A Monk, a Pilgrim, and the Purpose of Life

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For a limited time, when you buy 5 copies of Brother John, you’ll receive an additional signed Collector’s Edition—perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity!

Brother John, A Monk, A Pilgrim, and The Purpose of Life" is August Turak’s captivating tale of a life-changing encounter on Christmas Eve with Brother John, a Trappist monk whose simple act of service sparked a profound personal transformation.

This powerful and inspirational story centers on Turak’s search for meaning, and how his unexpected meeting with the umbrella-wielding monk reveals the essence of selflessness, redemption, and purpose.

Through Brother John’s towering example of quiet service, we are reminded of the beauty that lies within others and ourselves.

Set against the serene backdrop of Mepkin Abbey, this Christmas parable offers timeless lessons on finding deeper meaning in life. The story is beautifully complemented by twenty-two original oil paintings by award-winning artist Glenn Harrington, bringing the rich spiritual atmosphere of the monastery to life.

“Brother John is just beautiful ... what a treasure!”

— Mark Harrington, Newsday Journalist & Reporter

BROTHER JOHN REVIEWS

“Meaning. Purpose. Engagement. Those are our modern buzz words. Yet most focus on the purpose of doing, and not the purpose of being who we really are. Turak’s beautiful Brother John gently points us inward and upward toward our ultimate purpose.”

— David W. Miller, PhD, Director, Princeton University Faith & Work Initiative
“Brother John tells a simple story of a life profoundly lived. The depth of this life becomes visible and transformative in a simple act of hospitality and kindness: an act that raises the question of the kind of life we really want to live. The story is made all the richer by Glenn Harrington’s evocative illustrations. Brother John is deeply rewarding food for contemplation.”

William Cahoy, PhD, Dean Emeritus, Saint John’s University School of Theology and Seminary
“A beautiful, and beautifully illustrated, parable for our time—for any time.”

— James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage and Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity
"A gorgeous Christmas present or special occasion book, Brother John is unique and joyful in its message."

Zippy Sandler, Champagne Living