What do you think?
Rate this book
A Man Called Peter: The Story of Peter Marshall
Filled with humor, wisdom and loving detail, the powerful story of Peter Marshall's life has touched the hearts and minds of millions of people. It is a book about love - the love between a dynamic man and his God, and the tender love between a man and the woman he married. It is also the gripping adventure of a poor Scottish immigrant who became chaplain of the United States Senate and one of the most revered men in America.
A Man Called Peter became the number-one best-seller when it was published in 1951, and around the world lives were changed by reading of the chaplain's remarkable faith. In the foreword to this book, Peter's son writes, "Even when [Dad's] words were preached 'secondhand'. . . in the movie version of A Man Called Peter, they had an amazing effect on people."
Through Peter's story and the compelling sermons and prayers included in A Man Called Peter, you will discover insight into God, man, and life on earth and hereafter. You will also be encouraged by the realization that "if God can do so much for a man called Peter, he can do as much for you.".
A Man Called Peter became the number-one best-seller when it was published in 1951, and around the world lives were changed by reading of the chaplain's remarkable faith. In the foreword to this book, Peter's son writes, "Even when [Dad's] words were preached 'secondhand'. . . in the movie version of A Man Called Peter, they had an amazing effect on people."
Through Peter's story and the compelling sermons and prayers included in A Man Called Peter, you will discover insight into God, man, and life on earth and hereafter. You will also be encouraged by the realization that "if God can do so much for a man called Peter, he can do as much for you.".
342 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 1951
132 people are currently reading
3988 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Marshall
195 books1,014 followersMarshall was born in Johnson City, Tennessee. She was the daughter of the Reverend John Ambrose Wood and Leonora Whitaker Wood. From the age of nine until her graduation from high school, Marshall was raised in Keyser, West Virginia, where her father served as pastor of a Presbyterian church from 1924 to 1942.
While a junior at Agnes Scott College, she met Peter Marshall, marrying him in 1936. The couple moved to Washington, DC, where her husband served as pastor of the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church and Chaplain of the United States Senate.
In 1940, Marshall contracted tuberculosis, for which at that time there was no antibiotic treatment. She spent nearly three years recovering from the illness. Her husband died in 1949 of a heart attack, leaving her to care for their 9-year-old son, Peter John Marshall. He later also became a minister and author.
Marshall wrote a biography of her husband, A Man Called Peter, published in 1951. It became a nationwide success and was adapted as a film of the same name, released in 1955. Her success encouraged her to keep writing.
Marshall wrote or edited more than 30 books, which have sold over 16 million copies.[citation needed] They include edited collections of Peter Marshall's sermons and prayers, and her own inspirational writings. Her most successful books were A Man Called Peter (1951); and her novel, Christy (1967), which was inspired by the story of her mother's time in the mountains teaching the impoverished children of Appalachia. Christy was adapted as a CBS television series, starring Kellie Martin, beginning in 1994.
In 1959, Marshall married Leonard LeSourd, who was the editor of Guideposts Magazine for 28 years. Together they founded a book imprint, Chosen Books. They had three children, Linda, Chester and Jeffery.
Marshall died on March 18, 1983 at the age of 68. She was buried alongside her first husband.
While a junior at Agnes Scott College, she met Peter Marshall, marrying him in 1936. The couple moved to Washington, DC, where her husband served as pastor of the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church and Chaplain of the United States Senate.
In 1940, Marshall contracted tuberculosis, for which at that time there was no antibiotic treatment. She spent nearly three years recovering from the illness. Her husband died in 1949 of a heart attack, leaving her to care for their 9-year-old son, Peter John Marshall. He later also became a minister and author.
Marshall wrote a biography of her husband, A Man Called Peter, published in 1951. It became a nationwide success and was adapted as a film of the same name, released in 1955. Her success encouraged her to keep writing.
Marshall wrote or edited more than 30 books, which have sold over 16 million copies.[citation needed] They include edited collections of Peter Marshall's sermons and prayers, and her own inspirational writings. Her most successful books were A Man Called Peter (1951); and her novel, Christy (1967), which was inspired by the story of her mother's time in the mountains teaching the impoverished children of Appalachia. Christy was adapted as a CBS television series, starring Kellie Martin, beginning in 1994.
In 1959, Marshall married Leonard LeSourd, who was the editor of Guideposts Magazine for 28 years. Together they founded a book imprint, Chosen Books. They had three children, Linda, Chester and Jeffery.
Marshall died on March 18, 1983 at the age of 68. She was buried alongside her first husband.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
May 20, 2017
This book, ya'll. So where's the 5 billion star button again?
