The Priest and the Medium: The Amazing True Story Of Psychic Medium B. Anne Gehman And Her Husband, Former Jesuit Priest Wayne Knoll, Ph. D.

by Suzanne R. Giesemann

Psychic medium B. Anne Gehman gave her first spirit readings to her teddy bears at age five. Raised in the Mennonite tradition, she left home at age 14 to finish her schooling. A life-changing near-death experience led Anne to develop her natural gifts, including an uncanny ability to predict future events. She has gained international attention for her help in solving crimes, locating oil and missing persons, healing illnesses, and connecting family members with their loved ones in spirit. She has worked with top government agencies and officials, police departments, judges, and corporate CEOs. While remarkable for her spiritual gifts and experiences, Anne’s life is all the more fascinating due to an unusual she is married to Wayne Knoll, Ph.D., a former Jesuit priest. A brilliant student devoted to his faith, Wayne also left home at 14 to join a Roman Catholic seminary. Even while pursuing his life’s dream as a professor of literature at Georgetown University, Wayne felt an emptiness that only a woman could fill. After more than a decade of religious training, he made the wrenching decision to leave the priesthood, not knowing if he would find the love he sought. The Priest and the Medium shares the remarkable true story of two soul mates on parallel paths with divergent beliefs, yet united in their love for God and each other.“The fascinating story of two of the most interesting people I’ve ever met. It’s a journey that opens a door of possibility for everyone!”— author and medium Sharon A. Klingler 

Genres: Spirituality, Nonfiction, Biography, Religion, Metaphysics, Book Club, Memoir

323 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 15, 2009

Reviews

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I borrowed this book from the people about whom this book is written, Anne and Wayne. They thought that it would help give insight into their lives that otherwise I might miss in our conversations.

They are lovely, caring people and it this is shown in the book. I met them in Grenada through a mutual friend. I was impressed with their openness to discuss all aspects of philosophy and religion in a friendly manner. I am glad that I know them and to have read the book, because now I know what topics to bring up that are interesting to them. I know because the concluding chapter was a discussion between the two of them about their beliefs and where they differ on things.

The book is not your typical read. It seemed embellished at times, but that is expected in readings of non-fiction. I did not like how the author wrote at first, but I eventually came around to see why she did approach things so simply. Often times when dealing in controversial issues it is best to keep things simple and not over complicate them. It made the book an easy read that was straight forward and approachable. It alternated chapters with first Anne's life and then Wayne's until they later met.

In the book Anne and Wayne were very good people. If you do not know them you might think this contrived. However, in reality they are some of the best people I know, and are willing to help anyone if it is in their means. They are also fun to be with, and very gracious and agreeable.

I am still coming to terms with their beliefs, especially Anne's. The works of a medium are unusual and even controversial. On the other hand, the experiences she shares leave little room for doubt, and the spiritualists claim that communicating to the dead is a scientifically proven fact. I have been invited to her church in Virginia, and hope to attend there soon so I can further my understanding of their beliefs.

I was disappointed that they did not include a couple other stories that Anne had shared with me about her work with the FBI and in land speculation. She may not have included it because they may give a bad impression about her, or maybe she was asked to not speak about them.

Overall it was a good read, and I did enjoy the discussion questions at the end. It made me want to ask about why spiritualist are opposed to suicide, when in reality what difference does it make. I guess my real question is what is our purpose in life and how does living relate to that.

It is a book that opens your life to the possibilities of mediumship and what it means to us if it is a way of life for some.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am really enjoying reading this book. I used to visit Cassadaga when I was in high school and attended Sunday services just to try and get read by the mediums. I remember visiting Wilbur Hull with my friend Sheila who was interviewing him for a high school paper. Anne Gehman gave me a reading when I was around 16 and everything that she told me has happened. She is an amazing person and I hope to get to see her again.
This book has brought me back to the healthy thoughts of Spiritualism.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was drawn to this book as it details the life of a medium and former Jesuit priest who wed. I was intrigued by the juxtaposition of the two lifestyles and belief systems between the two. I was not disappointed. This is a fast read, and not bogged down by religious theory, which added to the enjoyment.

[Cranky Commentary (Melinda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting, side by side biographies of two very different people with two very different approaches to their spirituality. Their story is told in alternating chapters, from childhood until adulthood. When they finally meet, they must come to terms with their differences.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a unique true account of two peoples lives that were meant to meet, Anne a Spiritualist and Wayne a Catholic and one time priest.
Coming from two very different backgrounds, the author weaves their lives together in alternate chapters, where we see similarities despite their differences.
A wonderful view into each of their passions, the people they meet and how they make their passions become a reality.
It was fun to delve into the inner works of both Anne's spiritual and Psychic side and to experience the readings that she did for people, and how they were helped.
Also the intellectual, solitary and dedicated side of Wayne's life as he made his way to becoming a priest.
I learned a lot from both stories. This book is so readable and very interesting, full of facts and interesting stories. I could not wait for the two to actually meet.

