiftieth birthday, I had to accept that for myself. It was time for a change.
I intended to continue following Christ elsewhere, which helped me justify leaving family, friends and my legacy in the church I'd grown up in. The freedom I gained from that decision stirred my curiosity, and I began an academic quest to explore the world I lived in. Those inquiries brought about a daunting realization - did I even still believe in God?"
In this poignant and thought-provoking memoir, the author shares his emotional journey of self-discovery and the struggle to reconcile his beliefs with reality. From the strict dogma of his youth to the uncertain reality of living without a God, this story will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned their faith.
If books like "Educated" (Tara Westover) and "The Year of Living Biblically" (A.J. Jacobs), have moved you, then you won't want to miss this captivating memoir. It is a fascinating trek, packed with visceral emotions and insights. Anyone seeking the courage to question their religious beliefs, will benefit from its revelations.
"This is damn good! Your writing style is wonderful, your insights are really cool, and the stories are great. The book is unique, it speaks, it is alive!"
Dr. Nick Overduin, Ph.D. Philosophy
"-Go and Preach No More-, is memoir, paced like a thriller, with richly drawn characters, locations, and scenes. A passion filled, spiritual journey, with enough twists and turns to keep you reading until the end. The saga of a progressive, third-generation priest, in a tradition bound Church; our protagonist aligns with a progressive bishop, hoping to see change ─ doing his best to stave off disillusionment. Raff's twenty years as an ordained minister required some monumental choices affecting his family, religious brethren, and friends; all while staying true to himself. His solution is both heartbreaking and liberating."
- Jerry O'Brien, author of
-A FIELD GUIDE TO THE ANGELS IN BROOKLYN-
