“Though lip service is paid to the gospel of grace, many Christians live as if only personal discipline and self-denial will mold the perfect me. The emphasis is on what I do rather than on what God is doing. In this curious process God is a benign old spectator in the bleachers who cheers when I show up for morning quiet time.”

American author, laicized Catholic priest, and public speaker

Brennan Manning was an American author, laicized Catholic priest, and public speaker. He is best known for the bestselling book The Ragamuffin Gospel. His work reached many readers through religious writing and speaking. Manning is especially associated with a message of grace, and The Ragamuffin Gospel remains the title most closely linked with his name.