[Ligita · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the premise of spiritualism and find the subject fascinating. Anne Gehman's life experiences as a medium are very believable. She points out that if you believe in the teachings and healing works of Jesus, you already believe in psychic phenomena and mediumship. She points out that Jesus said, "those things which I do, you can do also" which refers to the gifts of spirit which are healing, clairvoyance, clairaudience and speaking in tongues. Spiritualism doesn't have to replace one's religion but can certainly complement it.

[Mat · Rating 5 out of 5]

from the very first page i loved the way this story was told. you are brought into anne and waynes life in an incredible way. For those who are not sure about an afterlife you will be made a believer. suzanne is a gifted writer who has told a beautiful story. I am sure anne and wayne are so proud of the way that suzanne has written their life story. Idid not want this book to end and i am giving this book to family and friends as a gift to be treasured by all. Tnis book reminds me "a crossing or the drop's history" by Anatoliy Obraztsov with an inspirational storz as well.

[Yycdaisy · Rating 2 out of 5]

If somehow the book could be edited down a little, it might be a more compelling read. As it is, there is a tremendous amount of extraneous detail that may only interest the subject's families, friends of their families, or possibly historians. The sections about Anne were more interesting. The story of Wayne's career and decisions about becoming a priest, then withdrawing, were less so and could have been summarized when he met Anne. At the end there are discussion questions.

[Alexandra Olsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was tossing between 3 and 4 for this one.

This is the second book in a row I have read from this author; the first being the Mavis Pitilla biography, which I rated 5 stars.

My expectations were therefore high for this book - but if I’d read it first I probably would have given it 5 stars.

Again, this book provided an in depth insight into the mechanics of what it’s like to be a medium, and also, a priest!

Not so great points in this read:

1. It was a little repetitive.
2. A bit dry at times; I found myself wanting to rush through the priest chapters to get to the medium chapters
3. The part of the book that dealt with Wayne (priest) and his struggles with celibacy became a bit cringe - especially the part where he was mid-40s talking about short skirts of his students (late teen, early 20s)… it didn’t fall in a romantic/good smut (?!) … it fell old man creepo.

- that aside -

1. I liked how this book depicted Anne as a natural medium from a young age. It was a refreshing depiction in contrast to the Pittila book which emphasised the need for extensive training of mediums.

2. Interesting insights into training/eduction/system of priesthood - not something I’ve ever thought about; interesting nonetheless

The last chapter - the convo between Anne and Wayne - showed a different side to the couple than what was depicted in the story. It was a good addition… a little rambling perhaps.

[Judith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book as I was a big fan of Anne Gehman's back in the late 60's/early 70s. I fist visited Cassadaga in High School and have visited off and on since then. In fact, in HS I actually went to Wilbur Hull who was Anne's mentor. I never knew her background so I was fascinated to learn about it. Giesemann did an excellent job of showing us who she was as well as who Wayne Knoll was. I loved that they could reach the same spiritual level through different means. Having been an English major for the first part of my college education, I would have loved to have had Wayne as a professor.

[Danette Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

This book really helped my spiritual journey I am on, being catholic through high school and evangelical churches later.
I loved the two differing opinions of Wayne and Anne. And thought they really brought to us beautifully how near we are to God and our loved ones.
Now onto find a medium I can relate to. Thank you 🙏🏻

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read

I read this immediately after reading Messages of Hope. Intrigued with Ann's readings. Completed in less than 5 days. Leaves me with questions for Anne and Wayne. :-) Enjoyed their love story and the tenderness they have for each other. Suzanne Giesemann has a way to breathe a story alive.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great ‘warm and fuzzy’ read. Filled with goosebump-inducing moments and even some tearful ones, this book was very inspiring. Full of heart-felt tales from both Wayne and Anne it was lovely. It was a bit slow at times and took me a while to finish, but it was a nice read and I did enjoy the story.

[linda g. bustos · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Priest and the Medium

I enjoyed reading this book. It’s a beautiful love story between 2 people of entirely different backgrounds, beliefs, and ideas yet able to love and respect support each other. A must read.

[Jean Lant · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun look at the unknown and the uncertain. I read in book club and we had a video chat with the author. Very good time. So, is thee some connection to the spirit world. This book may help you decided.

[Kathy Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh, wow

I loved reading this book. I was raised Catholic…and I’m a believer in spiritualism….I believe in so much that was shared in this book. The fact that the book is a true story makes it even better. Thank you, Suzanne, for writing this book.

[Adrian Chudleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just because you have your Ph. D. does not mean you are always right and to live your life with an open mind. That is exactly what Wayne Knoll did. This book is an eye opener for anyone who has doubts about the potential and power of spiritual mediums.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read

Interesting Read. They are both beautiful people instead and out. Really enjoyed this book, could not put it down. Enjoy

[Patty Loftus Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really liked this beautiful and inspiring love story, with proof of the continuation of consciousness. One of those books you can't put down.

