"The goal is for this to be a place for respectful discussion; informed criticism; Christian orthodoxy; sound economics; traditional conservatism; civilized politics; interesting reviews of books, movies, television and streaming shows, and other artsy stuff; sports analysis; humor; fun; and more." - Ray Keating, editor, publisher, columnist and economist at the Keating Files
For about 20 years, Ray Keating wrote a weekly column - a short time with the New York City Tribune, more than 11 years with Newsday, another seven years with Long Island Business News, plus another year-and-a-half with RealClearMarkets.com. As an economist, Keating also pens an assortment of analyses each week. With the Keating Files, he decided to expand his efforts with regular commentary touching on a broad range of issues, written by himself and an assortment of talented contributors and columnists. So, here goes...
A quick video about the journey to and experience at the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod National Convention. Thanks to Jonathan Keating for creating this cool video!
In case you’re not completely caught up on Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant and Alliance of Saint Michael novels, the following is a complete list, with summaries and links to purchase paperbacks, Kindle editions and signed books.
• Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel by Ray Keating
The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism. In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.
• Persecution: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
While the charge of “persecution” gets tossed about rather casually, Pastor Stephen Grant and some of his closest friends and associates get a close-up, bloody view of what it truly means to be a modern-day martyr. From the White House to the Vatican, and from Russia to the Middle East, the action is unrelenting and the suspense is palpable. Can Grant and his former CIA colleagues act in time to save innocent lives?
• What’s Lost? A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating
From the pages of his own journal, Pastor Stephen Grant tells a riveting mystery involving deception, betrayal, sacrifice and friendship, along with plenty of action and questions about what we truly can know about others. Grant takes us on a personal journey across decades and around the world, from Long Island to Vietnam. This is the second Pastor Stephen Grant story told from Grant’s own viewpoint, unfolding each day in the pages of his journal.
• Past Lives: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating
Torn from pages of his own journal, Pastor Stephen Grant tells about threats, murder and puzzling people from his past. It’s a compelling mystery involving action, unexpected turns, lost innocence, sought-after perspective, and twisted revenge. This is the first Pastor Stephen Grant story told from Grant’s own viewpoint, unfolding each day in the pages of his journal.
• Vatican Shadows: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
More than 500 years ago, two men – Jan Hus and Martin Luther – tried to bring about change in the Catholic Church. They suffered, with one burned at the stake. Could a modern-day pope transform these reformers from heretics to heroes in the eyes of the Catholic Church? Shadowy figures inside and outside the Vatican oppose Pope Paul VII’s efforts, and stand willing to do anything to stop him. For help, the pope turns to Stephen Grant, a Lutheran pastor, former Navy SEAL and onetime CIA operative.
• The Traitor: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Stephen Grant – former Navy SEAL, onetime CIA operative and current pastor – looks forward to a time of prayer and reflection during a retreat at a monastery in Europe. But when he stumbles upon an infamous CIA traitor in a small village, Grant’s plans change dramatically. While a debate rages over government secrets and the intelligence community, a deadly race for survival is underway. From a pro-democracy demonstration in Hong Kong to the CIA’s headquarters in Langley to a monastery in France, the action and intrigue never let up.
• Deep Rough: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
One man faces challenges as a pastor in China. His son has become a breakout phenom in the world of professional golf. The Chinese government is displeased with both, and their lives are in danger. Stephen Grant – a onetime Navy SEAL, former CIA operative and current pastor – has a history with the communist Chinese, while also claiming a pretty solid golf game. His unique experience and skills unexpectedly put him alongside old friends; at some of golf’s biggest tournaments as a caddy and bodyguard; and in the middle of an international struggle over Christian persecution, a mission of revenge, and a battle between good and evil.
• Shifting Sands: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating
Beach volleyball is about fun, sun and sand. But when a big-time tournament arrives on a pier in New York City, danger and international intrigue are added to the mix. Stephen Grant, a former Navy SEAL, onetime CIA operative, and current pastor, is on the scene with his wife, friends and former CIA colleagues. While battles on the volleyball court play out, deadly struggles between good and evil are engaged on and off the sand.