I don't think I have ever been so impacted by a single mortal man. I don't know in what way yet, but this book, and this man changed me.
From a reading perspective, it was very well written, and very accurate, as it is written by Peter Marshall's wife. It was almost autobiographical, which I liked. All the stories were so amazing and inspiring, and many of them I was either wiping tears, or clutching my side laughing.
I loved this book! I would highly recommend it to all people! It blessed and encouraged me in a way I cannot explain, as it and the life of Peter Marshall have done to many people. A must read!
I don't think I have ever been so impacted by a single mortal man. I don't know in what way yet, but this book, and this man changed me.
From a reading perspective, it was very well written, and very accurate, as it is written by Peter Marshall's wife. It was almost autobiographical, which I liked. All the stories were so amazing and inspiring, and many of them I was either wiping tears, or clutching my side laughing.
I loved this book! I would highly recommend it to all people! It blessed and encouraged me in a way I cannot explain, as it and the life of Peter Marshall have done to many people. A must read!
August 2, 2018
It's an interesting biography for this man who certainly left strong impressions of love, acceptance and harmony of a peaceful aspect toward difficulty for all who met him in their memories of Peter Marshall. All of those just listed qualities clearly remembered. But not without the domination above all else of his level of Faith. And faith lived and not only expressed. It's inspiring to read of his life's enthusiasm and belief of salvation's positivity. His life was short and Catherine's telling of it may be almost "too close" to grasp how far he came and on such a myriad path to the work he did, IMHO.
Some of the sermon material gets minimized, IMHO, without his voice speaking it, instead of reading it. The audible would be a better format for this, perhaps. More emotive and also melodic for the cadence!
I really appreciated the prayers at the ending portion. They are exactly the prayers that are needed for modern times. And for America.
Some of the sermon material gets minimized, IMHO, without his voice speaking it, instead of reading it. The audible would be a better format for this, perhaps. More emotive and also melodic for the cadence!
I really appreciated the prayers at the ending portion. They are exactly the prayers that are needed for modern times. And for America.
January 5, 2021
4.5 stars. A very well-written biography. (You can't expect less from Catherine Marshall!) It's amazing how inspiring and encouraging Peter Marshall's life is even now, more than seventy years later. He enjoyed life immensely, and that enjoyment was enriched by his eternal, God-focused perspective, which was seldom dimmed by the cares of this world. The sermons included at the end of this edition are still relevant. I especially liked "Sin in the Present Tense," about worry and anxiety.
October 5, 2009
I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Peter Marshall's life, beginning with his humble beginnings in Scotland where he first yearned to serve God. The story of how this impoverished young man was led to the United States, how he became a Presbyterian minister, and how he ultimately became Chaplain of the Senate is filled with illustrations of ways a loving Heavenly Father frequently answers prayers through the actions of those He puts around us--and how we need to listen for the opportunities to meet others' spoken and unspoken needs.
The book is filled with amusing anecdotes, humbling shortfalls, and joyful triumphs. Written by his wife, Catherine Marshall (author of Christy), it is engaging and entertaining. Included in the text are excerpts from many of Peter's sermons that share his marvelous use of the English language and his philosophy of personalizing Christianity into a practical, practicable way of life.
I don't usually enjoy biographies, but I recommend this one!
The book is filled with amusing anecdotes, humbling shortfalls, and joyful triumphs. Written by his wife, Catherine Marshall (author of Christy), it is engaging and entertaining. Included in the text are excerpts from many of Peter's sermons that share his marvelous use of the English language and his philosophy of personalizing Christianity into a practical, practicable way of life.
I don't usually enjoy biographies, but I recommend this one!
November 30, 2021
To have the faith that your life is following a plan God has for you is a strong faith. Reading Catherine Marshall’s biography of her husband Dr. Peter Marshall depicts a life lived with this belief.
This biography is no hagiography though. She describes Dr. Marshall’s weakness and failings as well. His remarkable journey from being a poor boy living in Scotland through his rise to being chosen as Senate Chaplain, a sought after preacher, and his calling to being the pastor of the New York Avenue Church In Washington D. C. Is a terrific story. New York Avenue is known as the Church of the Presidents because this church has been the spiritual home for many during their terms in the White House.
Death at the age of 46, the height of his powers, stunned the nation’s capitol. A popular preacher, Sundays found people standing in line to hear him. I don’t believe that today people stand in line to hear a sermon.
If you have seen the 1955 film A Man Called Peter, the movie version of this biography and enjoyed it, you will find that this biography enriches that experience.
