Bishop of Killaloe, Fintan Monahan, is one of over twenty sports-loving people interviewed for a new book entitled Faith – In Search of Greater Glory in Sport, published by Gerard Gallagher. Bishop Fintan has a life-long interest in sports and is currently preparing for the upcoming Dublin city marathon on 30 October next.
Regarding immersing his personal faith into his love of sport, Bishop Fintan said, ‘You never lose the thrill of taking part. Even now, although older, the thrill is still huge for me … Sometimes, during a run I might pray. Hail Marys can keep me going.’
At the book launch Gerard Gallagher, who works with the Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland, said, “the publication of Faith – In Search of Greater Glory in Sport has involved over twenty of Ireland’s great sports stars providing biographical accounts of the role that personal faith has had in their sporting life. Mould-breakers such as Katie Taylor, Josh Van der Flier, Sean Kelly, Johnny Murtagh and Ciaran Carey have reflected on faith in themselves, faith in their teammates, backroom team, and faith in a greater power that helps them reach their potential on the biggest stages of their sporting careers. This is a ‘must read’ book for anyone interested in sport, faith and personal growth.”
Gerard Gallagher continued, “In his final interview before his sudden passing, Dublin football legend Brian Mullins spoke about his life and beliefs. Brian spoke with honesty and great courage, and his contribution to Faith: In Search of Greater Glory in Sport should act as an encouragement to everyone – not only those who want to succeed – but, more importantly, to all who wish to compete without fear. In Brian’s own words, ‘I lean towards God who makes sense and purpose to what my world should be. Maybe it is not worked out like other people’s understanding. God wants us to be good and create goodness. For me, that is trying to be the best you can be.’
Faith: In Search of Greater Glory in Sport is published by Hero Books and available now in bookshops, including Veritas and online.
