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A powerfully honest memoir, sharing a difficult childhood, illustrating struggles leading to compassion and strength in later life as a priest.
Difficult family circumstances, poverty, conflict, and uncertainty led him as a child to find faith and belonging at his local church.
With lighthearted humour alongside experiences of grief, rejection, and self?doubt, this book reveals how hardship can be an unexpected preparation for ministry.
Rich in character, resilience, and personal growth, this book will appeal to readers of true?life stories, inspirational journeys, and thoughtful reflections on life, family, and vocation.
ISBN : 978-1-80603-168-9
Scheduled: 12/11/2026
Pages : 150
Size : 205x140mm Portrait
Imprint : Olympia Publishers
Yenda Smejkal grew up in North Hertfordshire, worked in a supermarket, and later had periods of unemployment in Cornwall. After an Access Course in his early twenties, he read Theology at Van Mildert College, Durham, trained for Ordination at Mirfield, and was ordained Priest by Bishop Gaisford at All Saints’, South Shields, in 2000. He is currently Vicar of S Mary’s Sundon and P in C of Luton, S Saviour’s. He plays the piano, listens to piano music, and collects church vestments.