STROKE OF GRACE; Knowing God's Grace in Distress and Triumph

Although this book deals primarily with God's grace carrying the author through many trying situations while recovering from a mid-life stroke and later diagnosis with bipolar disorder, it also relates Vietnam combat flying sorties, college football action, overseas missionary experience and local church pastoring through ordination as a minister. Theme of the book is overcoming adversity while trying to live a Christian life under trying circumstances. Many persons have recently revealed their bouts with bipolar illness and the author is no exception. Dealing with local church congregations while anger and frustration lurked always below the surface, the author's struggle is reviewed by a friend and mentor:
"Jerry Heydenberk's reflection on his life, with the pain and brokenness and mental and physical illness, is candid and inspiring. Not only has he known pain, he has also known joy and accomplishment as he assumes the mantle of leadership as a student, a teacher and an ordained minister. In family and church, school and work, in times of health and illness, he has experienced God's offering God's grace and peace."--Bishop Ann Brookshire Sherer-Simpson, retired from the Nebraska annual Conference of The United Methodist Church.