Ancestral Grace: Meeting God in Our Human Story

by Diarmuid O'Murchu

This astounding account of humankind, from our beginnings in Africa seven million years ago through the life of Jesus to the present, blends history, anthropology, and spirituality to demonstrate that God has been and always will be with us. It's one of those rare books that will change the way you see everything!

270 pages, Paperback

First published August 27, 2008

About the author

Diarmuid O'Murchu, a member of the Sacred Heart Missionary Order, and a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin Ireland, is a social psychologist most of whose working life has been in social ministry, predominantly in London, UK. In that capacity he has worked as a couple's counsellor, in bereavement work, AIDS-HIV counselling, and laterally with homeless people and refugees. As a workshop leader and group facilitator he has worked in Europe, USA, Canada, Australia, The Philippines, Thailand,
India, Peru and in several African countries, facilitating programmes on Adult Faith Development.

His best known books include Quantum Theology (1996 - revised in 2004), Reclaiming Spirituality (1998), Evolutionary Faith (2002), Catching Up with Jesus (2005), The Transformation of Desire (2007), Ancestral Grace (2008), Jesus in the Power of Poetry (2009).

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an interesting read the looks at the full evolution of humankind, and why it is important to remember. Blending science and theology is important, and doesn't have to be in conflict. While I may not agree with some of the conclusions Diamuid O'Murchu reaches, I do agree this is an important and interesting dialogue to have.

[Gerry Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

In essence this is a riveting and compelling book for our time. I found it to be a wise, elegant and prophetic treatise of our graced evolutionary story - and an incisive reminder of our human plight: the quest for meaning and healing communion in these tumultuous and fragmented times. As with all O'Murchu's books, it is well researched and thought-provoking and a book that truly expands the horizons of our spiritual quest for understanding, leading ultimately to a more authentic and deeply grounded faith life. This book is indeed a beautiful, shining beacon of hope.

[Michael · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sincere but ludicrous attempt to reconcile/fuse archaeological evidence with Christian mythology.