• Heroes and Villains: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating
As a onetime Navy SEAL, a former CIA operative and a pastor, many people call Stephen Grant a hero. At various times defending the Christian Church and the United States over the years, he has journeyed across the nation and around the world. But now Grant finds himself in an entirely unfamiliar setting – a comic book, science fiction and fantasy convention. But he still joins forces with a unique set of heroes in an attempt to foil a villainous plot against one of the all-time great comic book writers and artists.
• Reagan Country: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Could President Ronald Reagan’s influence reach into the former “evil empire”? The media refers to a businessman on the rise as “Russia’s Reagan.” Unfortunately, others seek a return to the old ways, longing for Russia’s former “greatness.” The dispute becomes deadly. Conflict stretches from the Reagan Presidential Library in California to the White House to a Russian Orthodox monastery to the Kremlin. Stephen Grant, pastor at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church on Long Island, a former Navy SEAL and onetime CIA operative, stands at the center of the tumult.
• Lionhearts: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
War has arrived on American soil, with Islamic terrorists using new tactics. Few are safe, including Christians, politicians, and the media. Pastor Stephen Grant taps into his past with the Navy SEALS and the CIA to help wage a war of flesh and blood, ideas, history, and beliefs. This is about defending both the U.S. and Christianity.
• Wine Into Water: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Blood, wine, sin, justice and forgiveness… Who knew the wine business could be so sordid and violent? That’s what happens when it's infiltrated by counterfeiters. A pastor, once a Navy SEAL and CIA operative, is pulled into action to help unravel a mystery involving fake wine, murder and revenge. Stephen Grant is called to take on evil, while staying rooted in his life as a pastor.
• Murderer’s Row: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
How do rescuing a Christian family from the clutches of Islamic terrorists, minor league baseball in New York, a string of grisly murders, sordid politics, and a pastor, who once was a Navy SEAL and CIA operative, tie together? Murderer’s Row is the fifth Pastor Stephen Grant novel, and Keating serves up fascinating characters, gripping adventure, and a tangled murder mystery, along with faith, politics, humor, and, yes, baseball.
• The River: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Some refer to Las Vegas as Sin City. But the sins being committed in The River are not what one might typically expect. Rather, it’s about murder. Stephen Grant once used lethal skills for the Navy SEALs and the CIA. Now, years later, he’s a pastor. How does this man of action and faith react when his wife is kidnapped, a deep mystery must be untangled, and both allies and suspects from his CIA days arrive on the scene? How far can Grant go – or will he go – to save the woman he loves? Will he seek justice or revenge, and can he tell the difference any longer?
• An Advent for Religious Liberty: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Advent and Christmas approach. It’s supposed to be a special season for Christians. But it’s different this time in New York City. Religious liberty is under assault. The Catholic Church has been called a “hate group.” And it’s the newly elected mayor of New York City who has set off this religious and political firestorm. Some people react with prayer – others with violence and murder. Stephen Grant, former CIA operative turned pastor, faces deadly challenges during what becomes known as “An Advent for Religious Liberty.” Grant works with the cardinal who leads the Archdiocese of New York, the FBI, current friends, and former CIA colleagues to fight for religious liberty, and against dangers both spiritual and physical.
• Root of All Evil? A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Do God, politics and money mix? In Root of All Evil?, the combination can turn out quite deadly. Keating introduced readers to Stephen Grant, a former CIA operative and current parish pastor, in the fun and highly praised Warrior Monk. Now, Grant is back in Root of All Evil? It’s a breathtaking thriller involving drug traffickers, politicians, the CIA and FBI, a shadowy foreign regime, the Church, and money. Charity, envy and greed are on display. Throughout, action runs high.
• Warrior Monk: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating
Warrior Monk revolves around a former CIA assassin, Stephen Grant, who has lived a far different, relatively quiet life as a parish pastor in recent years. However, a shooting at his church, a historic papal proposal, and threats to the pope's life mean that Grant's former and current lives collide. Grant must tap the varied skills learned as a government agent, a theologian and a pastor not only to protect the pope, but also to feel his way through a minefield of personal challenges. The second edition of Warrior Monk includes a new Introduction by Ray Keating, as well as a new Epilogue that points to an upcoming Pastor Stephen Grant novel.
