These Thy Gifts

This is a very topical book as the plot deals with the uncovering of the extensive network of paedophile priests whose activities had been actively covered up by the hierarchy of the Catholic Church, as it cares far more for the reputation of the church than for the well-being of the young innocents who have been abused and corrupted. The hero of the story is a good Catholic priest. He wrestles with temptation but in a normal heterosexual way. He is horrified to learn first-hand of this cover-up, and risks losing his job to bring the perpetrator in his own parish to justice. Father Steve is a sympathetic character, as is Rosalie, the widow of a mafia gangster, with whom this plot is also concerned. The story spans decades and includes Father Steve’s foray as an army chaplain in Vietnam. It is a fascinating book and left me feeling very sorry for those Catholic priests who are not paedophiles, as they wrestle with the unpalatable knowledge that the church they work for is itself fundamentally corrupt.

This is a great story that takes a span of over fifty years and it proudly carries the depth and the breadth of such a long period. Steven Trimboli is a Catholic priest, but nevertheless imperfect human being. Yet, if a priest can ever be perfect in his imperfection, that would be this dynamic and highly likable persona. Do the church and the mafia have something in common? When they pair by evil, they most certainly do, but Steven Trimboli is not the one who likes keeping it quiet. That is one of his most remarkable qualities - he is brazen and outspoken and speaks with an honesty that has an almost childlike innocence. Indeed, that makes him a thorn in the eyes of the powerful church people like Barillo and a toy in the hands of the mafia. I found myself cheering for Trimboli and wishing to see more people like him - someone who, for chrissakes, speaks when he needs to! However, he is also torn by his own life’s sins and decisions and this is how his life has an unexpected turn, as he becomes a father and finds surprising love. I loved the characters. They are alive, well-portrayed and carry the action with vigor. Just as Steven is an almost naive justice-seeker, so is Barillo cold-blooded and vicious, the mobster Tony La Marca is not delusional about how will his life end, and Rosalie is a vehement survivor who will engage all her powers when necessary. I loved this beautiful story of life, love and justice - grab it!

These Thy Gifts is a tale that spans the lifetime of a Catholic priest going from past to present. We first Steve in 1956 a young stubborn and  determined priest. He wanted to stand up for what was right and never backed down from a fight.  The back and forth between times brings understanding of why the incident involving Eddie touches him deeply. Also explains how different relationships were formed. The characters were realistic if not exactly diverse since many of the women characters fit a stereotype of the strong, opinionated woman who is still compassionate. The story pace is steady. Steve spends his lifetime feeling guilty for his one indiscretion that led to the birth of his daughter. He takes the continually bad placements in atonement for that moment. In comparison, Dykes and Schaeffer felt no guilt for their acts nor truly felt sorry as they figured out ways to push their ugly acts under the rug. The ending surprised me but also gave me a slight feeling of retribution. I hate to see people who should always be protected like children abused or taken advantage of. Overall, good read for anyone who likes historical fiction mixed with romance and controversial truths.