A large crowd gathered at the Talbot Hotel, Ballincollig, for the launch of Quest for Meaning, a newly abridged edition of the acclaimed work by the late Dr Fr Gearóid Ó Donnchadha. The strong turnout reflected the high regard in which Fr Gearóid is held in Cork and Kerry, having lectured at University College Cork and what is now Munster Technological University, as well as the interest in this accessible new version prepared by his sister, Noreen O’Brien.
JM Agency are so proud of the fact that Noreen and her family availed of our Book Publishing Package to bring this essential abridged version of Quest for Meaning to life.
Originally published in 2023 to wide acclaim, A Quest for Meaning: A Journey Through Science, Philosophy and Spirituality brought readers on a wide-ranging exploration of topics including quantum theory, phenomenology, Celtic spirituality and the history of the Christian faith. At its heart was a simple but powerful message: that faith and love are central to what it means to be human.
Drawing on her experience as a teacher and her personal understanding of her brother’s work, Noreen O’Brien has created a version that makes the book more accessible while keeping its depth and insight.
Among the speakers at the launch was Gary Ó Donnchadha, Chief Quality Officer at the Department of Education and Youth and nephew of the late author, who highlighted the purpose of the new edition, noting, “Noreen O’Brien’s objective… was to create a truly accessible celebration of Fr Gearóid’s amazing mind… and ultimately to invite each of us to pursue our own Quest and to be guided on that journey.”
Also speaking at the launch were Risteard Pierse, a nephew of the late author, and Dr Breda O’Dwyer, Head of the Department of Organisation and Professional Development, Munster Technological University, and former colleague of Fr Gearóid. Both shared personal reflections on Fr Gearóid’s curiosity, generosity and lasting influence as a teacher and thinker.
The book explores themes such as empathy, curiosity and the message of Jesus, while highlighting the importance of love at the heart of both philosophy and the Christian faith. A ‘Contents in Brief’ section helps guide readers through the key ideas, making the book easy to follow and engaging.
Quest for Meaning stands as a fitting tribute to Fr Gearóid Ó Donnchadha’s legacy and a call to live a meaningful and ethical life.
The book was produced with the support of JM Agency Publishing and Design and is available in local retailers in Cork as well as online.