The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism.
In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.
Regarding CATHEDRAL…
"A stellar depiction of time period and tension. With so many swirling motives and three-dimensional characters in the mix, there is inherent tension for readers, as they eagerly anticipate one of Keating’s classic twists. The depth of historical detail is notable; a good deal of research went into the crafting of this novel, which gives it an authentic and immersive feel. The complex puzzle makes for a page-turning and unpredictable ride, and a firm foundation for Keating’s enticing new series." - Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★
“…many of you will enjoy Cathedral and the new series that it launches… Ray Keating is working with an explicitly Christian moral and theological framework, demonstrating the freedom that Lutheran novelists have in their vocation.” - Gene Veith, Cranach: The Blog of Veith, and author of many books including The Spirituality of the Cross
“A sophisticatedly crafted and exhilarating read, the intrigue and thrills begin from the very first page and don’t stop till the end as Keating delivers an absolute corker of a Historical Thriller! … Cathedral proves an addictively entertaining five-star read and is unreservedly recommended.” - BookViral Reviews
“This new Alliance of St. Michael series continues Keating's already demonstrated mastery and skill in writing, character development, and accelerating the interest level of the reader throughout… As with all Keating novels, this newest venture is worth your interest, reading and gifting.” - Pastor Rod Zwonitzer, retired host of KFUO radio's “BookTalk”
“A Catholic, a Lutheran, and an Anglican walk into an auditorium, all surprisingly ready for action and adventure. Ray Keating’s newest series, ‘An Alliance of Saint Michael,’ is an action thriller starring various Christians, of various denominations, coming together to fight ideological evil… a good summer read, quite in line with Keating’s other works.” - Mary J. Moerbe, “Meet, Write & Salutary” blog
I don’t particularly like when people talk about “the good old days.” Were they really that good?
I’ve also become less of a fan of the word “nostalgia,” coming to see a sentimental longing for the past as kind of sad.
Yet, at the same time, I’m fascinated by the past, by history. Heck, I just published a piece of historical fiction – Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel – set in the early 1930s.
So, what’s the deal? Specifically, I love learning from the past; finding people, moments and things from history offering insights and value; and informing people today so that they too can learn and gain appreciation.
Having said this, rare moments occur when someone or something great from the past builds on those experiences to raise something current to a higher level in certain ways. I had that happen twice over the past week and a half.
First, I saw Paul McCartney at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on May 28. While I was excited to see one of the true greats of rock ‘n’ roll, I didn’t really know what to expect with the “Got Back” tour. After all, the former Beatle is 79 years old. So, I lowered my expectations heading to the concert. No matter what, just seeing McCartney live in concert would be enough.
It turned out that I was completely blown away. The music was awesome largely because of McCartney’s abilities, again, at 79. His voice was strong. His guitar and piano playing were spot on. The entire show was a sensation. And then throw into the mix his history as a great songwriter and Beatle, as well as the fact that he skillfully sprinkled in some wonderful stories and bows to the likes of John Lennon and George Harrison. There also was a humbleness communicated from McCartney that was in no way contrived.
This ranked as a celebration of McCartney’s entire career, a recognition of his past and current skills, and very much a top-notch concert (indeed, one of the best I’ve ever attended).
For all of my life, I’ve loved songs like “Junior’s Farm,” “Love Me Do,” “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,” and “Band on the Run.” And McCartney and his current band played those superbly, as they did with the rest of their lengthy playlist for more than two-and-half hours that night.
And then there was the three-song close to their main setlist – a beautiful rendition of “Let It Be,” followed by a major shift of gears to “Live and Let Die” amidst fire and fireworks, and then cellphone lights filling the stadium to “Hey Jude.” Toss in an excellent encore, and this Paul McCartney concert was sublime.
Could there be more? A few nights later, I had a different, yet similar experience in a movie theater.
