Book Notes: The Joy of Children

On their wedding day in November 1998, Gerry and Mary Robinson did not think they would have 10 children 9 years old and younger before their 11th anniversary. Yet, that is exactly what happened. In what can only be called a miracle, their family grew in record time, and the fun that came along with it is a story for the ages.

Courtesy of Deacon Gerry Robinson. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

The Joy of Children is a testament to how children bring joy to the family, and how God has a loving part in all of it. The stories are hilarious and the lessons life long. Gerry and Mary both relied on each other through it all, with Mary playing the larger part.

Some of the comments received by leaders in the Catholic community include:

From a Deacon who for years was in charge of deacon formation for a diocese noted, “I have been honored to read this account of your family life and I end with a wish that every husband and wife, every young man and woman who are dating, and every couple who are planning to marry would be blessed to read the love story you have written. This book deserves as wide an audience as possible.”

A Candidate for the Diaconate Noted, "I just finished your story. It read well, was fluid and engaging and hopefully will be made available to all of those couples who may perceive children as other than blessings from God."

Finally, Dr. Theresa Farnan, Mother of Ten and Consultant to the USCCB on Catholic Youth, Marriage, Family, and Laity said, “The Joy of Children is a candid, funny, first person account of a family that lives the meaning of "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done" and never seem to want for their "daily bread. Gerry and Mary Robinson and their beautiful family are living proof that God is never outdone in generosity. In addition to being a wonderful tribute to the joy of children, this book is filled with insights about the joy of marriage. The Robinsons' inspirational story illustrates that family life is not always easy but it can be consistently joyous when families commit themselves to complete, trustful surrender to Divine providence."

This is a great read for all Catholic couples, whether they be dating, engaged, or married. It summarizes the Catholic family in humorous ways while at the same time grounding all in the gift from God that is our children. The unpredictability of family life is a forgotten joy in our society and this book helps us remember it.

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About the Author: Gerry Robinson is a Deacon in the Diocese of Harrisburg. He has 11 children ranging in age from 16 to 2. The Joy of Children is available on Amazon.com in both print and Kindle.