As the pages of history turn, we find ourselves reflecting on a remarkable milestone—the 30th Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, the largest book festival in the United States, held on April 26-27, 2025. Set against the stunning backdrop of the University of Southern California campus, this annual celebration of literature brought together thousands of book lovers, authors, and industry professionals for a weekend brimming with literary magic.
Attracting around 150,000 attendees from Southern California and beyond, the festival was a testament to the enduring appeal of literature and the community it fosters. Each event, each conversation, and each shared moment contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrated the diverse voices and stories that shape our world.
In collaboration with Citi of Books, the author of “STRIVING TO BE PERFECT AS THE HEAVENLY FATHER IS PERFECT: Reflections on Christian Maturity in Decision-Making, Forgiving, and Reconciliation,” Fr. John F. Tuohey, held a successful book signing event during the 2025 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books.
Fr. John F. Tuohey, a retired priest of the Diocese of Springfield in Massachusetts. He was ordained in 1981 after completing his seminary studies at the American College of the Immaculate Conception at the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Louvain, Belgium. Tuohey earned his PhD in religious studies from the same university in 1986. His doctoral dissertation addressed ethical issues in palliative and hospice care. He went on to teach moral theology as an associate professor at The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC until 1996.
After a short stint as a corporate ethicist with the Mercy Health System Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, he went on to Oregon to assume a newly established Andrew and Beverly Honzel Chair in Applied Health Care Ethics at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, Portland, in 1998 where he also founded and was the first director of the Providence Center for Health Care Ethics. He returned to the diocese in 2017 and in 2021 retired as pastor from St. Charles Borromeo parish in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
In his enlightening book, “Striving to Be Perfect as the Heavenly Father is Perfect: Reflections on Christian Maturity in Decision-Making, Forgiving, and Reconciliation,” Fr. John F. Tuohey offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to pursue spiritual maturity. Drawing from biblical references and his own life experiences, Tuohey explores Jesus’ call for perfection, emphasizing that the journey is not about achieving flawlessness but rather about growing in grace. He challenges readers to consider the prudent choices we can make in our daily lives, rather than relying on our default responses to life’s challenges. This thoughtful approach encourages a deeper understanding of how we can embody our faith in practical ways.
Fr. Tuohey’s insights resonate particularly well with the principles of the 12-Step AA Program, as he highlights the importance of grace, confession, penance, and forgiveness in our spiritual journeys. He reminds us that while Christians strive to grow closer to God and study His word, we are all susceptible to human error.
Mistakes are an inherent part of life, and Tuohey reassures us that this is a natural aspect of our spiritual development. His gentle yet honest tone serves as a guiding light, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and the ways they can cultivate a more intentional faith.
This heartfelt book is designed to be read slowly, allowing for introspection and careful consideration of the concepts presented. Tuohey’s integration of personal experiences and AA methodologies inspires readers to think deeply about their own paths toward reconciliation and forgiveness.
Overall, “STRIVING TO BE PERFECT AS THE HEAVENLY FATHER IS PERFECT” is not just a book; it is a meaningful companion for anyone serious about Christian maturity, encouraging us to embrace our imperfections while striving to grow closer to God. It is a powerful read that invites us to reflect on our daily decisions and relationships, ultimately leading us toward a more profound understanding of grace and spiritual growth.