Brennan Manning

Date of Birth: April 27, 1934

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: April 12, 2013

Biography

Brennan Manning, born Richard Francis Xavier Manning, was an influential American author, speaker, and former Franciscan priest. Known for his deeply spiritual writings, Manning’s work focused on the infinite love of God and the importance of accepting oneself as loved and forgiven. Born in New York City, Manning served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War before entering the priesthood. He attended St. Francis Seminary and was ordained a Franciscan priest in 1963. After several years of missionary work in Europe and the U.S., Manning left the priesthood in the early 1970s, struggling with alcoholism and personal crises. His experiences profoundly shaped his writing and speaking engagements, where he emphasized God’s grace and love, especially in his bestselling book, “The Ragamuffin Gospel.” Manning’s work has inspired countless readers and listeners to embrace a more authentic and grace-filled spirituality. He passed away on April 12, 2013, leaving a lasting legacy in Christian literature and thought.

5 Interesting Facts about Brennan Manning

1. Brennan Manning was originally named Richard Francis Xavier Manning but adopted the name Brennan after his hero, a fellow seminarian who died in a car accident.

2. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and fought in the Korean War before becoming a priest.

3. Manning struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which he openly discussed in his writings and talks.

4. His most famous book, “The Ragamuffin Gospel,” has sold over a million copies and remains a pivotal work in Christian literature.

5. Manning spent six months living in a cave in the Zaragoza desert in Spain, committing himself to a life of prayer and solitude.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Brennan Manning

1. “My deepest awareness of myself is that I am deeply loved by Jesus Christ and I have done nothing to earn it or deserve it.”

2. “Define yourself radically as one beloved by God. This is the true self. Every other identity is illusion.”

3. “In a futile attempt to erase our past, we deprive the community of our healing gift. If we conceal our wounds out of fear and shame, our inner darkness can neither be illuminated nor become a light for others.”

4. “To live by grace means to acknowledge my whole life story, the light side and the dark. In admitting my shadow side, I learn who I am and what God’s grace means.”

5. “God loves you unconditionally, as you are and not as you should be, because nobody is as they should be.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Brennan Manning’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, primarily earned through his book sales, speaking engagements, and royalties.