In Life in Tandem: Keeping Pace with Grace, Edward G. Farrugia, SJ, explores the life of Fr George Preca, portraying him as a showcase of God’s magnificence among those less privileged. The book highlights how Fr Preca managed to transcend ordinary life events becoming a faithful witness of the Good News. Fr. Edward highlights how Fr Preca’s life was grounded in humanity in tandem with God’s grace. The text captures the lively and unpredictable nature of Maltese faith through stories, spiritual paradoxes, and Fr Preca’s creative pastoral ways, turning seemingly conflicting activities into centers of spiritual energy.
The book delves into the paradoxes in Fr Preca’s teachings, highlighting his ability to reconcile apparent opposites. Despite his serious appearance, he created a lively and playful environment in teaching centers, making them places of spiritual vitality. The text also reflects on Fr Preca’s trust in lay individuals and his intense discussions about the ‘Last Things,’ captivating audiences with a deep sense of God’s merciful love.
The author reveals the ‘simple complexity’ and ‘complex simplicity’ of faithfully following Christ and emphasizes the symbolic vision of the Child Jesus seeking help with a cart of dung, turning waste into a source of abundant life.
In the contemporary context, the book suggests that Dun Ġorġ remains an inspirational figure, encouraging readers to confront today’s paradoxes with courage. The subtitle, “Keeping Pace with Grace,” invites individuals to emulate Dun Ġorġ, viewing life as an adventure and approaching it with eagerness for a new spiritual birth.
In today’s world, Fr Preca remains an inspiring figure. He urges us to face today’s contradictions with courage and to perceive life as an adventure so as to approach it with enthusiasm for a spiritual renewal.
