Thief Prisoner Soldier Priest

by Paul Cowley

Paul Cowley grew up in Manchester amid the chaotic world of his alcoholic parents. His early exposure to heavy drinking, explosive arguments and the unnerving aggression of his father led him into homelessness and crime. By seventeen he was behind bars.

Years later, following a career in the army which 'made a man of him' yet ultimately failed to give him direction and purpose, Paul's search for meaning resulted in an unexpected encounter with God that changed his life for ever.

This remarkable and touching account of his early years, from thief to prisoner, soldier and, eventually, priest, should inspire anyone who feels their life is out of control. It is, by turns, a dramatic, traumatic and comic story, yet one that stands as a testament to how God offers hope to all who have the courage to respond.

Genres: Christian

272 pages, Paperback

Published September 27, 2022

Reviews

[Keri McVeigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly powerful testimony

[Sammy Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had not heard of Paul Cowley before reading his story. I picked up his book at a chaplaincy in HMS Sultan for free. He had kindly donated several copies to the chaplaincy. Paul's story is remarkable, more so because it shows the amazing change that can occur when we put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ. I have seen first hand the impact Alpha for Forces has had, so it was a joy to see how that ministry came to fruition. I finished the book with a compassion for the prisoners and prison staff which was probably the intention. I'll definitely be passing my copy on by leaving it somewhere for someone else to pick up and read. And if you're reading this review Paul, thanks for sharing your story!

[Marguerite Leggett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can a person really change?

The first half of the book is the story of Paul Cowley’s life without God. He wasn’t really bad or really good, he just seemed the product of his circumstances. The army helped him but nothing really satisfied and he couldn’t make his relationships with women last.

Then he makes a connection with God and discovers God wants a relationship with him and guides him down a new path he would never have imagined. In his own words ‘we are all unremarkable people whose lives can be made remarkable by God.’

[Noel Webb · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read

An open and honest account of a life well lived. I am particularly taken by the thoughts on material vs spiritual (not necessarily religious) living

[Kayleigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of Paul's life is phenominal, however I wasn't the biggest fan of the writing style as it felt out of order and repetitive.

[Julian Onions · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story of someone I've apparently met, or at least seen. Quite a mixed life.

[Debb Hackett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating, informative and encouraging.

[Barbara Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE this book. Love the genuine honesty and openness. Beautiful man, beautiful wife, what a great ministry. Inspirational.

[Ewan Chadwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant and inspiring story of hope and redemption

[Kentishman · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and challenging autobiography is followed by Paul Cowley's conversion to Christianity and some insights into problems with the prison service in the UK.