This biography is no hagiography though. She describes Dr. Marshall’s weakness and failings as well. His remarkable journey from being a poor boy living in Scotland through his rise to being chosen as Senate Chaplain, a sought after preacher, and his calling to being the pastor of the New York Avenue Church In Washington D. C. Is a terrific story. New York Avenue is known as the Church of the Presidents because this church has been the spiritual home for many during their terms in the White House.
Death at the age of 46, the height of his powers, stunned the nation’s capitol. A popular preacher, Sundays found people standing in line to hear him. I don’t believe that today people stand in line to hear a sermon.
If you have seen the 1955 film A Man Called Peter, the movie version of this biography and enjoyed it, you will find that this biography enriches that experience.
November 18, 2018
"God is a God of laughter, as well as prayer... a God of singing, as well as tears.
God is at home in the play of His children .
He loves to hear us laugh.
We do not honor God by our long faces... our austerity.
God wants us to be good, not "goody - goody".
There is quite a distinction.
We must try to make the distinction between worship
and work
and play less sharp...
If God is not in your typewriter as well as your hymnbook,
there is something wrong with your religion.
If your God does not enter your kitchen
there is something the matter with your kitchen.
If you can't take God into your recreation
there is something wrong with the way you play.
If God, for you, does not smile,
there is something wrong with your idea of God.
We all believe in the God of the heroic.
What we need most these days is the God
of the humdrum...
of the commonplace...
the everyday."
God is at home in the play of His children .
He loves to hear us laugh.
We do not honor God by our long faces... our austerity.
God wants us to be good, not "goody - goody".
There is quite a distinction.
We must try to make the distinction between worship
and work
and play less sharp...
If God is not in your typewriter as well as your hymnbook,
there is something wrong with your religion.
If your God does not enter your kitchen
there is something the matter with your kitchen.
If you can't take God into your recreation
there is something wrong with the way you play.
If God, for you, does not smile,
there is something wrong with your idea of God.
We all believe in the God of the heroic.
What we need most these days is the God
of the humdrum...
of the commonplace...
the everyday."
February 24, 2013
Someone gave me this book to read, and I enjoyed it for two reasons. First, Catherine Marshall provides a glimpse into an age now long gone--the age when church was part of the institutional fabric of our culture, and how "great preachers" such as Marshall were celebrated and sought out. Second, the selection of Marshall's sermons at the end of the book are a great read. They were haunting at times--often covering insights that are just as relevant now as when they were preached over 60 years ago.
May 23, 2009
It is a lovely story about Peter Marshall who became the Senate Chaplin in the 40's. Unfortunately, only about 10 pages focuses on that detail of his life, the rest is devoted to how he got there and what an amazing person he was. It was a little too devoted to how amazing he was, I would have enjoyed a more realistic look at the man and seen his faults and how, despite them he became successful. However, if you want a sweet love story this is one.
December 7, 2019
Literally one of the best books I’ve ever read. I knew it would be, considering my love of the movie by the same title and other nonfiction by Catherine Marshall that I’ve read.
Though I can’t say for certain “what every Christian should do”, I want to say “EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD READ THIS BOOK” because there is so much spiritual nourishment inside its pages, along with the story of an incredible man of God.
11/10 would recommend
Though I can’t say for certain “what every Christian should do”, I want to say “EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD READ THIS BOOK” because there is so much spiritual nourishment inside its pages, along with the story of an incredible man of God.
11/10 would recommend
September 1, 2023
If you've never known about this Scottish immigrant preacher who preached in Abraham Lincoln's church and was chaplain to the Senate in Washington, D.C., it may be because he lived a fiercely powerful, passionately Christlike and practically sleepless life and died very young. Peter Marshall is the novelist, Catherine Marshall's, first husband. I've always wanted to read his bio, and I'm so blessed to have finally done so ✔️ ✅️ ✝️
May 19, 2014
A fascinating look into the life of Peter Marshall from his wife Catherine's perspective. I was so encouraged and uplifted by the life of this amazing, sold-out-to-God man. A must-read for pastors, ministry workers, and especially pastor's wives.
June 8, 2020
A timeless message of trust in and surrender to God. It was worth the read.