[HEATHER BUNCE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting

I would recommend this book to anybody interested in Spirituality. It was well written and both Ann and Wayne are amazing people.

[thomas ireland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas Ireland

I love this book it the best book I have read on medium ship it tells the truth about the spirit world

[Toni Lamotta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend

The story of two people from very different backgrounds who exemplify acceptance as well as Oneness. Enjoyable and provocative read.

[Kristin Walcott · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a truly lovely story about two individuals who live seemingly disparate lives but eventually find each other. Is it the will of God? Is it orchestrated by Spirit? These and many other questions will dance around your head and your heart as you join medium B. Anne Gehman and her husband, former Jesuit priest Wayne Knoll, PhD. on their spiritual journeys.

The book tells each person’s story—altering between Anne and Wayne—in a linear fashion from the 1930’s through the early 2000’s. Their lives are so different and yet so similar, it is fascinating to watch them develop and unfold side by side in this book. As the book progressed, I could not imagine what would bring these two extraordinary people together.

Although my desire to know how Anne and Wayne met and fell in love was an impetus to keep me reading, it was not the only one. It is the determination and faith of each of these characters that kept me invested in their stories and their growth. Initially, I was most intrigued by Anne’s special gifts as a medium, but I became equally fascinated with Wayne’s journey into the priesthood. Both Anne and Wayne are so confident and passionate about their paths and purposes, it is inspiring.

A treat at the end of the book is an interview the author did with Wayne and Anne. It is honest and thoughtful and really gives you a sense of what they mean to one another and how their mutual respect for the others faith only brings them closer—to each other, to God, and to Spirit. My favorite quote from the interview comes from Wayne when discussing an irreconcilable intellectual difference between Anne and him:

“…If we cannot—not just Anne and me, but humankind—if we cannot maintain mutual respect when there are intellectual differences, then all civilization is tribal….Then the only people that matter are those in our tribe. And this is why we have such problems in the world today. We don’t all have to be Spiritualists or Catholics, but we do need mutual respect, while maintaining the integrity of one’s personal identity.” Amen.

[Sharon Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an amazing story about two extraordinary individuals - a Jesuit priest and a medium. The book describes their lives in alternating chapters and in so doing, it highlights the parallels in their lives. Both Wayne and Anne were very dedicated to their spiritual paths which were very different. Yet, despite this, they fell in love, and discovered new perspectives from each other. Wayne's long, arduous journey into priesthood and obtaining a PhD from Harvard was incredible. Anne's perseverance in developing her skills as a medium and psychic, brought her extraordinary abilities that even led her to work with police to solve crimes. Both Wayne and Anne left home at 14, achieving all of this on their own. I was fascinated not only with each of their stories, but also how they could find love and mutual respect, when their spiritual ideas varied so greatly. I highly recommend this book as it opens the mind to new perspectives.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wonderful recounting of B. Anne Gehman's life as a truly gifted medium from childhood to present day. The reader is treated with accounts of Anne's teachers who helped her better understand her gifts as well as how to use them to assist/comfort humanity in all aspects of life. I am especially gratified to learn how Anne and her husband came to respect each other's beliefs, to learn from each other with love and honesty. An active medium to present day, the writer capturess that special connection to Spirit of which we all are a part.

[Lerline Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

With this being a true story, I find it interesting how the majority of people mix witchcraft with their believes of Jesus Christ and calling these demons spirit guides. Any one who studies the bible and believe it's every word knows it says mediums, soothsayers, spiritists, sorcerers, any one who calls up the dead are an abomination to the Lord. They are not speaking to their loved ones they are speaking to familiar spirits. The bible teaches when we die we go to sleep until his 2nd coming at which time the rapture takes place.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A medium book with priest

This book was about two people and how they both honored God. But in vastly different ways. The blending of these two if very necessary I have thought all my life. My grands and I have seen spirit and several of my children and nieces and nephews. But we still go to church and I even teach class and teach meditation to the group. This book goes into life of two beautiful people and accents the way energy works in their lives. A must read for any catholic struggling with spirituality

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely story of two people who lived separate lives then finally meet and fall in love. One is a gifted medium, and her life story is fascinating. The other is an academic who was also a Jesuit priest. The background of his journey to the priesthood is also very interesting. I had no idea about the different types of monastic orders. The book is by nature very spiritual and encourages readers to think about God, prayer and meditation, especially for problem solving.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, which is a captivating and uncommon love story. It tells the story of two individuals, in alternate chapters, who are on separate yet ultimately similar spiritual quests. Anne is a (apparently) well-known spiritualist medium and her husband a Jesuit priest and professor. The writing is solid and straightforward, if not literary. I was quickly pulled into the story and found it hard to put down. Now that it's over, I'm a bit sad.

[Susan Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good writing

I give this book a high rating because the author did a very fine job of weaving two life stories together. If you believe in Spiritualism you will enjoy this read. If you do not, red flags abound. If I had a chance to talk with President Kennedy, I would ask him some intelligent questions. If the world really worked like this medium says, what a more splendid place it would be.