In a time when global tensions often overshadow messages of unity, first-time author Richard D. Greensfelder of Maryland has released a novel that blends religion, mystery, and suspense to address the modern world's moral challenges. Titled "50 Parachutes for 72 Virgins," the book presents a fictional scenario where a diverse group of religious leaders gathers in Chicago to seek peace, only to face a terrorist threat that tests their resolve.
The title stems from the number of clerics assembled for a peace summit aimed at restoring global conscience. Greensfelder explains that "50 parachutes" refers to a futuristic escape plan for the Sears Tower, known as "Plan Z," a last-resort evacuation strategy. The novel's plot centers on Archbishop Rooney, a blunt, old-school character who organizes the summit with 12 representatives each from Christian, Hebrew, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and atheist backgrounds. Set at the Sears Tower's Skydeck just before Christmas, the summit is intended as a first step toward world peace, but terrorists have other plans.
The book revisits timeless themes of good versus evil, love versus hate, and forgiveness versus revenge. Archbishop Rooney laments the erosion of traditional values, pointing to 1963 as a turning point when prayer was removed from public schools. He poses a rhetorical question to his aide, Fr. Tommy Schaefer: "Do you think 13 trillion 'The Lord's Prayers' would have made a difference? Damn right they could have!" Rooney's oft-repeated phrase, "Evil fills the void whenever God is pushed away," serves as a central warning.
Greensfelder, a retired Director of Admissions at a private school and a devout Catholic, aims to remind readers of the virtues that defined "The Good Old Days." He cites love, sound values, truth, forgiveness, charity, and helping others as essential for a safer world. "It's a call to move back closer to God where we all are safer," he said.
The novel's release comes amid ongoing debates about the role of religion in public life and the rise of global extremism. By framing the peace summit as a microcosm of interfaith dialogue, the book highlights the potential for cooperation but also the persistent dangers of intolerance. The inclusion of atheists among the summit attendees underscores a broader call for unity beyond religious boundaries.
Greensfelder's background includes a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Baltimore, where he played on a National Championship soccer team in 1975. He resides in Baltimore with his wife and children, and hopes his stories will inspire readers to be more caring and contribute to a better world.
"50 Parachutes for 72 Virgins" is available in paperback and e-book formats on Amazon. For those interested in exploring the book's themes further, additional information can be found at the author's website. The novel serves as a timely reminder that the choices societies make about faith and morality have profound implications for global security and human dignity.
