John Thavis’s second book, The Vatican Prophecies: Investigating Supernatural Signs, Apparitions and Miracles in the Modern Age, explores the relationship between the modern Roman Catholic Church and “supernatural” events such as miracles, signs and apparitions. Just about everyone has an opinion on relics, miracles, private revelations and exorcism. This book hopes to explain the Church’s struggle to balance the tension between traditional beliefs and contemporary skepticism. It contains stories and case studies along with more scholarly information. It also helps explain the attitudes of Pope Francis on these important aspects of life.
This book follows the author’s popular book, The Vatican Diaries: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Power, Personalities and Politics at the Heart of the Catholic Church, which told inside story of the Vatican. It includes a section on Pope Benedict and the reprinted paperback includes a section on Pope Francis.
With Pope Francis’ recent visit to the U.S., these books will help explain what really happens in the Vatican and how it affects us. Thavis stated that, “One reason I wrote this book is that journalists tend to focus exclusively on the Vatican’s power and its institutional impact. I wanted to chronicle the human side of the Vatican — warts and all — that makes it such a fascinating place.” His books will appeal to all readers whether or not they practice Roman Catholicism.
Thavis is particularly qualified to write these books. He lived and worked as a newsperson in Rome for decades culminating in several years as the Bureau Chief of the Catholic News Service Rome office. During many of those years, he specialized in covering the Vatican. Meet John Thavis at Bookmamas, 9 Johnson Ave., on Tues., Oct. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Call 317-375-3715 or visit www.bookmamas.com for more information on this author event and future events.