By Janet Clark
Discussion Questions for Blind Faith
1. The bulk of the story takes place in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
What societal changes have occurred since that time, and do those changes make children more or less likely to be abused?
Are they more likely to be believed if they come forward now?
2. What is your reaction to Mike O’Donnell?
Does your perception of him change as the story progresses?
3. Why does no one question Father Delanoit’s interest in the boys he abuses?
Is it because of his position of authority or because of the times, or some other factors?
Would you have found him suspicious?
What precautions do adults need to take in order to avoid even the appearance of evil when working with kids?
4. What, if any, clues did Lucinda miss that might have led to her uncovering the truth?
5. What is the difference between faith and blind faith?
Is it ever appropriate to have blind faith in another person or an institution?
6. What leads Pappa to perceive that Father Delanoit may not be who he presents himself to be?
7. Why did Father Novak continue to cover up for Father Delanoit, even though he thought Delanoit was dangerous to children?
Did he experience any internal conflict about his role in the cover-up?
8. Pappa’s friend Vinny became angry when Pappa questioned him about Father Delanoit. Did he have any valid reasons to fear coming forward with what he may have heard about the priest’s behavior?
9. Kelly is the friend that every abuse survivor needs in their corner: compassionate, non-judgmental, and clear about her own boundaries.
How does Kelly’s friendship impact Jack’s life?
How would his life have been different if she hadn’t been there for him?
10. What challenges will Jack face as an adult, and what tools does he have to help him meet those challenges?
11. Does Rhonda allow Jack to use his background as an excuse for his violent outbursts? How are his outbursts connected with the abuse?
Is it still more acceptable for males in our society to show anger than sadness or fear?
12. Did you see any point at which Alan Castani could have made a better choice and created a different life for himself, or was he simply the victim of his circumstances?
Do you think he ever recovered from the effects of the abuse?
13. Regarding sexual abuse by authority figures, what challenges are faced by the Roman Catholic Church and other institutions?
What needs to happen in order to ensure children and vulnerable adults are safe?