Uncommon Faith: The Early Years of Opus Dei

by John F. Coverdale

This book explores the early years of Opus Dei and shows why St. Josemaría Escrivá so quickly became renowned for his sanctity. Bringing to light details found only in hard-to-find Spanish sources, author John Coverdale highlights St. Josemaría’s tireless, courageous efforts to spread the message of lay holiness even amid the terror and uncertainty of the Spanish Civil War. Coverdale explains how St. Josemaría helped others find Jesus Christ through a lay spirituality that anticipated Vatican II by thirty years. Uncommon Faith is an absorbing, highly readable introduction to the life of a towering modern saint — and essential reading for anyone searching for the key to the Church’s renewal in our age. It will be of interest to anyone who keeps up with developments in the contemporary Church, as well as to scholars of Spanish history and Church history.

Genres: Christianity

396 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2002

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not know much about the Spanish civil war or Opus Dei before reading this book. It is an amazing story. Some of the reading is a little dense, but the information is so enlightening. I watched "There be Dragons" before reading it and that helped me to put some events into sequence. What an amazing Man, such faith! It makes me want to live my life dedicated to God's work and to seek holiness in every aspect of my daily life!

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterful retelling of the origin story of Opus Dei, focusing on its founder, St. Josemaria, and early members. It is particularly useful for an English-speaking audience that may not be familiar with Spanish history, geography, and customs. Though I knew the main thrust of the story, I did learn many new things, particularly about Spanish politics during the first half of the twentieth century and especially about the Spanish Civil War. The narrative weaves in and out between necessary background about Spain during that time and the matter at hand: Opus Dei. Highly recommended reading for anyone looking to understand Opus Dei better!

[Y Salib · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good book about the origin and the first group of Opus Dei. A little long on Spanish history but the chapters are separated so it could be skipped if desired.
Unfortunately it does not continue the story
I really loved it!

[Quyen Quyen]

I love this book very much.

[Ralph Wechuli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Difficulty beginnings for the Work