Today, we’re honored to share a conversation with Father James Martin, a Jesuit priest, a New York Times bestselling author, and the founder of Outreach, a ministry for LGBTQ Catholics.
His new memoir is called Work in Progress: Confessions of a Busboy, Dishwasher, Caddy, Usher, Factory Worker, Bank Teller, Corporate Tool, and Priest. And yes, he held every one of those jobs before he found his calling. But beneath the laughs, this book is really about the slow, unglamorous, often uncomfortable work of transformation.
In our conversation today, Father Jim talks about growing up desperate to be liked—and what it took to become someone willing to speak up and make waves when it matters. We talk about the difference between kindness and people-pleasing, about staying connected to religious institutions that can both nourish and wound us, and why he believes doubt is a natural part of a living, growing faith.
In a moment when so many public voices feel reactive and divisive, Father Jim stands in conviction without losing compassion—offering a steady, grounded wisdom that feels deeply needed right now.
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Raising Little Saints: A Faith Matters Family Night
May 1, 2026 | 6-7:15pm | Kiwanis Park in Provo (the big pavilion)
Nurturing deep faith without fundamentalism.
An evening of music, storytelling, and connection designed for families—both parents and kids.
What to expect:
Live music with Emily Susan Pack
Short, inspiring reflections on faith and family from Whitney Call and Lauren Yarro
Food and community building
Simple activities for kids (movement welcome)
Bring your kids exactly as they are. No perfect behavior or faith required.
Spots are limited, so do please RSVP.
STUDY “COME FOLLOW ME” WITH FAITH MATTERS
What does it mean to be chosen? What does my obedience mean to God?
What does "the Lord’s covenant people are a treasure to Him" mean? How can I better prepare (or help others prepare) for the temple experience? Is there a non-transactional way to relate to obedience and covenants? What is "repentance," really? How might I think about the Sabbath?
What does it mean to be holy? What is the meaning of sacrifice?
What is "holiness"? Where are "holy places"? How might we think about sacrifice? What can we learn from the ancient tabernacle and ancient temple experiences? What are the similarities, and what are the important differences? What is the significance of being washed, clothed, and anointed as priests and priestesses in the temple? What does it mean to be saved by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?
To receive Come Follow Me resource roundups from Faith Matters in your inbox, first be sure you are subscribed to the Faith Matters Substack, then go to manage your subscription and turn on notifications for “Come Follow Me”.
GIVE WAYFARE ISSUE 7 FOR MOTHER’S DAY
Give a gift subscription to Wayfare to someone you love this week! Get a peek inside the newest issue here:
FAITH MATTERS BENEFIT ART AUCTION
When: Saturday, May 9th at 7:00 PM
Where: The Compass Gallery (250 W. Center St., Provo)
Highlights: Live auction of featured works, silent auction bidding, mocktails and hors d'oeuvres, live music.
Faith Matters needs your support for our Benefit Art Auction at The Compass Gallery. It will be an evening of art, connection, and giving, where you’ll have access to one-of-kind art we think you’ll treasure for years to come. Here at Faith Matters, we work to promote a vibrant, nourishing faith and we hope you’ll partner with us.
Can’t make it but still want to support Faith Matters? You can donate directly via DonorBox here:
