Sunday Will Never Be the Same: A Rock and Roll Journalist Opens Her Ears to God

REVISED REVIEW: ©2019. This biography begins with the author's recollections of her life and thoughts of God at the time of her parents' divorce when she was 5 years old (she was born in 1968). Her family was Jewish. Throughout her adolescence and young adult years she had suicidal thoughts and depression, stemming in part from abuse she suffered at a young age. She found solace in music and became very knowledgeable about the music scene and performers. Attending concerts in New York City sustained her and gave her something to look forward to. She later regretted not majoring in journalism while attending New York University, as this would have helped her career prospects. But through various connections she found freelance projects and other work and made a name for herself as a rock historian. She sought fulfillment in romantic relationships, but the men she dated typically didn't appreciate her or understand her. She also struggled with her self-image and weight. Her mother had converted from Judaism to Christianity and encouraged her to do the same. She sometimes attended church with her mother and step-father and would read the bible. Others encouraged her and she found herself increasingly drawn to the Christian faith. Stress over her job situation led her to pray, and the positive results she experienced strengthened her faith. Resonating with conservative Christian values made her feel she was an anomaly among her peers and professional colleagues in New York. Joining a group of G.K. Chesteron enthusiasts connected her with others with similar values. The intercession of St. Maximillian Kolbe during a work crisis was a turning point that drew her toward Catholicism. Although she was fired as a result of a pro-life stance she had taken, that led to an article being written about her in the New York Observer, which opened the door to her writing a book called The Thrill of the Chaste. She sought out RCIA instruction and became a Catholic. Though she didn't fully understand why, she felt the need to draw back from her relationship with her mother to many complex emotions from the past that were still affecting her. Soon after relocating to Washington DC, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and underwent surgery. When an elderly Catholic priest encouraged her to pursue a doctorate in theology, she initially rejected idea, not feeling equal to the challenge (she eventually did earn the degree). The author's keen sense of justice and willingness to take a courageous stand for her beliefs are very admirable. The book is told in an honest and heartfelt way, and is a moving testimonial to the power of prayer and faith.

I really enjoyed the book. In fact, I started reading right away, and couldn't put it down! I've hardly ever done that.