Sally Dwyer-McNulty

A Catechism of the Heart

History & Biography

“Benjamin James Brenkert's thoughtful memoir reveals the story of his religious formation among the Jesuits and his 're-formation' within a community of gay-affirming and sober friends. Encouraged to suppress his homosexuality as an observant young Catholic, Brenkert initially found openness and spiritual inspiration in the Society of Jesus, or the Jesuits. Once Brenkert began his training for the priesthood, however, his fellow Jesuits withdrew their support, leaving Brenkert to doubt himself and his future in Catholic ministry. Brenkert offers readers a powerful narrative that exposes the troubling distance between Pope Francis's message of acceptance toward gay Catholics and the policies of Catholic organizations and clerical leaders.”