CANTON – The Diocese of Youngstown will host author Dawn Eden Goldstein for a special talk: “Journeying Through Lent with Father Ed Dowling S.J.,” 7:30 p.m. March 10 at Canton St. Michael the Archangel Church.
The event will be of interest to anyone wishing to explore the faith dimensions of Alcoholics Anonymous, and broader issues of human dignity, according to a news release from the diocese.
Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill Wilson called Father Dowling “the greatest and most gentle soul to walk this planet.” Although Father Ed was not himself an alcoholic, he opened his heart to alcoholics and other people with problems.
Goldstein is the author of “Father Ed: The Story of Bill W’s Spiritual Sponsor.” She will share the life and message of this remarkable priest, whose joyful identification with Christ led him to develop his spirituality of “Glad Gethsemane,” according to the news release. Books will also be available for purchase.
Goldstein, who has authored other books, began as a rock ’n’ roll historian and went on to editorial positions at the New York Post and the Daily News before publishing her first book. She became the first woman to earn a doctorate in sacred theology from the University of St. Mary of the Lake (Illinois). She lives in Washington, where she is completing her studies for a license in canon law at Catholic University of America.
