War and Prayer: St. Athanasius Parish Goes to War Hardcover – March 2, 2026

This is the story of a typical Roman Catholic parish, St. Athanasius Church, located in the northwest section of Philadelphia, known as West Oak Lane, sending its young people off to World War II. A rather young parish at the time (founded in 1928) finding its legs so to speak, sending its finest off to the four corners of the Earth, supported by family, friends and the overwhelming support of the Prayer Warriors - better known as the Parish's (Women's) Sodality. Told are individual stories of heroism if known, battalion and division achievements, and family relationships against the backdrop of the stories published in the Parish's Monthly Calendar (news). It also encompasses the sacrifices of the young ladies who served to the best of their capacity; The book provides a map of the individual "hero homes", of those who perished during their service during World War II. This is not just a book that would appeal to local folks, but also to individuals that understand the dynamics of the city parish, especially during those turbulent war years. Read more