History book earning kudos

"Canals & Crossroads," the first-ever in-depth history of the Albany Diocese, is selling well -- and earning high praise from readers.

Perhaps the highest of praise was delivered on Sept. 14 during the Sesquicentennial Mass at Auriesville when both the Vatican ambassador to the U.S. and Cardinal John O'Connor complimented the volume.

In his remarks at the liturgy, Archbishop Agostino Cacciavillan, papal nuncio, called the history "a very fine book" that explained the background of the Diocese, including the contributions of the North American martyrs and Kateri Tekakwitha, who are honored at the Auriesville Shrine.

The Cardinal, who used the book as the basis for his homily, referred to the history as "a magnificent book" and "a beautiful work" in which "you read what Bishop John McCloskey hoped and prayed for in the Diocese of Albany."

Bishop McCloskey, the first bishop of the Diocese, later became one of Cardinal O'Connor's predecessors as archbishop of New York City. He would also become the first cardinal in the U.S.

Other readers have been just as enthusiastic about the book. "Terrific," "an outstanding work" and "impressive" are some of the words used by those who have read "Canals & Crossroads." One priest remarked: "I never expected anything this significant."

The 280-page hardback volume with more than 180 illustrations has already sold nearly 2,000 copies. Brisk sales followed the Cardinal's remarks at the Sesquicentennial Mass, and people have been ordering copies through The Evangelist.

Proceeds from the sale of the book go toward funding Sesquicentennial observances, such as the Auriesville celebration.

("Canals & Crossroads" can be ordered from The Evangelist for $25 plus $2 shipping/handling.)

(10-09-97)