Also interesting, but not central, reading from a Catholic perspective, I couldn't help but notice the longing that these devout Presbyterians have for the Sacraments that their tradition has abandoned. First, Catherine herself longs for the Anointing of the Sick for Peter during his first hospitalization:
"During that next half hour I found myself longing to fulfill literally the directions given us by the Apostle James: 'Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord...' I had never seen such an anointing done. It seemed an almost fantastic thought. Yet I knew that it had been a much-used ritual of the church in apostolic times--however neglected in our day.... But originally, anointing with oil was always a symbol of the living power of the Holy Spirit" (p 222)
Later a Senator who hears Dr Marshall's prayers as chaplain of the US Senate approaches him saying "Parson, I guess you know God pretty well. You know Catholics believe in having a father confessor. Will you be mine?" (p 231)
Also interesting, but not central, reading from a Catholic perspective, I couldn't help but notice the longing that these devout Presbyterians have for the Sacraments that their tradition has abandoned. First, Catherine herself longs for the Anointing of the Sick for Peter during his first hospitalization:
"During that next half hour I found myself longing to fulfill literally the directions given us by the Apostle James: 'Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord...' I had never seen such an anointing done. It seemed an almost fantastic thought. Yet I knew that it had been a much-used ritual of the church in apostolic times--however neglected in our day.... But originally, anointing with oil was always a symbol of the living power of the Holy Spirit" (p 222)
Later a Senator who hears Dr Marshall's prayers as chaplain of the US Senate approaches him saying "Parson, I guess you know God pretty well. You know Catholics believe in having a father confessor. Will you be mine?" (p 231)
December 11, 2015
One of the most enjoyable biographies I have read.
Dr. Peter Marshall was an Irish Immigrant come to the United States under orders from the "Chief", God, to be a minister of the Word. In ten years God took him from a low-income student bachelor to the Chaplain of the U.S. Senate.
His wife, Catherine, writes this eloquent, endearing expose of a man viewed as a national religious leader but personally a human struggling to do God's will. As his wife and many others concluded Peter was a man of God who brought life and passion to many in a depressing time through the Bible and the Holy Spirit. He made Christ alive to many during his years in ministry.
This is indeed one of the best biographies I have ever read. I recommend this book for any library.
Dr. Peter Marshall was an Irish Immigrant come to the United States under orders from the "Chief", God, to be a minister of the Word. In ten years God took him from a low-income student bachelor to the Chaplain of the U.S. Senate.
His wife, Catherine, writes this eloquent, endearing expose of a man viewed as a national religious leader but personally a human struggling to do God's will. As his wife and many others concluded Peter was a man of God who brought life and passion to many in a depressing time through the Bible and the Holy Spirit. He made Christ alive to many during his years in ministry.
This is indeed one of the best biographies I have ever read. I recommend this book for any library.
November 4, 2011
Just about everyone who loves good Christian fiction knows about the Christy series that was on television several years ago. You can now buy the whole set on DVD from Christianbook.com among other places. But before the series there was the book. (See my other recommendations on the old classics tab). And before the book, Catherine Marshall met a man called Peter.
This book is a classic that is a must read for everyone who loves a good story. I highly recommend it for every home library. I am fortunate enough to own two hard back copies that are from the original printing. A paperback version is still available on Christianbook.com. To learn more, I suggest you check out Peter Marshall Ministries at: http://petermarshallministries.com/
This book is a classic that is a must read for everyone who loves a good story. I highly recommend it for every home library. I am fortunate enough to own two hard back copies that are from the original printing. A paperback version is still available on Christianbook.com. To learn more, I suggest you check out Peter Marshall Ministries at: http://petermarshallministries.com/
July 1, 2012
This is the last Catherine Marshall book I've read; again, I was not disappointed. Unlike Christy and Julie, A Man Called Peter is not a novel but a biography of her husband's life.
It is a wonderfully inspiring tale of a man called by God. A Man Called Peter is the story of a preacher, Peter Marshall, whose congregations outgrew their churches time and again; who eventually rises to the position of Chaplain of the United States Senate.
It is a love story, a deep, tender, love story, underscored by tragedy. We have learned much from this Scottish immigrant and his love and service to God.
It is a wonderfully inspiring tale of a man called by God. A Man Called Peter is the story of a preacher, Peter Marshall, whose congregations outgrew their churches time and again; who eventually rises to the position of Chaplain of the United States Senate.
It is a love story, a deep, tender, love story, underscored by tragedy. We have learned much from this Scottish immigrant and his love and service to God.
July 10, 2025
I need to own this. I have probably intended to read this for a couple of decades and finally borrowed a copy from my library. The majority of the book is a biography written by Peter Marshall's wife. The final hundred pages or so are sermons by Marshall himself. I almost skipped those because I was in it for the biography. The sermons were really meaningful to me and I want to re-read them. I'm so happy to be back in my Christian biography reading era. These kinds of books really shaped me when I was a young adult. It's so helpful in this stage of life to continue the conversation with older Believers and see how their faith showed them how to live. Some things don't change much. Marshall talked about Russia and the concerns of uranium and our government... How shall we now live? It's not really that different. Although I would have liked to know what Peter Marshall would have said about living with AI.
