Enduring Wisdom for Today's Spiritual Seekers

Father James Basik has been at it a long time and has heard and seen it all. The popular pastor and university chaplain understands the issues that face all people—especially young adults—as they try to navigate today’s complex world of work, relationships, and civic involvement. And he knows—from years of preaching, counseling, and ministry—the enduring wisdom that the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, Luke, and John have to offer spiritual seekers today. Whether you are Catholic or not, practicing your religion or not, happy or unhappy or sometimes a little of both, this book can help you decide who you are and where you stand. Each of the reflections offers a specific daily-life topic, a Gospel passage or story that offers relevant insight, several examples of people trying to live out their faith in real time, and a final challenging question for the reader to mull (or pray) over.

Praise for Father Bacik's Work

"A lesson I learned early into my graduate work: 'Never tell anyone the truth without first eliciting—even indirectly—the implicit question your truth answers or relates to.' This, of course, holds true for teaching and preaching. And this is the big mistake most preachers make. So Jim Bacik’s structure for Enduring Wisdom is right on. Each short section begins with a question. And each “answer” is grounded in human experience. And, of course, scripture and solid theology. The book is meaty. There is no spiritual fluff here. Jim is a clear writer because he is such an excellent teacher. An excellent resource for Bible study programs, adult theology programs at parishes or universities, and RCIA programs."—Father Donald Cozzen, priest, author, theologian, novelist

“Ever the masterful teacher and storyteller, Father Bacik integrates the power of the Gospel witness with the teachings of the Church and brings their meaning to life. In a style reminiscent of the parables of Jesus, he uses stories of real-life people to address the challenges that Christians face in their daily lives. Readers are encouraged to allow the message of the Gospel to speak to their heart in practical and transformative ways.” — Shannon Schrein, OSF, President,
College Theology Society

"Daily bread...in a pagan age. Christianity masterfully presented in essential Gospel bits. Informative, insightful, spiritual.”— Marcy Kaptur, United States House of Representatives, Ohio’s 9th Congressional District

“How might I be a more loving person? How could I confront hateful actions in my family or in my neighborhood? What is expected of me when racial slights occur in the workplace? How do I best demonstrate care for the poor and the homeless? What is my responsibility to care for my community, my nation, and the Earth? Father Bacik’s reflections help all spiritual seekers find answers to these practical, everyday concerns.”— David J. Berger, Mayor of Lima, Ohio