A journey that shaped them

Peter McVerry SJ did the honours at the official launch of Brothers in Arms (Messenger Publications) » by Brendan McManus SJ, Irish Jesuit, and James Fullam, Dublin taxi driver, on Friday 15 September 2023. The book is already a best seller and in its second print run and all sale proceeds go to the Peter McVerry Trust which works on alleviating homelessness.
Carolanne Henry of Messenger Publications gave a short introduction to the book saying that, for her, its core strength lies in demonstrating clearly and simply how relevant Ignatian spirituality is for people today as they go about everyday life with all its ups and downs.
Five hundred years after St Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, walked from Loyola to Manresa in Spain, the pair set out to retrace his steps on the newly established Ignatian Camino. The book is the story of two pilgrims, one saint, totally unexpected adventures, and finding the freedom to follow the path God has revealed.
Speaking at the launch Peter McVerry read extracts from the book that he said gave clear and fresh insights into Ignatian spirituality and its relevance in today’s world. You can watch the video of the launch here »
In a live interview with Pat Coyle of Irish Jesuit Communications, the authors regaled the audience at the launch with just a few of the remarkable stories from their pilgrimage, including being rescued by a group of nuns who spoke no English, had never heard of The Beatles but who could certainly drive a big van which brought the pair safely to their next destination.
Brothers in Arms could be described as part travelogue, part Camino-prep for seasoned and unseasoned pilgrims alike, and part hands-on guide to the basics of Ignatian spirituality.