Description
Unashamedly Gypsy by birth and nature, John Purcell’s passion for Jesus shines through on every page of this book. How does a man who couldn’t read or write manage to run a successful business, travel the world as the “Gypsy Preacher,” lead thousands to Christ, witness countless miracles, and become known as ‘The Walking Bible’?
Born in Dublin, Ireland, as the eldest of eighteen children, John’s family left in search of a better life within the Irish community in Liverpool. However, the promise of new beginnings brought harsh realities. While his parents left for work early in the morning and returned late at night, John and his siblings were thrown out each day by the landlady, left to fend for themselves. Determined to care for his brothers and sisters, John sought shelter and “acquired” food and milk, risking beatings if caught.
As a teenager, John summoned the courage to ask Patricia, a non-Gypsy woman, out on a date. To his surprise, she said “yes!” Determined not to let her go, he proposed that very night, and within six months, they were married. Patricia quickly adapted—not only to Gypsy culture but also to the adventures of life with John, which would prove even more challenging. The family returned to Ireland during the height of the Troubles. They travelled in a convoy and rolled into the heart of Newry town, where they set up camp for several years in a local car park, marking the start of a new chapter in turbulent times.
From miraculous healings to near-miss adventures—like stubbornly driving through France on the wrong side of the road and wondering why French drivers were blaring their horns—or building a beautiful home for his wife, only for her to refuse to live in it, John’s life is full of surprises. And there was his love for exotic pets, such as a dancing camel, an untamed pig, and other unusual animals. Drivers would stop their cars outside his home to take photos of these creatures. As they did, John would seize the opportunity to share the gospel with them.
The ‘Gypsy Preacher’ will make you laugh, cry, and be deeply inspired—a tale of a man who, against all odds, sought to live out the teachings of Jesus.
About the Author
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