December 21, 2023
The story of Peter Marshall is not exactly an unconventional one, yet it's a story that is relatable despite being dated and quite moving. The picture that Catherine Marshall paints of her husband is certainly not a perfect one (Many of the critiques of the book I found to be perfectly valid as Peter Marshall is definitely a "product of his time when it comes to specific ideologies and theologies).
That bring said, I really liked this biography; Peter Marshall has been a person I have looked up to for some time (thanks to the movie by the same name-check it out if you haven't seen it). I found his life relatable and the writing style, delightful and engaging if not a bit over-detailed. It's encouraging to Christians in all walks of life and transcends the pages.
That bring said, I really liked this biography; Peter Marshall has been a person I have looked up to for some time (thanks to the movie by the same name-check it out if you haven't seen it). I found his life relatable and the writing style, delightful and engaging if not a bit over-detailed. It's encouraging to Christians in all walks of life and transcends the pages.
November 2, 2016
What an AMAZING and INSPIRING book this is!
I was drawn to reading it after watching the film, and was not let down. It's impossible to say if I liked the film or book better (and that's a major compliment to the movie, as the book is ALWAYS better than the film version!).
Some people may also recognize the author Catherine Marshall as the writer of Christy (which is a great novel). But in this book, A Man Called Peter, Catherine tells the story of how her husband Peter reached the pinnacle of his career as a minister. The highlights of his life are found in the small stories which lead to how Peter Marshall became a household name in the 1930-40s.
Being a pastor (or pastor's wife), as you can imagine, can lead one to become involved with people and the community. In turn, it leads one to become involved in a lot of "interesting" situations that one might not have considered doing before. Catherine divulges some funny stories, a few secrets, and the demands of the Marshalls and their life led by Christ.
When Scottish-born Peter Marshall desperately wanted to follow his calling to "the Chief" (one of his names reserved for the Lord), a friend led him to try ministering in America. There's a lot of (really good) stuff that happened before and during this move, but after coming to the U.S. in 1927, he eventually finds his place in life. And yes, it is in ministering about the grace of God.
It seems that what set Peter apart from other ministers of his time is how he wrote his sermons. He talked to the community in a common way. He didn't talk in technical theological terms; he didn't speak over the knowledge of the common people. And what happened? Thousands flocked to him; they couldn't get enough.
"Whereas most people write a sermon to develop an idea, Peter wrote his sermons to paint a picture and to arouse our emotions."
He believed in "a God that knows folks' names."
What I liked? Catherine simply adores her husband, and although she sometimes found his habits a bit comical (and they were), she lovingly supported all he chose to do. Frequently she talks about how he is a Scotsman, through-and-through. He had a few peculiarities, but that probably only aided in his likability. As every chapter went by, I couldn't wait to learn something new about this down-to-earth pastor. Always, it seems, he kept his humbleness about him, even as he reached for the very heights.
Frankly, I'd say it's a charming biography.
I'm going to have to read this one again one day.
I was drawn to reading it after watching the film, and was not let down. It's impossible to say if I liked the film or book better (and that's a major compliment to the movie, as the book is ALWAYS better than the film version!).
Some people may also recognize the author Catherine Marshall as the writer of Christy (which is a great novel). But in this book, A Man Called Peter, Catherine tells the story of how her husband Peter reached the pinnacle of his career as a minister. The highlights of his life are found in the small stories which lead to how Peter Marshall became a household name in the 1930-40s.
Being a pastor (or pastor's wife), as you can imagine, can lead one to become involved with people and the community. In turn, it leads one to become involved in a lot of "interesting" situations that one might not have considered doing before. Catherine divulges some funny stories, a few secrets, and the demands of the Marshalls and their life led by Christ.
When Scottish-born Peter Marshall desperately wanted to follow his calling to "the Chief" (one of his names reserved for the Lord), a friend led him to try ministering in America. There's a lot of (really good) stuff that happened before and during this move, but after coming to the U.S. in 1927, he eventually finds his place in life. And yes, it is in ministering about the grace of God.
It seems that what set Peter apart from other ministers of his time is how he wrote his sermons. He talked to the community in a common way. He didn't talk in technical theological terms; he didn't speak over the knowledge of the common people. And what happened? Thousands flocked to him; they couldn't get enough.
"Whereas most people write a sermon to develop an idea, Peter wrote his sermons to paint a picture and to arouse our emotions."
He believed in "a God that knows folks' names."
