Keeping Faith

A Skeptic’s Journey among Christian and Buddhist Monks

Houghton Mifflin / Mariner

“An important book . . . [Johnson has] a strong desire for truth and for purity of heart.”
   — America

In a resonant account of his spiritual quest, Fenton Johnson examines what it means for a skeptic to have and to keep faith. Exploring Western and Eastern contemplative traditions, Johnson lives as a member of the community at the Trappist Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky and at the branches of the San Francisco Zen Center. Ultimately his encounter with Buddhism brings him to a new understanding and embrace of Christianity. Weaving together meditations on Johnson’s spiritual journey with history and insights from contemporary monks, Keeping Faith offers a blueprint for a new way of practicing faith.
 

Praise from Readers and Reviewers

“Readers who are questioning the faith of their childhood . . . may find guidance in this eloquent, clear-headed book.”
   — Cleveland Plain Dealer

“Deftly written . . . Johnson’s urgent inquiry traces religious impulse to its source in the very springs of human desire — where he finds much longing, much trouble, and enduring beauty.”
   — Patricia Hampl, author of A Romantic Education

“An invaluable guide to a new kind of faith . . . drawn with precision and feeling.”
   — James Carroll, author of Constantine’s Sword