BALTIMORE, MD – Richard D. Greensfelder, a first-time author from Maryland, has released a new suspense novel titled "50 Parachutes for 72 Virgins," blending religion, spirituality, and mystery. The book, now available on Amazon in paperback and e-book formats, centers on a peace summit organized by Archbishop Rooney, a character who believes the world is losing its moral compass.
The title refers to the number of clerics – 12 each from Christian, Hebrew, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and Atheist traditions – assembled for a summit at the Sears Tower Skydeck in Chicago, just days before Christmas. The "50 parachutes" alludes to a futuristic escape plan dubbed "Plan Z," which the archbishop has devised in case the summit fails and a terrorist attack occurs. Greensfelder explains that the story is a classic tale of good versus evil, where love and forgiveness battle hate and revenge.
Archbishop Rooney, the protagonist, is described as an "old school, old hoot" who offers blunt critiques of modern society. He points to 1963, when prayer was banned from public schools, as a pivotal moment in the nation's spiritual decline. In the novel, Rooney asks his sidekick, Fr. Tommy Schaefer, "Do you think 13 trillion 'The Lord's Prayers' would have made a difference? Damn right they could have!" The archbishop's catchphrase, "Evil fills the void whenever God is pushed away," serves as a central theme.
The novel serves as a wake-up call for a country drifting from God, according to Greensfelder. "I have written the book to remind folks about what made the 'The Good Old Days,'" he said. "Love, sound values, the truth, forgiveness, charity, helping others, etc. are virtues that make this world a better place for our children and our children's children. It's a call to move back closer to God where we all are safer."
Greensfelder, a retired Director of Admissions at a private school, resides in Baltimore with his wife and children. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Baltimore, where he was part of a National Championship soccer team in 1975. A devout Catholic, he hopes his stories inspire readers to be more caring and contribute to a safer world.
The book's release comes at a time when global tensions and secularism are rising, making its themes particularly relevant. The novel's premise – uniting diverse religious leaders to address world issues – resonates with ongoing interfaith dialogues and the search for common ground in a polarized society. For business and technology leaders, the book underscores the importance of ethical leadership and the potential consequences of neglecting moral values in decision-making. The title itself, with its provocative reference to the 72 virgins, challenges readers to confront stereotypes and engage in deeper conversations about faith and extremism.
Available at Amazon, the novel is poised to spark discussion among readers interested in the intersection of spirituality, global affairs, and human resilience. As the world grapples with complex challenges, Greensfelder's narrative offers a fictional yet thought-provoking perspective on the power of collective conscience.