What I liked? Catherine simply adores her husband, and although she sometimes found his habits a bit comical (and they were), she lovingly supported all he chose to do. Frequently she talks about how he is a Scotsman, through-and-through. He had a few peculiarities, but that probably only aided in his likability. As every chapter went by, I couldn't wait to learn something new about this down-to-earth pastor. Always, it seems, he kept his humbleness about him, even as he reached for the very heights.
Frankly, I'd say it's a charming biography.
I'm going to have to read this one again one day.
May 9, 2018
The first time I tried this book, I didn't get very far, despite really enjoying Marshall's CHRISTY and JULIE when I was a teenager. But then I wanted to give it another go after working on a book of another pastor's sermons and seeing Peter Marshall referenced. I'm glad I did.
The book reads at time like a wife's scrapbook of all the press clippings and wonderful things said about her husband, and I teased my own husband, saying, when he was dead, I was going to write a book about him THREE TIMES as glowing. That part didn't age particularly well because--well--no one remembers the names of any of the people she drops, even if they'd still heard of her husband. Senator Who? Secretary of State What? All gone and forgotten. As are the days when newspapers used to write about pastors or quote their sermons, unless the guy has just molested somebody. And I squirmed every time Catherine Marshall mentioned "the Negro janitor" or the help. Yikes. Fortunately she includes sample sermons by Peter at the end, and he has a wonderful passage about the equality of all in the sight of God, no matter their color, and a reference to how difficult things were for African-Americans (and he gave this sermon in the '40s!). Nor will Peter Marshall's attitudes toward women working go over well nowadays, though it surprised me that women choosing career over home and family was an issue worth preaching about even then.
But what is entirely worthwhile is reading about how Peter Marshall's unorthodox (for then) preaching style impacted his listeners. He told stories and used contemporary culture to comment on timeless truths. He tried to get to people's emotions (heart), rather than just their heads. After reading about him, I could see his influence on other pastors I have known and heard. His legacy continues.
It was funny to read about his church having to add "a second, identical service" to handle the crowds. Catherine Marshall mentions it kinda defensively, but now it's so common no one blinks.
Anyhow. A worthwhile read, even if it's definitely a church-themed period piece.
The book reads at time like a wife's scrapbook of all the press clippings and wonderful things said about her husband, and I teased my own husband, saying, when he was dead, I was going to write a book about him THREE TIMES as glowing. That part didn't age particularly well because--well--no one remembers the names of any of the people she drops, even if they'd still heard of her husband. Senator Who? Secretary of State What? All gone and forgotten. As are the days when newspapers used to write about pastors or quote their sermons, unless the guy has just molested somebody. And I squirmed every time Catherine Marshall mentioned "the Negro janitor" or the help. Yikes. Fortunately she includes sample sermons by Peter at the end, and he has a wonderful passage about the equality of all in the sight of God, no matter their color, and a reference to how difficult things were for African-Americans (and he gave this sermon in the '40s!). Nor will Peter Marshall's attitudes toward women working go over well nowadays, though it surprised me that women choosing career over home and family was an issue worth preaching about even then.
But what is entirely worthwhile is reading about how Peter Marshall's unorthodox (for then) preaching style impacted his listeners. He told stories and used contemporary culture to comment on timeless truths. He tried to get to people's emotions (heart), rather than just their heads. After reading about him, I could see his influence on other pastors I have known and heard. His legacy continues.
It was funny to read about his church having to add "a second, identical service" to handle the crowds. Catherine Marshall mentions it kinda defensively, but now it's so common no one blinks.
Anyhow. A worthwhile read, even if it's definitely a church-themed period piece.
April 24, 2016
For years I either read this book or watched the movie every Easter. It's been a while since I've done that, so when I picked it up again this year I wondered if I'd still consider it worth reading. Thankfully I do. In fact I really enjoyed this book, about a wonderful man of God who was an real person. I think his wife, Catherine Marshall, does a good job showing his strengths, weaknesses and humanity while still portraying his powerful faith.
There are many examples of times Marshall followed the Spirit and found God working out things better than he could have imagined, and some other times when things appeared to go wrong. It's also the picture of a real marriage, with disagreements as well as mutual support. I just appreciate the balance in this book, as well as the examples of faith both Peter and Catherine provide. Catherine and I both saw our husbands die much too young, and though I can't claim to have shared her experience in those first few days after his death, it rings very true to me. And I cried all through the last chapter. :) I just can't imagine how this book could be any better.
I appreciate the collection of sermon and prayer excerpts scattered through the book as well as the ones collected at the end. But I can't read this one without pulling Mr. Jones, Meet the Master back off the shelf, too.
