LETTERS THAT MATTER - Speaking Out: A Collection of Writings by RAYMOND A. KALAINIKAS with an Introduction by Deborah K. Smarth

by Raymond Kalainikas, Deborah Smarth (Compiler), Eli Blyden (Illustrator)

Overview

This book is a collection of writings over many years by Ray Kalainikas (an ex-seminarian) on subjects in the religious/spiritual sphere as well as international, national, state and local issues. More importantly, the book addresses the concept of "standing alone" for the "Christ-life" in an increasingly corrupt world. It courageously challenges power and the establishment to undertake actions consistent with the Word and Will of God.
The pulse of the book, which reveals activism (through published letters-to-the-editor and op-ed pieces as well as testimony at government meetings), gives credence to the words of a song that state: "It only takes little things to move mountains." It reveals one person's spiritual journey seeking out the Will of God: Attempting to achieve "moral excellence;" sharing knowledge, insights and practical actions that illuminate the path of life; setting the tone for not letting external power, money and the ways of the world to interfere with seeking out the truth and living it.
The writings included in this book illustrate steadfast perseverance and patience in the midst of challenging problems confronting humanity. The book shows how one individual set a mission and purpose in life to help others by sharing knowledge and a religious understanding, and applying it in daily life, using the "Word of God" as a guiding point in all that we do. It shows the intersection of politics and religion and the need to talk about these topics so one can act vigorously to fashion a better world with a moral foundation while elevating The Golden Rule -
"Treat every human being as you would want to be treated",
emanating from the Sermon on the Mount.

www.DovelinePress.com

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780996654142
Publisher:	Deborah Smarth
Publication date:	04/30/2024
Pages:	262
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.55(d)

About the Author

Ray Kalainikas was a Maryknoll college seminarian in the 1960s for several years but left to pursue other missions to expand his knowledge and studies relating to theology and religion. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Due to his strong pacifist beliefs, he decided that if he were called to duty that he would assist in medical support. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Seton Hall University.
Following his Marine Corps service, he taught history in the public school system but subsequently began his own business as he wanted to be truly independent to pursue his real missionary spirit.
As he further progressed in his thinking and religious understanding, he promoted moral positions on diverse matters, holding to the “seamless garment” concept of nonviolence based on the teachings of the Carpenter from Nazareth (Jesus) and so he was opposed to abortion, the death penalty, war, etc. He strongly advocated for nonviolence across the board.
He was an avid reader, prolific writer, intellectual and visionary. He spent a great deal of his time advocating on issues with a moral nexus. He authored many letters-to-the-editor and op-ed pieces concerning local, state, national and international issues. As a small business owner, he enjoyed sharing his ideas with many of his customers.
He often attended local and county government meetings providing input and requesting meaningful action on the part of governing bodies. He also testified at state legislative committee meetings on significant issues to influence public policy outcomes. He advocated for human rights, less taxation, less government spending, halting over development, and greater use of local and state referenda so that citizens could have a greater say on issues affecting them. As a result of his activism and poignant points about complex issues, Ray was frequently quoted in newspaper articles.
He worked diligently at promoting his own initiative concerning “The Golden Rule” from the Sermon on the Mount (“Treat every human being as you would want to be treated.”). He was truly passionate in promoting peace and nonviolence, conversing with family, friends, neighbors, acquaintances, business associates, clergy, and elected officials. He challenged individuals’ curiosity and engaged in robust dialogue on matters of importance with the goal of expanding awareness and promoting equality, compassion, love, nonviolence, and peace.

Wife, Deborah K. Smarth, has written three books.