Official Interview: Rev Errol E Leslie

[kandscreeley]

Today's Chat with Sarah features Rev Errol E Leslie author of Stolen Grace.

Official Review

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1. What do you do when you aren't writing?

To be honest, writing is not full-time for me at this stage; although, I am experiencing a strong pull in that direction. So, for now, when I am not writing, I am either doing stuff around my home or at my regular job.

2. What does your writing environment look like?

My writing environment now has been and can be anywhere I can take my laptop or even an iPad or a telephone. I tend to write even during my breaks at work or when I am on vacation. It relaxes me quite a bit.

3. Let's discuss your book Stolen Grace. Can you sum it up for those that don't know?

Stolen Grace is a gripping story of mental agony, fighting, stress, survival, and redemption which I experienced as a pastor. I struggled to find love, respect, and peace in my home and then became vulnerable, falling prey to the advances of a beautiful but very manipulative woman who attended high school with me several decades before. My 'human predator' informed the church of our relationship, and I was then put through a harrowing, brutal, dishonest, and unethical church court trial which resulted in the end of my pastoral career after nearly forty years of service. I have always preached about grace and forgiveness and so in this situation, I felt that the free grace, forgiveness, and undeserved love, which I experienced from God, was "stolen" from me. So, on the other side, the other main character is this manipulative woman who is physically beautiful on the outside but has some very dark characteristic traits lurking on the inside. After being divorced from her pastor husband, she goes on a mission to seduce unsuspecting men (especially pastors) and then brutally seeks to ruin their lives if they do not let her have her way. I became the latest of her "victims," and I succumbed to my sexual vulnerabilities due to a very stressful and unhappy time in my marriage.

4. What made you decide to write your memoir?

I wrote the memoir because it was very shocking to discover how corrupt and unethical the hierarchy of the United Methodist Church could be. My hope is that if my story catches traction, it would dissuade church leaders from abusing their power and taking advantage of persons who may not have the resources to adequately defend themselves.

5. How difficult was it to write these personal details?

It was very difficult to write these personal details because, as a pastor, I am supposed to lead by example and as such stay away from immorality. However, to make my story compelling and effective, I had to speak the truth by admitting my wrongdoings but also reminding the world that even if I was condemned by other human beings, God still loved me. I also hope that it would serve as a source of encouragement to other persons or even pastors who have felt condemned or judged by the rest of the world.

6. There is religion in the book. Is this better suited for a Christian audience? Why or why not?

On the surface, this book may appear to be better suited for a Christian audience because the story takes place within the context of Christian ministry. However, it does have themes of redemption and overcoming challenges which are applicable in the regular or secular world as well.

7. What did you want readers to learn after reading your book?

I would like for readers to learn that there are opportunities for second and third chances (redemption) after they have made mistakes in life. Secondly, readers can learn that they do not have to 'cave in' to the persons who seem to have the perceived power to keep them down. We should all learn to fight back even when the odds of winning seem to be against us.

8. What's next for you?

I do hope to continue writing, and presently, I am concentrating on a series of biblical musicals and other theatrical productions.

I like to end with fun questions. You can answer some, all, or none of these.

9. What's your favorite time of year?

I like summer because we tend to relax more, and it is always a good time to take vacations.

10. How do you relax?

I tend to relax more by listening to or playing music. However as stated above, writing also helps to relax me.

11. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pizza with vegetable toppings

12. How do you take your coffee?

I like my coffee very strong, and I take it with cream and sugar.

[Annette Boateng]

I will say this is a manageable interview.

[Lakshyaaj J]

Your interview was insightful and engaging, providing a deep dive into your creative process and inspiration. Thank you for sharing your journey and wisdom with us.