"If God is not in your typewriter as well as your hymnbook,
there is something wrong with your religion.
If God does not enter your kitchen
there is something wrong with your kitchen.
If you can't take God into your recreation
there is something wrong with the way you play." Peter Marshall
There are many examples of times Marshall followed the Spirit and found God working out things better than he could have imagined, and some other times when things appeared to go wrong. It's also the picture of a real marriage, with disagreements as well as mutual support. I just appreciate the balance in this book, as well as the examples of faith both Peter and Catherine provide. Catherine and I both saw our husbands die much too young, and though I can't claim to have shared her experience in those first few days after his death, it rings very true to me. And I cried all through the last chapter. :) I just can't imagine how this book could be any better.
I appreciate the collection of sermon and prayer excerpts scattered through the book as well as the ones collected at the end. But I can't read this one without pulling Mr. Jones, Meet the Master back off the shelf, too.
"If God is not in your typewriter as well as your hymnbook,
there is something wrong with your religion.
If God does not enter your kitchen
there is something wrong with your kitchen.
If you can't take God into your recreation
there is something wrong with the way you play." Peter Marshall
August 30, 2015
I stumbled upon the movie by the same title, which made me want to know more abut the man. I got a book of his sermons and read it cover to cover. I actually got this book because of the sermons in the back, but thought I should read the book while I was at it, movie aside.
As typical, this is a lot more complete and in depth than the movie. Yet the story remains the same and it's the story that really is remarkable. Peter Marshall was a truly great man. He didn't live nearly long enough, but like all truly great men he wouldn't have cared, not because he was happy to leave his wife and young child, but because he trusted in God sufficiently to understand his timing. He'd accomplished what God had put him on this earth to do and left a legacy that stands to this day and continues to inspire.
I think the most memorable line of this book actually is something Catherine Marshall describes at the beginning of the book. She describes a dream in which Peter says it's OK if she writes the book, even if it embarrasses him a little, if it can prove "A man can love God and not be a sissy." We don't talk about sissys much nowadays, but anyone who has lived in America in recent years knows such a message is badly needed. Peter Marshall was no sissy. He was a strong, powerful man of God who was strong enough to love. That takes more courage than most have.
As typical, this is a lot more complete and in depth than the movie. Yet the story remains the same and it's the story that really is remarkable. Peter Marshall was a truly great man. He didn't live nearly long enough, but like all truly great men he wouldn't have cared, not because he was happy to leave his wife and young child, but because he trusted in God sufficiently to understand his timing. He'd accomplished what God had put him on this earth to do and left a legacy that stands to this day and continues to inspire.
I think the most memorable line of this book actually is something Catherine Marshall describes at the beginning of the book. She describes a dream in which Peter says it's OK if she writes the book, even if it embarrasses him a little, if it can prove "A man can love God and not be a sissy." We don't talk about sissys much nowadays, but anyone who has lived in America in recent years knows such a message is badly needed. Peter Marshall was no sissy. He was a strong, powerful man of God who was strong enough to love. That takes more courage than most have.
June 13, 2009
Terrific biography of Peter Marshall, a Scottish-American Presbyterian pastor and preacher. This man's story is an inspiration to me of God's work in a man's life to raise him up from humble beginnings to the Chaplaincy of the U.S. Senate. It includes as well some of his sermons and prayers. In sum, it's a wonderful work about this gifted and graced man. I also enjoyed the film of the same title.
May 29, 2020
Five stars, who am I to argue with history? I was thrilled to meet Peter John Marshall, the son, ten years ago. He was very nice, and spoke to me several times during the week of revivals. He quoted me as " a young teacher" [I was 35!:] who mentioned how hard it was to get the students to say the Pledge of Allegiance seriously (before 9/11). I am always affected when I read this book or watch the movie. It reaches my emotions and spirit in ways that few other books do.
July 25, 2010
I was touched by Catherine's love for her husband. She inspired me with how she handled Peter's death and, though I read her books years ago, they came back to soothe me when my own dear husband died.
October 4, 2014
I was first introduced to Peter Marshall through my Richard Todd phase- if you haven't seen the movie you should. But this book was great. Most books that are posthumously written by wives can be gushy. But this one wasn't. And I loved the appropriate last line.
April 8, 2014
Read this when I was a teenager and fell in love with it. I love the work he did and I think we all lost a beautiful soul when he died. Not many people like him alive today.
July 19, 2015
Love it. This is the book that changed my life. It started me thinking about becoming an author like Catherine and it's alot about finding your CALLING. I highly recommend it!
