This is a personal story about some of the most famous engineers Scotland has ever produced and places the lives and work of the world-famous Stevenson lighthouse engineers in their social and historical context. It draws on eye witness accounts from Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
A comprehensive account and an inspiring engineering story of this iconic Scottish lighthouse. The Lighthouse on Skerryvore also discusses the personal background and complex personality of the remarkable Victorian engineer, Alan Stevenson, who designed and built it.
Following his acclaimed work, A Song for Nagasaki, in which Fr. Paul Glynn told the powerful story of Dr. Nagai, a Christian convert of remarkable courage and compassion who ministered to victims of the atomic bomb attack on his city, The Smile of a Ragpicker brings us the heroic story of Satoko Kitahara, a young, beautiful woman of wealth who gave up her riches and comfort to be among the ragpickers in the Tokyo slums. Motivated by her newfound faith in Christ, she plunged into the life of the poor, regardless of the consequences. As Satoko helped the poor with their material and spiritual needs, she also helped them to recover their self-respect and dignity. SatokoÕs story demonstrates how one personÕs life can affect so many others. Every day Satoko encountered Christ in some new and challenging way, calling the Church back to identification with the poor. Like Dr. Nagai, she expressed her faith through the sensitivity and beauty of her own Japanese culture. Satoko died a young woman, in dire poverty. Yet her death, mourned by many thousands, reflected her triumphant life of deep Christian faith and charity. This is a powerful story of reconciliation and healing, between people of different social, economic and religious backgrounds, inspired by a frail young woman of luminous faith. Illustrated with photos.Ê
Set against the backdrop of Nagasaki's devastation after the atomic bombing, the story follows Takashi Nagai, a dedicated x-ray researcher and Catholic convert. As a survivor grappling with leukemia from radiation exposure, he dedicates his life to providing both physical and spiritual healing to those affected by the tragedy. His journey reflects resilience and hope amidst immense suffering, highlighting the profound impact one individual can have on a community in despair.
Exploring themes of healing and redemption, this book captivates readers with its profound insights into faith and the human condition. Fr. Paul Glynn's writing resonates deeply, prompting introspection and a renewed connection to spirituality. The narrative is so engaging that it can keep readers awake late into the night, as evidenced by the experiences of those who have immersed themselves in its pages. Bishop David Cremin's foreword highlights the book's ability to touch the hearts of those seeking solace and understanding.