While I enjoyed Top Gun when it hit movie theaters in 1986, it was never a big favorite of mine. For some reason, however, the trailers for Top Gun: Maverick, a sequel coming 36 years later, captured my imagination, and my anticipation was only further fueled by what I had read about the film.
Top Gun: Maverick wasn’t going to be a green screen, CGI escapade. This was going to be actors in the cockpits of jet fighters (along with actual pilots), real aircraft carriers, and so on. And it in no way disappointed. The flight scenes were nothing less than breathtaking. I’ve come to expect a great deal visually from a Tom Cruise movie in recent years, and this did more than deliver, it surpassed those expectations.
But, yes, there was still more. While this was first and foremost an action movie, it had real characters. It was evident that the director, Joseph Kosinski, writers and actors cared about the story. It had heart. It made sense (never a given today). And there was real weight to the decisions and actions taken by the characters. And it dealt with such values as honor and sacrifice.
Do you have to see Top Gun to fully appreciate Top Gun: Maverick? It certainly helps, but it isn’t a hard requirement. While taking much from that 1986 film, this new movie moves beyond it in most ways – from the characters to the action.
Tom Cruise, Kosinski and the rest of the cast and crew have achieved what few others have in Hollywood. They took something from the past that was beloved by many, and improved upon it. In fact, Top Gun: Maverick is an action movie that not only blows past many other recent action films, but it’s far superior to the original Top Gun.
Yeah, from Paul McCartney belting out “Get Back” to Tom Cruise skimming the treetops in jet fighter, this was far more than mere nostalgia, it was current-day greatness with a tip of the hat to the past.
_________
Ray Keating is a columnist, novelist, economist, podcaster and entrepreneur. The views expressed here are his own – after all, no one else should be held responsible for this stuff, right?
Two great ways to pre-order Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel, which is Ray’s sixteenth work of fiction, and the first in the Alliance of Saint Michael series. Signed paperbacks here and the Kindle edition here.
Two great ways to order Ray Keating’s new nonfiction book –The Weekly Economist: 52 Quick Reads to Help You Think Like an Economist. Signed paperbacks here, and paperbacks, hardcovers and Kindle editions here.
Get all of Ray Keating Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries in paperback and for the Kindle at Amazon.com and signed books at www.RayKeatingOnline.com.
The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism.
In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.
Regarding Cathedral…
"A stellar depiction of time period and tension. With so many swirling motives and three-dimensional characters in the mix, there is inherent tension for readers, as they eagerly anticipate one of Keating’s classic twists. The depth of historical detail is notable; a good deal of research went into the crafting of this novel, which gives it an authentic and immersive feel. The complex puzzle makes for a page-turning and unpredictable ride, and a firm foundation for Keating’s enticing new series." - Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★
Order the paperbacks, hardcovers and Kindle editions right here!
Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novelis a new edge-of-your-seat adventure from Ray Keating. This is his sixteenth work of fiction, and the first in the Alliance of Saint Michael series.
The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism.
In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.
Cathedral is a work of historical fiction filled with interesting characters that readers will come to care about, nail-biting moments, thrilling action, assorted mysteries and questions, love, danger, friendship, and reflections on God, faith, war, one’s calling in life and more.
Ray Keating, who is known for penning 15 Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries (with more coming), said, “I’m excited to introduce new stories and characters set in a time of grave dangers. I found it particularly fascinating to explore how these characters choose to act in a time when Western Civilization is confronted by the challenges of both fascism and communism.”
Regarding Ray Keating, Kirkus Reviews calls his books “exhilarating.” Lutheran Book Review says, “I miss Tom Clancy. Keating fills that void for me.” The retired host of KFUO radio’s BookTalk declares, “Ray Keating is a great novelist.”
Save on any or all of the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries. Save on pre-ordering Ray’s new novel Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel. Save on Ray’s books on the economy and business, including pre-ordering The Weekly Economist: 52 Quick Reads to Help You Think Like an Economist. Save on everything!
Use coupon code “Easter15” at checkout. Sale ends on April 19th! Go to www.RayKeatingOnline.com.
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