The Deacon: An Unexpected Life

by Thomas Fargnoli

STORY SYNOPSIS

We often end up living an “unexpected” life. Yet through it, glimmers of hope, faith, love and peace find their way through.

After being married for forty years and serving the Catholic Church as a deacon for the last five years, leaving the diaconate was the last thing on my mind.

Life was good—wife, home, children, grandchildren, health, retirement, and an amazing ministry. Never did I expect to be a suicide survivor. Grieving the loss of my wife was difficult enough, but with suicide, the grieving process was much more intense. Being a deacon in the Catholic Church intensified that process even more.

The Catholic Church made it clear. I could not stay a deacon and pursue another loving relationship that could lead to marriage. I was aware of the rule, but after two years of discernment, I couldn’t seem to make a decision. This battle put me into the hospital for open-heart surgery. Finally, with God’s help, I made my decision.

Rick, a local reporter, wanted to interview me with regard to my diaconate experience and how I came to that decision. Rick turned out to be more than a reporter. This is my story. Through it, I hope glimmers of hope, faith, love and peace find their way through your clouds as well.

Proceeds go to Suicide Awareness

Reviews:

First, let me start by saying I’m not an avid reader. So, if your excuse is I don’t read, that’s nonsense. Buy this book. Again, buy this book and read it. Share it. Share what the word is he’s sharing with you. A very difficult topic that helps make it very clear what people need in a situation like Tom. It hooks you from the first chapter. And each chapter after ends with a hook to keep you wanting to come back for more. A tragedy that takes you through a spiritual, compassionate, and loving story. This book had me tearing up multiple times while reading. It made me angry at times. It also made me happy and feel more at peace with myself. Tom makes you feel that you are part of the story, that you are with him on this very difficult journey. You feel his joy, you feel his pain. You feel the emotional roller coaster as he tells it. Although you know he is a religious man as you read it’s not forced on you but you do know where he stands. And honestly it’s refreshing to have someone so dedicated, determined, and driven. But as you read and continue to read you feel at peace by books end. And wow what an end. In short, it’s well worth the read. Very happy I chose to buy this book by a truly one of a kind good man.

– William Donley

The author has excellent insight and explains the power of God very well; especially in that this power is available to all through faith, and is most truly felt during times of loss and tragedy. The Lord can bring goodness from suffering and can use such sorrow to transform us, as expressed so very well by the author. Scripture tells us not to be afraid, to trust in God, to ask for His love and consolation and that such sincere requests will never be denied. Suicide is a complex problem, and the author succeeds in elevating awareness and in deconstructing the stigma which persists in denying victims and their survivors the compassion and understanding that is so much needed. God willing, his writing will result in help for many innocents.

– Hal Jordan

I am an avid reader who has come across the book “The Deacon, an Unexpected Life” by: Thomas Fargnoli; I have to say it was truly uplifting.
Many authors can tell a story yet very few can write in a way that makes the reader feel as though they are a part of his story.
Mr. Fargnoli gives you insight into a journey he and his family have taken. Beginning with a search of ones self to a time of sadness and disappointment. Only, to arrive at peace and happiness.
I definitely recommend this book as a must read. For I believe you will find renewed faith, peace, hope and happiness.

– Ralph Corchado

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BOOK DETAILS

Publisher: Bublish, Incorporated

Published Date: April 25, 2024

The Deacon: An Unexpected Life

by Thomas Fargnoli

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