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“Enjoying God’s Gifts” (WestBow Press, 2018), a new collection of homilies by Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, O.F.M., features drama, wisdom, and humor. As does the Bible. God speaks to us in the Bible so we can grow in holiness, Fr. Kevin, ’60, explains. “With every reading, new understandings of our life with God emerge, and we will be better inspired to enjoy God’s many gifts for us.”

Some texts in the Bible evolved over decades, and others over centuries, he notes. At least 40 authors probably wrote the Bible over 1,500 years, and the texts aren’t always easily understood.

“Enjoying God’s Gifts” illuminates Advent and Christmas, Lent and Easter, and “ordinary time” with 56 engaging sermons, referencing Old and New Testament lectionary selections and prompting the reader to “contemplate and celebrate God’s gifts.”

Within the lessons, Fr. Kevin shines many of the Middle Eastern lights populating the Bible. He also applies saintly and intellectual examples from a worldwide cadre of wise men and women including Thomas of Aquinas, Ignatius of Loyola, Teresa of Avila, Therese of Lisieux, Francis of Assisi and more. The book is accessible for Bible study and spiritual inspiration.

Fr. Kevin is a member of the Franciscan community at St. Anthony’s Friary in St. Petersburg, Florida, serves at St. Raphael Catholic Church, and is a chaplain for the St. Petersburg Police Department. He’s also a member of the special works board for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.