In agreement with Socrates, that an unexamined life is not worth living, Year of Trial, Year of Grace: A Catholic’s Search for Faith” by Clayvon C. Harris is one person’s attempt to relate the self examination of her faith in short pieces as those examinations bore fruit for her. Having been “volunteered” to write a weekly article for the bulletin in her church, Clayvon set out to attempt to do just that. What she discovered was that in order to write those weekly articles, it required a great deal of self examination of her faith and, in turn, she grew in her faith. As she expounds her findings in weekly bits, she has in many ways created a devotional guide. Each of the topics are dated on a specific date. Those dates could act as a guide or the reader could simply refer to each item topically. The end result, however, is an opportunity for someone who is of the Catholic faith to grow in their faith and in their understanding of God’s grace.

The short, thoughtful writings of Year of Trial, Year of Grace: A Catholic’s Search for Faith have a profound impact on bringing a Catholic Christian to the fullness of their faith. Clayvon C. Harris has examined her own issues of faith and has revealed them as an aid to others. Her scriptural references ground her discoveries in the Holy Word of God and can help the reader apply those scriptures to their daily living. Thought-provoking, encouraging and honest, Year of Trial, Year of Grace: A Catholic’s Search for Faith will help the reader navigate through the complicated labyrinth of their faith and find grace at the end.

In Year of Trial, Year of Grace: A Catholic's Search for Faith, we join Clayvon C. Harris on her path of discovering God and herself. It's both thoughtful and thought provoking as it explores Clayvon's religious faith, her beliefs, her trials, and her faults. While it was a very personal exploration, the book was also readable and contemplative. Many Christian books put me off because they get to a point where they are just preaching at you. Not this one. Here was an easy to read, truly wonderful look into the questions that are brought before the faithful to answer. This is a wonderful tool to use if you are beginning or continuing on your journey with the Lord, and are searching for a more personal relationship with Him. This was a truly inspirational religious work that clearly came from the heart.

Year of Trial, Year of Grace is a surprisingly warm book that can be looked at both through the lens of religion and the lens of pure humanism. This is a book in which readers of all ages will find comfort and warmth, where denomination doesn't separate out who should be reading it. Whatever you believe, if you are looking to experience a journey towards discovering God's love, His message, and His direction in your life, look no further than Year of Trial, Year of Grace by Clayvon C. Harris. It's an inspiring read for both the steadfast Christian and the struggling layperson. The book is both timely and directly relevant as the headlines about the new pope continue to make newsworthy statements.