Here are stories of strength, courage, joy, and hope. Stories that inform and gladden the heart. Uplifting. Sparks of Grace is a collection of essays and reflections on the word of God. Real, simple, true to life inspiring anecdotes. You will find some of my own personal anecdotes too inserted in many pages of this book. My life growing up, struggles and conflicts borne from my early years, experiences during my studies, my formation, and my ministry in the Church, including insights from some of my travels and pilgrimages. Some are a bit theatrical and comical; I admit. That's just my opinion. If they are and you agree, thanks! If not, I'll just go and run to my room! God's abundant grace is around us. Just waiting to be had if one is free of any impediment to receive it. If we are given the grace, imagine what that knowledge can do to us. Finding our own purpose in life. Deepening our love of God. Inexplicable joy. My hope is that we may begin to see all that in this first series of books about grace. God transforms us and the world with His grace. May the Holy Spirit enkindle in us the fire of God's love enabling us to do good and be of faithful service to His people. Amen. JUAN P. AQUINO, a Permanent Deacon of the Roman Catholic Church in the Diocese of San Jose, California was ordained in 2012. He served as a parish deacon at Most Holy Trinity Church in San Jose and currently, serves as a parish deacon at St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Morgan Hill. He has a particular interest in spiritual care for the sick and outreach to the poor and the homeless. He holds a Master's degree in Pastoral Ministries from Santa Clara University in California. A retired accountant, he lives in Merced with his wife, Lita. They have three children, Jonas Victor, Maria Lizette, and Jimmy John. Aquino's personal interests include cooking, gardening, golf, investing, literature, music, travel, and spending time with his wife.