May 8, 2019
Dear Mother,
This Sunday is Mother’s Day in America. “This day is observed all over the country as the day on which tributes are paid to mothers and gifts made, all eloquent of Mother’s place in human affections…I felt during the day how much I owed MY mother, and although I was 5000 miles away from you, your influence, your faith in me, and your hopes in me were and are always near and real to me. You have planted well, and the seed which you planted is bearing fruit.
I assume your pride in me more precious than all the honors I have received… your ‘well done’ will be sweeter music than the platitudes I hear continuously… I send you not gifts, but appreciations that must be taken for granted, until I can show you by my presence in my life that I mean what I say. You have given me memories that are precious. You have furnished me with the background upon which I am trying to paint the picture you have dreamed of. Anything accomplished by me is not the result of my own efforts, but the result of your prayers and your dreams for my success—not a material things, but in the things that count, that are eternal.
The values I have of life and eternity are mostly the heritages of some mysterious influence you have exerted in my early life. I must be faithful and exemplify the ideals you have always cherished in your heart. May you be satisfied some day when you see the fruits… I send my love and tenderness to solicitations. May God bless and keep you, Mother Mine.”
Your affectionate daughter,
—excerpted from my mother's very own copy of Catherine Marshall’s A Man Called Peter
This Sunday is Mother’s Day in America. “This day is observed all over the country as the day on which tributes are paid to mothers and gifts made, all eloquent of Mother’s place in human affections…I felt during the day how much I owed MY mother, and although I was 5000 miles away from you, your influence, your faith in me, and your hopes in me were and are always near and real to me. You have planted well, and the seed which you planted is bearing fruit.
I assume your pride in me more precious than all the honors I have received… your ‘well done’ will be sweeter music than the platitudes I hear continuously… I send you not gifts, but appreciations that must be taken for granted, until I can show you by my presence in my life that I mean what I say. You have given me memories that are precious. You have furnished me with the background upon which I am trying to paint the picture you have dreamed of. Anything accomplished by me is not the result of my own efforts, but the result of your prayers and your dreams for my success—not a material things, but in the things that count, that are eternal.
The values I have of life and eternity are mostly the heritages of some mysterious influence you have exerted in my early life. I must be faithful and exemplify the ideals you have always cherished in your heart. May you be satisfied some day when you see the fruits… I send my love and tenderness to solicitations. May God bless and keep you, Mother Mine.”
Your affectionate daughter,
—excerpted from my mother's very own copy of Catherine Marshall’s A Man Called Peter
October 23, 2020
This is a loving tribute of a biography. Catherine Marshall, famous to us today for her novel Christy, wrote the story of her husband Peter Marshall's life after he passed away, publishing it two years after he died. It traces his growth from a Scottish boy working in a factory to his calling to become a minister in America, on through his schooling here in the US and his career as a minister that eventually led to his being the chaplain for the U.S. Senate.
I think both Marshalls had beautiful faith, and I think I would have liked them both as people. I really enjoyed this biography, and I'm eager to see the movie version now that I've read it, as it stars Richard Todd, an actor I'm quite fond of. In fact, I read much of Peter Marshall's dialog in Todd's voice in my head because Todd has a delightful Scottish accent, which Marshall reportedly had also.
I must confess that I did not read the sermons and prayers included at the end of this book. As is to be expected, since I am a Lutheran and they were Presbyterians, I did not agree with some of the theology presented in the bulk of the biography, and did not feel like wading through sermons and prayers I would undoubtedly spend a lot of time disagreeing with.
I think both Marshalls had beautiful faith, and I think I would have liked them both as people. I really enjoyed this biography, and I'm eager to see the movie version now that I've read it, as it stars Richard Todd, an actor I'm quite fond of. In fact, I read much of Peter Marshall's dialog in Todd's voice in my head because Todd has a delightful Scottish accent, which Marshall reportedly had also.
I must confess that I did not read the sermons and prayers included at the end of this book. As is to be expected, since I am a Lutheran and they were Presbyterians, I did not agree with some of the theology presented in the bulk of the biography, and did not feel like wading through sermons and prayers I would undoubtedly spend a lot of time disagreeing with.
May 2, 2023
I never saw the movie that was apparently made out of this book… I like the writing well enough, and the story is OK, nothing that really wowed me. I got a little bored… Well, a lot bored and yawned through much of it because it was too God gushy for me. I mean no disrespect to anyone who believes in God, and I know there are plenty of people who absolutely love this book. I guess I can say I have read it. Not really my cup of tea, but I'm not sure that I disliked it so much to rate it 2 stars. Maybe 2.5 stars… I dunno. Meh.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews