Book Reading and Discussion | Road Trip Detour: Exploring Life’s Journey

Former parishioner Rich Miller-Murphy shares a deeply personal story of loss, resilience, and the unexpected turns that can lead to a life of meaning and purpose.

In Road Trip Detour, Rich reflects on a difficult period in his life marked by the deaths of his longtime partner from AIDS, his mother from pancreatic cancer, and his grandfather following heart surgery, as well as serious health challenges of his own.

At the same time, he was concealing his sexuality out of fear of discrimination and the possible consequences for his career. Overwhelmed by grief, illness, and secrecy, Rich experienced a mental health crisis that led to two psychiatric hospitalizations. He credits the support of family, friends, and colleagues with helping him through those years.

His story ultimately became one of transformation. Later in life, Rich married his partner in 2004, and in 2007 they welcomed twins through a gestational carrier.

Road Trip Detour explores how even life’s most difficult detours can open the way to hope, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose—and how accepting help can sometimes change the course of a life.

Join us for a book reading and discussion with Rich Miller-Murphy as he reflects on his journey and the lessons he has found along the way.