Reverend Father Jonathan Whawhen, a devoted Catholic priest known for his spiritual guidance and literary passion, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, launched his second book titled “The Gifts of the Sacrament of Recommendation” at the St. Mary Parish in Tweh Farm, Bushrod Island. The colorful ceremony drew parishioners, clergy, and members of the wider Christian community who gathered to celebrate the priest’s latest contribution to Catholic literature and spirituality.
Speaking with our reporter after the launch, Fr. Whawhen expressed gratitude to God and the faithful for their support, emphasizing that the book was not just a work of theology but also a reflection of faith, love, and service. He explained that the inspiration behind the book came from his years of pastoral experience and his deep desire to help Christians understand the value of recommendation and intercession in the life of the Church.
“The Sacrament of Recommendation reminds us that every believer has a duty to support and pray for one another. Through this book, I hope to encourage Christians to rediscover the spiritual gifts embedded in this sacred practice,” Father Whawhen told our reporter. According to the priest, proceeds from the sale of the book will go toward the construction and support of St. Mary’s outstation in the Borough of New Kru Town, one of Monrovia’s oldest and most densely populated communities.
The Assistant Priest of St. Mary Parish described the initiative as a way of extending the mission of the Church to the outskirts and providing a place of worship for the growing Catholic population in the area. He encouraged Liberians to cultivate a culture of reading and reflection. He said that books remain one of the most powerful tools for evangelization and personal growth, adding that every Christian should make time to study the faith.
He also called on the faithful to support the construction of the New Kru Town outstation, describing it as a sacred duty that would bring hope and unity to a community in need of spiritual nourishment. Delivering remarks at the program, the Assistant Parish Priest at Holy Family Parish, Rev. Father Orsias Iriabe, lauded Fr. Whawhen for his continuous dedication to the faith and for using his talents to uplift others.
He said, “Fr. Jonathan is not only a priest, but a teacher and writer whose works are making a lasting impact. This book reminds us of the Church’s unending mission to touch lives through word and action.” Meanwhile, parishioners of St. Mary Parish and guests at the event welcomed the announcement with applause, pledging their full support for the initiative.
Many described the gesture as a demonstration of Fr. Whawhen’s commitment to both spiritual and community development. Several prominent figures from the Catholic community, including members of the Knights of St. John International and others organizations attended the event.
The launch featured readings from selected chapters of the book, musical renditions, and a symbolic presentation of copies to representatives of various parishes. A parishioner who attended the launch, said the event was both spiritual and inspiring, stating, Fr. Jonathan has once again shown that the Church can use literature to reach souls. “His book will surely help many understand the spiritual power of intercession and recommendation,” the parishioner explained.
