I Never Knew How Much My Father Loved Me...

Book excerpt: From football to theology, from gang warfare to romance, I Never Knew How Much My Father Loved Me has something for everyone. Richard Ganton has created a cast of characters and a series of events that will engage, entertain, and challenge readers to consider their own biases and prejudices. John Jeremiah is a seven-foot-tall gentle giant studying for the ministry at Princeton Theological Seminary. The son of a pro-football player, he has a big reputation to live up to. At the same time, he’s a deep thinker and genuinely caring man, and he quickly becomes the de facto chaplain of his residence, dealing with issues in creative yet effective ways. He carries his own burdens, however, birthed from an accident on the football field that saw his best friend injured and subsequently confined to a wheelchair. John carries this “demon” with him into the ministry, where he also confronts new challenges. Mr. Ganton provides his audience with a look into prejudice in the church when John, a Black man, takes a position with a White congregation in Atlanta as the college and careers pastor. Although he meets with resistance, he thrives, and in time he takes on the gangs of the city with the love of God. Finding love for himself in the process, John allows God to mold him and refine him for His purposes. An inspiring and moving novel that will touch the hearts of readers and affirm to them the overwhelming mercy and love of their creator.