“Telling Our Faith Stories” by Kevin Treston

Kevin Treston is a very experienced adult educator and author. He should be very proud of this book. It demonstrates a great deal of scholarship, breadth of reading and deep personal reflection. It is written in easy-to-understand English and adopts adult education principles by constantly asking questions of the reader about their own experience.

I must admit to a great deal of confirmation bias as he affirmed my opinions. Some of the propositions which appealed to me were:

• our own faith journeys are enriched by learning about and interacting with other religious wisdoms.
  

• the difficulty of remaining faithful to the core teachings of our Christian faith while being open to how this faith might be understood and experienced in global consciousness and modern science
  

• original goodness rather than original sin
  

• compatibility of religion and science

  
  

• revelation emanating from two sources, Bible and nature
  

• synodality requiring an informed and spiritually enhanced laity and an end to deference culture
  

• tribalism in Christianity betraying the universalism of God’s vision

In this book, Kevin examines Catholicism through the lens of his personal faith journey. In doing so, he stands beside other influential, contemporary writers such as Rohr, Chittester, Cannato, Delio, Fox, O’Leary, O’Murchu, Pagola and Sheldrake.

The book can be purchased directly from Kevin - kevintreston@gmail.com

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FAQs: Telling Our Faith Stories by Kevin Treston

What is Telling Our Faith Stories about and why does it matter?

Kevin Treston’s book explores how our personal faith journeys are part of a much larger story of creation and humanity. He argues that by telling our faith stories we become more aware of our place in the “great story of the universe.” It matters because sharing stories builds connection, fosters empathy, and helps people see that their struggles and hopes are not in isolation. (Source: Google Books; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

How does Treston address the tension between tradition and modern science?

Treston acknowledges the difficulty of remaining faithful to core Christian teachings while accepting scientific discoveries about the world and cosmos. He suggests original goodness instead of original sin, and that revelation comes from both scripture and nature. This helps many seekers reconcile faith with science. (Source: St Lucia Spirituality review; Google Books)

What role does “original goodness” play in Treston’s framework?

“Original goodness” is a theme in the book that proposes humanity is not fundamentally flawed or fallen but has inherent goodness from creation. This shifts focus from guilt to gratitude, from fear to flourishing. Psychologists assert that focusing on strength and positive identity can double resilience in coping with life’s challenges. (Source: Positive Psychology research; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

Who might benefit most from reading Telling Our Faith Stories?

This book is especially helpful for people wrestling with faith who want both fidelity to Christian tradition and openness to global consciousness and modern science. Also for those who feel pushed to deference culture in religion, or who seek a more mature, spiritually enhanced laity. It speaks to seekers who want affirmation, challenge, and growth. (Source: St Lucia Spirituality review)

What practical insights can I gain from Treston’s work for my own faith story?

You’ll discover tools for reflection, listening, and storytelling. For example, engaging with different religious wisdoms, reflecting on your own story in both scripture and nature, and practicing communal sharing. Storytelling helps people name where belief aligns and where it stretches. Journaling or small group sharing often leads to deeper insight and stronger spiritual identity. (Source: A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

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At St Lucia Spirituality we believe the journey is richer when it’s shared. If you’re seeking a place to explore questions, practice mindfulness, or simply belong to an inclusive spiritual community, we invite you to join us. From online discussion groups and meditation gatherings to our growing library of resources, there’s space here for every seeker. Step into the conversation, connect with others, and discover how community can nurture your spiritual growth.

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About the Author - John Scoble

John's journey began in the heart of a traditional Roman Catholic family in Sydney, where he was raised with steadfast faith and reverence. Now residing in the serene surroundings of St Lucia, Brisbane, alongside his beloved wife, John finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil rhythms of life. With four adult children and a cherished grandchild also calling Brisbane home, John's family is his anchor, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging.

While spirituality has always been a cornerstone of his life, it was three transformative events in 2012, including a sacred pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, that ignited a profound shift in John's spiritual trajectory. Embracing retirement as an opportunity for deeper exploration, John immersed himself in extensive reading and soulful reflection.

Over the course of a decade, this journey of self-discovery has led John to reevaluate and transcend many of his traditional beliefs, embracing instead the timeless wisdom and cosmic perspective inherent in Christianity. Influenced by luminaries such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Avila, and Richard Rohr, John's spiritual evolution has been marked by a deepening resonance with the essential truths of his faith and a profound connection to the divine unfolding within and around him.