The Monk

Who Stole the Bell

By Paul Talmadge Dickson, Jr.

The true story of a 15-year-old boy seeking God as he encounters the struggles of other monks of a Catholic Religious Order, then escapes to find real Bible salvation and true fulfillment to the work of God.

Paul Talmadge Dickson, Jr.unveils his deepest fears as he reveals his confusion and disillusionment of the ecclesiastical system of rigid controls and confinement while he is headed toward a life of poverty, chastity and obedience.  His first literary work, this biographical account lends a touch of humor to each level of advancement through his four years at the monastery and seminary. 

Dickson was appointed to the position of Koppo for his class of Novitiates, experienced the Investiture and took on the name, Brother Vincent after “St. Vincent de Paul.”  Just before having to make the decision to sign the dreaded Contract and take his final vows, Dickson decides to do an about face.

Doomed for hell, he heads for home, finds a job and girlfriend and buys a car, then wonders around in the spiritual wilderness for years.  After marriage and two sons, he finally surrenders his heart to God at a Pentecostal church where he finds the genuine heartfelt experience he was really looking for from the beginning.  His life blossoms after the infilling of the Gift of the Holy Ghost and he acknowledges his call to the ministry.  He becomes a pastoral assistant and spreads joy and happiness among all those within reach of his ministry.

A great read for Catholics who are seeking answers.

Rev. Paul Talmadge Dickson currently resides in Denham Springs, Louisiana where he serves as Pastoral Assistant for the First Pentecostal Church under the direction of Pastor W.R. Johnson. He is also a retired Respiratory Therapist and enjoys genealogical research. Paul has a unique ministry in which he combines humor and biblical principles of salvation.