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Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation
Only 2 in 10 Americans under 30 believe attending a church is important or worthwhile. Well over half of young adults raised in the Church have dropped out with many having a strong anti-Church stance, many even believing the Church does more harm than good.Fr. Josh Johnson was one of these people. In Broken and Blessed he tackles the harsh realities facing the Church in the 21st century. With charity and courage he speaks to his own generation of Catholic “Millennials,” who often feel their needs and concerns are not being addressed by the Church, or who simply do not believe the Catholic Faith has any relevance to their lives. Using his own experiences, both as a former struggling young Catholic and as a priest, Fr. Josh offers an inspiring witness of how he came to know God, rather than just knowing about him—and presents practical ways for us to truly know God as well. Broken and ● Addresses head-on Millennials’ most pressing issues with the Catholic Faith ● Presents powerful and inspiring stories from Fr. Josh’s own faith journey ● Shows how one can truly encounter Jesus in a personal way ● Offers practical insights on how to overcome habitual sins ● Discusses the nature of prayer, as well as the challenges to prayer and how to overcome them
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2018
90 people are currently reading
310 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 10, 2021
This was an exceptional and honest book that is going to be one I return to and recommend many times over. Full of practical wisdom and prayers for everyday people, I am excited to put it into practice.
December 26, 2018
Fr. Josh is a REAL person! There is no grandstanding or false truisms contained in this book. Just a broken human reiterating the miracle that is Christ and His Church, and communicating the goodness it holds. It's so refreshing to have a clergy person speak of their own flaws realistically and without fear!
So often, we treat men of the cloth as celebrities (incapable of making mistakes and when they do, well, then "damn them all to hell and their church too!"). Fr. Josh doesn't give time to this false narrative. He leads with his own brokenness and concludes with grace! He gives real examples from his own life to share with the reader, encouraging and challenging him to improve WITH him!
God bless, Fr. Josh! Thank you for being relateable, and thank you for sharing yourself and your vocation! Much love and many prayers for you.
So often, we treat men of the cloth as celebrities (incapable of making mistakes and when they do, well, then "damn them all to hell and their church too!"). Fr. Josh doesn't give time to this false narrative. He leads with his own brokenness and concludes with grace! He gives real examples from his own life to share with the reader, encouraging and challenging him to improve WITH him!
God bless, Fr. Josh! Thank you for being relateable, and thank you for sharing yourself and your vocation! Much love and many prayers for you.
May 19, 2021
DNF. A little too preachy for me and I think he missed the mark on why my generation has turned away from the church. His story is interesting and I appreciate his attempts to communicate with a younger generation as a priest, but he makes some assumptions about what people feel that didn't fit with my worldview. My bookclub girls say the later chapters were better but 🤷♀️
January 24, 2019
Inspirational
Broken and Blessed was informative and inspirational. I loved the quotes from some saints and was impressed with Fr. Josh’s sharing of his life experiences. This was a book filled with faith stories,challenges to enter into an intimate relationship with Jesus and God’s blessed assurance that we are loved , Thanks Fr. Josh.
Broken and Blessed was informative and inspirational. I loved the quotes from some saints and was impressed with Fr. Josh’s sharing of his life experiences. This was a book filled with faith stories,challenges to enter into an intimate relationship with Jesus and God’s blessed assurance that we are loved , Thanks Fr. Josh.
June 15, 2020
This is a beautiful, inspiring book. Fr. Josh's own faith journey speaks to the heart of our unity in brokenness and worthiness in the healing power of Christ. There's a spot on the keeper shelf for continued reference.
May 3, 2024
4.5 stars- pretty succinct and punchy; enjoyed more than I thought I would; extra half star bc he signed my book for me :)
January 8, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a reminder of the important elements of the Catholic faith: prayer, Sacred Scripture, and the virtues. We are all 'Broken and Blessed' and yet, Jesus, accepts us as we are if we invite Him into our lives. Written by a young priest for a young generation, it invites all Catholics to enter the faith through life with Christ. The author addresses many of the common opinions and thoughts young people have about the faith and the Catholic Church as an institution.
June 20, 2022
Recommend? Yes! I think Catholics at any stage can gain nuggets from this spiritual read.
Father Josh Johnson intertwines his autobiography, scripture, and real-life examples of being Catholic from unique or worldly experiences from others in his life. For the most part, each chapter has a central focus in which Father first addresses his own struggles, then finds where in the Bible this is covered, and lastly, gives practical examples and a unique prayer from saints or the Church to go forth. Every chapter ends with discussion and meditation questions to dive deeper as to what has been said (these are especially useful if meditated upon in front of the Blessed Sacrament). My only gripe is that the bulk (or meat) of every chapter could have been more thoughtfully organized. At times, I found it challenging to follow the jumps that were made from one idea to the next. More natural and smooth transitions as well as having a consistent flow could have benefitted readers.
