Elpidio

Elpidio, which is a translation of the Greek word for hope, captures the colourful characters and situations Bob and his wife Betty encounter in and around Owen Sound and beyond. From the tattoo parlour to city benches, and the full moon to a new Schwinn bicycle, Bob explores and explains many of life’s challenges and joys, with his own particular sense of humour and astute observation.

Based on pieces originally published in The Sun Times, Elpidio includes 52 short, thoughtful reflections on life, organized according to the seasons of the year.

Bob Giuliano is a retired United Church minister and professor of Theology from Huron University College who retired to Owen Sound in 1998. Having moved from the pulpit to the pen, he has written a popular weekly newspaper column, “As Others See It,” for many years. Enthusiastic readers have asked for more; Elpidio includes some of Bob’s most popular columns. Well known writer Jean Vanier has written, “This little book is a wonderful testimony of hope for today. It tells of a vision that Bob and I had—and still have—and wish to communicate and see rise up again.”

"It is good news that regular Observer contributor Bob Giuliano has published a book of columns. Good news because the man can write; his insight and humour bring considerable substance to his engaging style. Whether he is writing about life in a tattoo parlour or the loneliness of God or of his earlier days as a pastor and chaplain, Giuliano loves us as he finds us, frail humans, doing the best we can as we age in a world we still can't figure out. Each column is like a conversation with a friend who has been there too and holds out hope." From The United Church Observer, October 2006