Local Author Publishes The 13th Apostle (Evergreen Press)

The Missing Link in Youth Christian Literature Long realizing a void in Christian reading material for middle-school aged kids, retired educator Paul Murphy, authored The 13th Apostle a stunning fictional portrait of life during Jesus’ times. Set amidst the political turmoil of 33 A.D. in the city of Jerusalem, The 13th Apostle portrays the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus through the eyes of an orphaned street beggar named Gamaliel. The nationwide release of the book, which is endorsed by the Auxiliary Bishop Robert W. Donnelly of the Catholic Diocese of Toledo, from Evergreen Press will occur on March 1, 2004. A mixture of fiction and biblical fact, The 13th Apostle adheres strictly to the story of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection as depicted in the first five books of the New Testament. It is a tale of excitement, adventure and miracles that is entertaining, educational and inspirational. "What a wonderful read! The gospel story of Jesus truly came alive in the very human characters of Gamaleil, Sarah, Marius, Gratius and all of the other characters," said Father Jeff Sikorski, pastor of St. Joseph Church in Maumee. "It is a work I highly recommend, especially to teenagers and to adults as well. We can all be inspired in Christian faith by this renewing and refreshing touch given to the last days of Jesus." Just in time, when the youth of America are asking, "What does the Gospel have to do with me?" Paul Murphy’s, The Thirteenth Apostle, brings the Scriptures alive in the compelling story of Gamaliel’s personal encounters with Jesus Christ and the first apostles. The joy of discovering the urgency and relevancy of Christ’s death and Easter victory captures every generation differently. For us today, Paul Murphy captures the reader’s imagination and draws us into the breathless race of the first disciples to catch up with the drama that is unfolding before us until we are catapulted into our own commissioning as apostles. "What a perfect gift to give a young reader who wonders what difference it makes to be a Christian today," exclaims Dr. Philip Jones, Senior Pastor. First Presbyterian Church. Being a teenager and having a lot of my life yet to live, I have often wondered where God might lead me," said Juliann Nemeth, a junior at Maumee High School. "The touching story of Gamaliel and his life changing experiences with Jesus perfectly demonstrates the strong and true love that God has for each and every individual." The author has scheduled appearances and book signings across the country. (This release is available to general media, publications and webmasters)

BACK