Description

 Via Negativa

During Via Negativa Father Dan, a priest who has been cast out by his conservative diocese due to his eccentricity and insubordination, finds himself on a transformative road. Homeless and seeking solace, he converts his Toyota Camry into a makeshift monk’s cell, intending to spend his time in peaceful contemplation. However, his plans take an unexpected turn when he witnesses a minivan colliding with a coyote. Driven by his Franciscan instincts, Father Dan takes the injured animal under his wing, fashioning a makeshift splint for its broken leg and nourishing it with Spam using a plastic spoon.

Via Negativa

With the wounded coyote as his unlikely companion, Father Dan sets off on a westward journey. Along the way, he encounters a colorful array of fellow travelers and indulges in the occasional roadside curiosity, such as the renowned Martin’s Hole to Hell or the World-Famous Bottomless Pit. Yet, fate has more surprises in store for this priest without a church. In addition to the coyote, he finds himself in possession of a bone-handled pistol, a box of bullets, and a letter from his estranged friend Paul, beckoning him forward.

Father Dan

As Father Dan continues his pilgrimage, he is confronted with the weight of his past mistakes. The journey forces him to confront his inner demons and make a pivotal decision: should he seek revenge or strive for redemption? By the time he reaches his destination, he will have to face the consequences of his actions and determine the true path to atonement.

Drug Addition

Father Dan’s journey takes him through vast landscapes, from desolate deserts to lush forests, each mirroring the tumultuous terrain of his soul. As he travels, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories of pain, loss, and redemption. From a former drug addict turned street artist to a disillusioned nun seeking solace in nature, these encounters challenge Father Dan’s preconceived notions and force him to question his own beliefs.

Memories

Along the way, Father Dan grapples with his guilt and shame, haunted by memories of past transgressions. He reflects on the time he turned a blind eye to the suffering of a young parishioner, and the moment he defied the church’s teachings to stand up for the rights of marginalized communities. These memories weigh heavily on his conscience, and he wonders if he can ever truly find forgiveness.

Redemption

Father Dan and the wounded coyote forge a deep bond. Their journey becomes a metaphor for his healing. Just as he tends to the coyote’s physical wounds, Father Dan begins to mend his emotional scars. Through acts of kindness and compassion, he learns that redemption is not found in seeking revenge. But in extending forgiveness to himself and others.

Transformation

The letter from his estranged friend Paul catalyzes Father Dan’s transformation. In it, Paul reveals the truth behind their falling out. And implores Father Dan to let go of his anger and resentment. With this newfound understanding. Father Dan realizes that his journey is not just about finding solace. But about reconciling with his past and embracing a future filled with love and forgiveness.

Church Confrontation

As Father Dan reaches his destination, a secluded monastery nestled in the mountains, he is faced with a choice. Will he confront the church that cast him out, seeking justice for his mistreatment? Or will he choose a different path, one that focuses on healing and rebuilding his relationship with God?

Via Negativa

In a climactic moment of truth, Father Dan decides to let go of his anger and resentment. Choosing forgiveness over revenge. He confronts the leaders of his former diocese. Not with anger, but with a message of love and understanding. In doing so, he not only finds redemption for himself but also inspires change within the church. Challenging its conservative beliefs and advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate faith.

Father Dan’s transformative journey ultimately leads him to a place of peace and acceptance. Through his experiences and encounters, he learns that true atonement comes from embracing one’s flaws.

Reviews

“A beautiful and meditative exploration of shattered faith.”-Brit Bennett, author of The Mothers and The Vanishing half

“A novel of daring possibilities, shot through with humor and grace.”-Chigozie Obioma, author of The Fishermen and An Orchestra of Minorities