‘The glory of God is a person fully alive.’

The affirmation by St Irenaeus of Lyon has inspired Paul Mitchell in his life as parent, writer, poet, educator and learner.

In this series of essays and articles, written over many years and for a variety of journals, Paul Mitchell reflects on the joys and challenges of being a parent and teacher; he shares tender experiences of what worked, what did not and the struggle to recognise that parenting skills must adapt as children grow and develop their own personalities.

Here is a master storyteller at work, someone whose faith informs his natural gifts. His deep understanding that resurrection is about our everyday lives is reflected in the stories of ordinary events, the surprises we meet along the way, and the people who enhance our love for life, our children, our partners and ourselves.

‘There has been a renewed focus on fatherhood and masculinity in this country, and Paul’s work feels particularly current and necessary, revealing how those concerns intersect with matters of faith.’ – David Halliday, editor of Eureka Street and former editor of The Melbourne Catholic.

‘It’s calming and heartening to watch a father quietly sift his daily life for what is sacred. Helen Garner

‘… a treasure chest of wisdom and experience.’ – Michael McGirr, author and Head of Mission Integration at Caritas Australia.

‘Insightful and inspiring…’ – Kerrie O’Brien, Senior Writer (Culture), The Age.

‘… he reminds us that the life we have is sacred. All of it.’ – Simon Carey Holt, author and Pastor at Collins Street Baptist Church, Melbourne.

If you would like to hear Paul Mitchell interviewed by Rise and Shine with Robbo & Becci on 30 August 2021, click here