Into the Cloud of Knowing - Renato Antonio - (EBook)

Perth born and educated, Renato Antonio is the son of Sicilian migrants. He was baptised Catholic in infancy but became serious about his faith after a conversion experience at the age of 15. His desire to fathom the mysteries of faith and life has led him into the Cloud of Knowing; that place in which one meets, albeit in veiled form, God in our midst.

Reflecting on personal experiences and those of others whose stories have been the catalyst for deeper insight into life, suffering, death and the supernatural, Renato provides a heartfelt reflection on God’s presence in lives spanning nearly a century, in three continents.

Renato is a father of five children, a high school teacher and tutor, and is currently doing post-graduate study in Theology.

Reviews of Into the Cloud of Knowing

“In 1974 a book by James Wm. McClendon Jr. entitled Biography as theology: How life stories can remake today’s theology helped to reinvigorate the art of doing theology via story telling. In this most recent publication by Renato Antonio this tradition is being kept alive still. Renato’s book gives voice to people whose lives have crossed his and he reflects on the way their stories can and do shape one’s theology. This book illustrates Alasdair MacIntyre’s contention that a ‘man is essentially a storytelling animal…personal identity is just that identity presupposed by the unity of the character which the unity of the narrative requires.’”

- Dr Philip Matthews, School of Philosophy Theology, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle

“We live in a society selling the message that God is dead. Renato Antonio’s book reminds us that this could not be further from the truth! He takes us through both his personal journey as well as events happening in the wider world and demonstrates time after time how all things work out for good for those who love God and who are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). Through worldly eyes we can’t always see the bigger picture – whether it’s our road to conversion or whether it’s a major tragedy such as death. Renato demonstrates that by looking through the eyes of faith, each experience reveals a God who is truly active in our lives and in the lives of others. Life is really a journey towards knowing.”

- Jane Borg, Principal of Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation, Disciples of Jesus Covenant Community, Perth

“Antonio’s Into the Cloud of Knowing is an intriguing collection of anecdotes and testimonies of people’s encounter with the Divine and supernatural. These stories serve as an assuring reminder that God is present and is in our midst. As a non-Catholic you will learn more about Catholic devotions and spirituality and why, for example, Catholics hold a special place in their hearts for the Blessed Virgin Mary. Into the Cloud of Knowing will inspire you and touch your heart.”

- Stephen Spiteri, Teacher, Apologist and Speaker, Perth