How the Faithful survived evil bishops

We would do well in this time of scandal to recall Paul Harvey’s words . . . “In times like these, it is helpful to remember that there have always been times like these.” For sexual scandals and improper behavior among religious leaders are nothing new. Incredibly, St. Peter Damian wrote about the "cancer" of active homosexuality among the clergy over 900 years ago. He warned that it was “creeping through the clerical order…like a cruel beast within the sheepfold of Christ.”  In this astonishing, highly revealing and sometimes amusing book, Church historian Rod Bennett offers some much-needed perspective, lest we despair. These eye-opening pages, introduce a number of bad shepherds, including . . . Pope Stephen VII, who so hated his late predecessor that he had him dug up, put on trial, and flung into the Tiber. Benedict IX, who bought and sold the papacy (twice!). And Pope John XII, whose debauchery rivaled that of the corrupt emperor Caligula. While these leaders were doing these evil deeds, good Catholics not only survived — they thrived. They transcended their bad shepherds, preserved the traditions, and served as the foundation for a vigorous renewal of the Faith. By bringing to light what happened before, these enlightening pages provide hope and a path to making restoration and renewal happen again. Bad Shepherds: The Dark Years in Which the Faithful Thrived While Bishops Did the Devil's Work by Rod Bennett Paperback — 160 pages List price: $17.95  Today's Sale Price: $14.99! BUY NOW Even with historical context, the abuse crisis facing the Church will likely still weigh heavy on your heart. But do not let yourself give in to despair. These pages will help you gain peace by showing you how to understand, and conquer, any trouble, no matter how great. Here you'll learn how to avoid the mistakes most of us make when we're suffering - mistakes that only make our burdens heavier. You'll come to see that misfortunes are not the blind workings of chance, but are vital elements in God's loving plan. With the wisdom in these pages, you'll soon be using your troubles as instruments to unleash God's healing power in your soul. Here you'll discover: How to preserve your peace even amid troubles you can't avoid   Pain: the surprising role it can play in God's loving plan for you   Hope: how you can gain the life-transforming power of this virtue   How you can bring Christ's light to others in their own sorrow   Why suffering is no compelling argument against Faith   How to turn even your worst troubles into opportunities for good   Despair: the amazing way you can avoid giving in to it, no matter how heavy your burdens   And a wealth of practical wisdom to help you sing God's praises even in the worst of times! Get TWO books for only $17.99! BUY NOW Order online above, or call 1-800-888-9344 www.SophiaInstitute.com Get one book a month for only $15? Learn more: