When Mark is stopped for speeding in South Texas, he is broken, bruised, and poorly dressed. Officer Martinez comments that Mark doesn't look like any preacher he's ever seen. What role do appearances play in the novel? How do themes of reality and authenticity, versus a perfect exterior, develop through the story?

Mark and Amanda come from different familial backgrounds. How do their upbringings shape them as adults? How do their family lives affect their marriage?

Churches and sanctuaries are the setting for several scenes in the book. Compare the different settings, and what they might reveal about the story and the changes in the characters.

Mark's actions as a minister don't necessarily reflect the general impression of how a religious leader should behave. Do you think he makes a good minister, or a poor one?

Reflect on the scene where Mark and Dale serve communion to Ruby Weatherby in the nursing home. What do you think the author is trying to say?

What is the significance of the Brown Penny poem? How does it tie into both Mark's calling, and his feelings for Amanda?

Many journeys take place in the course of the novel. How are the various trips important to the book, and to the characters' development?

In the scene where Mark and Courtney are in her apartment after the carnival, what do you think happened? Whose "fault" was it, and was a real seduction taking place, or was it "a lust fog" like Mark described?

When Mark sees the humanity in Dale near the end of the novel, do you think he forgives him for all past wrongs? Does giving Dale some responsibility open Mark to future betrayal, or is it a smart move?

The rose garden in Mexico becomes a significant place for Amanda. What do the roses signify, and why do you think the author chose the exterior of a church for this scene?

Why do you think the author included a storm at the climax of the story? What might this say about Mark and Amanda's journey as people?

Mark and Amanda are dressed for the Fall Festival at the end of the novel. What do their costumes say about them as people, and how they've changed in the story?