A few take-a-ways that I will remember:
1. We are all sinners and will continue to sin. But guess what? Jesus still loves you. Don't strive for perfectionism but instead focus on continual self improvement and growth in virtue one day at a time.
2. Mortifications ought to be a gradual process. You can't defeat your biggest sins unless you begin tackling small sins first. For example, if you find pleasure from lust, start by denying yourself pleasures that are not sinful such as listening to music you enjoy or adding salt and pepper to your meals.
3. Everything can be a prayer if only we offer it to Jesus throughout the day. This is one of the many ways in which we can grow in intimacy with Jesus.
4. God can work through anyone - broken or blessed, holy or stained - to do His will and create good.
Father Josh Johnson intertwines his autobiography, scripture, and real-life examples of being Catholic from unique or worldly experiences from others in his life. For the most part, each chapter has a central focus in which Father first addresses his own struggles, then finds where in the Bible this is covered, and lastly, gives practical examples and a unique prayer from saints or the Church to go forth. Every chapter ends with discussion and meditation questions to dive deeper as to what has been said (these are especially useful if meditated upon in front of the Blessed Sacrament). My only gripe is that the bulk (or meat) of every chapter could have been more thoughtfully organized. At times, I found it challenging to follow the jumps that were made from one idea to the next. More natural and smooth transitions as well as having a consistent flow could have benefitted readers.
A few take-a-ways that I will remember:
1. We are all sinners and will continue to sin. But guess what? Jesus still loves you. Don't strive for perfectionism but instead focus on continual self improvement and growth in virtue one day at a time.
2. Mortifications ought to be a gradual process. You can't defeat your biggest sins unless you begin tackling small sins first. For example, if you find pleasure from lust, start by denying yourself pleasures that are not sinful such as listening to music you enjoy or adding salt and pepper to your meals.
3. Everything can be a prayer if only we offer it to Jesus throughout the day. This is one of the many ways in which we can grow in intimacy with Jesus.
4. God can work through anyone - broken or blessed, holy or stained - to do His will and create good.
November 27, 2018
Fr. Josh is a breath of fresh air in the Church. He's a self described "80's baby" and so many of the things he referenced in the book appealed to my own memories. This book is part memoir, part reversion, part discernment, and a lot of fun. In each chapter he shares his heart with the reader offering personal insights and wisdom he's learned (often through hard knocks) which he humorously shares with the reader. I especially appreciated his sharing of how he prays. Not just a formulaic outline, but almost as if you were stepping inside his prayer and seeing how it works. Each chapter ends with thoughtful questions and a prayer to help you jump start your own experience. This is a book I will come back to, and have each of my daughters read. He's not perfect, as none of us are, but this book can help us, as he says, on our walk to eternity.
January 11, 2022
A good, but not great, book that essentially aims at spirituality. As the title suggests, Fr. Johnson reinforces that we (people, the Church, the priesthood) are broken, and that the answer lies in a deeper humility and prayer life.
He offers suggested prayers (such as the Litany of Humility) that are available elsewhere and, while appropriate, don't require another book.
Where the book shines is in the various ways Fr. Johnson and his mentors respond when someone is critical of the Church, or is unwilling or not ready to engage in a deeper prayer or moral life ... it's okay, you don't need to change before you engage in a deeper spirituality. For most people, it's quite the reverse - seek prayer first, and the change will follow. You're not a hypocrite in doing so - you're broken, like the rest of us.
He offers suggested prayers (such as the Litany of Humility) that are available elsewhere and, while appropriate, don't require another book.
Where the book shines is in the various ways Fr. Johnson and his mentors respond when someone is critical of the Church, or is unwilling or not ready to engage in a deeper prayer or moral life ... it's okay, you don't need to change before you engage in a deeper spirituality. For most people, it's quite the reverse - seek prayer first, and the change will follow. You're not a hypocrite in doing so - you're broken, like the rest of us.
March 15, 2022
I read this book for Lent. This book was written for millennials, but I think it can relate to the younger generations and probably even Gen X. This book was very relatable and Fr. Josh gives really good examples to a lot of issues that can keep people away from the faith or Church, and uses the catechism and Bible to explain those issues. He also gives great advice and gives suggestions on how to solve each issue. It was very easy to read and understand. I recommend this book to anyone who has basic questions about the Catholic Church, or who is trying to come back to the Church.
June 4, 2019
Goes right to the heart of everything! Would be great for a small group study, especially to draw the discussion deeper if you’ve been hanging out on the surface. I’d also recommend checking out one of his videos or podcasts before reading, so you can “hear” his voice as you read the book. :) Has a beautiful and authentic focus on prayer, as a thread woven throughout the whole book. He also does a great job of incorporating personal & Scripture stories.
December 10, 2019
Best book ever!
