BOOK REVIEW: Along the Way: Lessons for an Authentic Journey of Faith




By Randy Hain
Publication Date: December 1, 2012
Liguori Publications, Liguori, Missouri

 Reviewed by JEAN M. HEIMANN, freelance writer, wife and mother, M.A. in Theology, retired educator, psychologist, and oblate with the Community of St. John.


In Along the Way, Randy Hain is our spiritual companion and guide as we walk on this journey of life. He leads us along the right paths and draws us closer to the Lord, sharing the secrets of holiness, cautioning us about the pitfalls along the way. In his usual honest, direct, and clear style, he presents practical ideas on how to integrate our spiritual lives into our everyday activities. He gives us simple, helpful techniques that we can use at home, at work, in our social life, and with our family.

Hain begins Along the Way by sharing his beautiful conversion story and the powerful impact this had on all aspects of his life. Hain develops his discussion, presenting us with a number of ways to pursue holiness in a world that views Christianity in subjective and relativistic terms. Using scripture passages, saint quotes, and excerpts from papal encyclicals, Hain discusses today’s hot button issues, including: human life, materialism, relativism, tolerance, and more. Each chapter is chock-full of interesting, innovative, and useful ways we can know, love, and serve the Lord in all aspects of our daily life. I must admit that although I have been a faithful Catholic, pursuing holiness for many years, some of these ideas were new to me. Hain’s keen knowledge and application of the Catholic faith, as well as his ability to lead others to The Truth are very impressive. His enthusiasm for the faith energized me and renewed my own love for the Truth.

Along the Way is a book that I will use as a guide for many years to come and will re-read many times. It is a book that I recommend be used in conjunction with: RCIA programs, adult education programs, men’s faith discussion groups, and evangelization ministries. Converts, reverts, and long-time Catholics will all benefit from the tips Hain shares in this book. I highly recommend it.

~ copyright 2013 Jean M. Heimann

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