The Man Behind the Miracle

Book excerpt: Miracle after miracle, Alfred Boeddeker saw the equivalent of five loaves and two fishes multiplied many times over through the ministry of the St. Anthony Dining Room in downtown San Francisco. This is the story of a man who brought dignity, meaning, and hope to those hurting people. He faithfully followed his calling in a ministry of over fifty years. This is a story of lives turned around, of rebuilding and the successes of those who returned to family and home, of men and women contributing anew to community and society. Hartmann fills page after page with stories of ministry and miracle detailing the life of Alfred Boeddeker. This story should be read by Catholics, Protestants, and non-sectarians alike. It's a book that should be in school and public libraries. It should be required reading for the politician, the philanthropist, and the pauper. It is a highly motivating example of a man who lived with and fulfilled a high calling and purpose.