About the Book

The Pink Suitcase is a story of the challenges and experiences while administering to others as a Deacon in the Catholic Church. In this book he shares timely stories of hope and inspiration. He especially speaks to those that feel they have nowhere to turn to in times of difficulty.

Author's Journey

His journey from Greenville, Tennessee to Cleveland, Ohio with a stopover in Vietnam reflects the responsibility and challenges that he has faced as a Deacon in the diocese of Cleveland, Ohio.

Background and Inspiration

The Reverend Deacon Shelby M. Friend feels that he is especially unique because he came from a "dirt poor" Southern family who attended a Methodist Church in East Tennessee when he was growing up. He believes that his words of wisdom from his parents as well as his own sense of enlightenment upon his consecration in the Catholic Church are important words for readers to hear.