Thoroughly topical and meticulously researched, The Turned Card presents the fullest account yet of the impact of Christianity on the communist world during the years leading to its collapse, and the important role played by Christians in the period of moral and political confusion that has followed.
From extensive travel as a journalist throughout Eastern and Central Europe, Desmond O’Grady is able to present the story in terms of the whole range of nations and churches in the region, and with first had accounts of many of the key Christian heroes of the struggle.
“Essential reading”. Neville Kyrke-Smith, National Direct of Aid to the Church in Need, UK
“The events recounted here must bring joy and inspiration not only to those who profess the same Christian faith but to anyone who is proud of the strength and integrity of which other brothers and sisters of the human family are capable”. Cardinal Edward Cassidy, President, Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity
“An outstanding book on how Christians in Central and Eastern Europe survived under Communism. It also indicates brilliantly various challenges they face in the last decade of our millennium”. Gerald O’Collins SJ
Desmond O’Grady lives and works in Rome, and has been for many years a specialist in Vatican affairs. He currently writes for a number of secular and religious national newspapers in Australia, Great Britain and the United States.