This is absolutely the best Catholic book I have read in a long time. While his target audience are millennial, I am in my 50s and I found it very timely for everyone. It comes straight from the heart and he gives great advice and suggestions. I'm thinking of proposing a book group with this book. I can't stop thinking about some of the things he said. Way to go Fr. Josh!
This is absolutely the best Catholic book I have read in a long time. While his target audience are millennial, I am in my 50s and I found it very timely for everyone. It comes straight from the heart and he gives great advice and suggestions. I'm thinking of proposing a book group with this book. I can't stop thinking about some of the things he said. Way to go Fr. Josh!
January 15, 2021
This book was an easy read yet encouraged me to really take time to grow in my relationship with God and His church. It spoke to me throughout the book and I feel like it would do the same for other. Strongly encourage everyone to read this book and also check out his Podcast “Ask Father Josh” through Ascension. He is very relatable and I truly appreciate his vulnerability in the writings of this book!
April 26, 2021
This book is a brilliant read and would recommend to all young people, especially one's preparing for confirmation. Also anyone that has questions and doubts about their faith, Fr Josh has had them also and during those doubts discovered the calling to the priesthood. During lockdown have been watching him give Mass from the church in Baton Rouge. This helped tie everything together. Highly recommended read !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2021
4 stars. Father Josh’s writing style is easy to read and so refreshingly honest! I am used to seeing older priests, and as another catholic minority, I can relate to some of his experiences. He is truly a humble man with a great heart, and a love for Christ, the Church, and for others. My friend gave this to me as a confirmation present, and it was really the perfect book to read right after being received into the Church.
April 24, 2025
A beautifully simple book that touches on many core topics that should be important in our lives today - faith, communion with others, prayer life, etc. It does a great job of providing guiding questions along the way to take to prayer, which hopefully gets us to become aware of our strengths and weaknesses and how God is calling us to more. Definitely recommend for any young adult trying to navigate the waters of a strong faith in the midst of a secular & depressed culture.
March 27, 2020
Not exactly what I was thinking the book would be... I thought it was going to be a more “apologetics” kind of book about some catholic doctrines or social issues etc. It was more like his personal experience becoming less active to active to being a priest and common suggestions about being a better Christian. It was decent... some corny spots but not bad... kind of expensive for what it is.
June 28, 2022
Super quick read. The prayers concluding each chapter were nice and perhaps the most valuable piece of the book. The chapters themselves were full of Fr. Johnson’s thoughts about faith. While I appreciate his insight, I wonder if Fr. Johnson wrestles with his faith at all. Everything seemed easy if one would just trust a little harder.
December 19, 2024
While there are some really useful analogies and tips, overall I found this book boring and very basic. Generally speaking, it goes over very simple concepts and biblical commentary without providing any real new insight. It is very preachy. I initially thought the prayers at the end of the chapter were really nice but then found those to be repetitive. I’d probably give it a 2.5 stars.
June 7, 2019
An awe inspiring book
Simple but riveting. Broken and Blessed has revived my own commitment to prayer, to the word of God, to living out my faith and all in all my personal relationship with God. A must read for everyone who wants to deepen their relationship with God
Simple but riveting. Broken and Blessed has revived my own commitment to prayer, to the word of God, to living out my faith and all in all my personal relationship with God. A must read for everyone who wants to deepen their relationship with God
February 15, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to use some of the ways Fr Josh recommends to deepen my relationship with God. I needed to read this at this very moment of my life. He shows us that he is a "real" person just like us and struggles with the same things we do!!
April 10, 2022
phenomenal
Wonderful read for Catholics of all ages! Fr. Josh helps bring to light difficulties we experience in everyday life and ways to overcome them to bring ourselves closer to God.
Wonderful read for Catholics of all ages! Fr. Josh helps bring to light difficulties we experience in everyday life and ways to overcome them to bring ourselves closer to God.
July 17, 2022
Father Josh was the priest in our parish when he was newly ordained. He was the only priest my children would stay awake for and listen to. I was so excited to get his book because I knew that it would be just as accessible and it is. What a great read!
May 6, 2023
Josh crushes it!! What a radical book that people can read where the Holy Spirit uses him to meet us in the middle. No condemnation, but truth about sin. No fake agenda but God's own promises and love. What a beautiful book. Totally recommend.
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August 25, 2023I enjoyed reading Fr. Josh's book. He shows a "human side" of being a priest. He shares some of his struggles with living a Catholic life during his early life, while at the same time answers many questions about Catholic life.
October 20, 2018
Very real and relatable. Easy applications in how to find time for prayer and Jesus. Perfect for those searching for a simple way to bring Jesus into your daily life.
November 5, 2018
Excellent book for anyone even if it targets young adults. Really focused on our relationship with Jesus through prayer with stories and practical steps. Highly recommend.
February 6, 2019
Very insightful book by this young priest.
May 15, 2019
At the heart, this book has phenomenal insight and valuable examples to strengthen one's faith and understanding. However, it's disconnected/disorderly, which makes it difficult to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews