Ignatius Jesuit Centre
Bill Clarke S.J.
When Jesuit priest Bill Clarke finds himself sharing a tiny room at the Ignatius Farm Community with Byron Dunn, he doesn’t think it will work out. Byron is a hard–drinking former trucker and prison inmate who has shot off half his own face in a failed suicide attempt. Yet, over 13 years, through many ups and downs, the two become close friends. This autobiographical book is about the journey of transformation taken by this Jesuit priest to find new meaning in his vocation.
This is a rare “spiritual growth” book because it appears to be about Byron's journey from violence to grace, but it is also about a priest's need for a constant re–examination of faith in action.
At times humorous, at times deeply moving, “The Face of Friendship” is an incredible story of hope, healing, transformation, and grace that can teach all of us something about friendship, acceptance, and compassion.
Title: The Face of Friendship
Author: Bill Clarke S.J.
Publisher: Novalis
ISBN: 2-89507-485-2
Availability: This book is available through your local book seller or at Loyola House.
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Book Excerpt
“Bill Clarke felt a call to the priesthood and entered the prestigious Jesuit Community, maintaining the high academic standing needed to remain in the order. His life has always been directed towards others.”
“Early in his career, Bill headed the Farm Community in Guelph, set up for ex–prisoners and a few volunteers who acted as their care givers.”
Bill has served as the pastoral minister to the International Council of L’Arche for several years.