New book by former Chattanoogan Robin Hood features the Diocese of Nashville
The Diocese of Nashville has released a new photographic history book showcasing the 185-year legacy of architecture, service and impact of every church across the diocese’s Middle Tennessee market.
It features the original photography of Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Robin Hood, who formerly worked at the Chattanooga News-Free Press.
It also features the writing of his daughter, Farrar Hood Cusamato, and Whit Stiles.
The book, entitled Diocese of Nashville: A Family of Faith, was created and produced to honor the diocese’s 185th anniversary year. It was featured at the 2022 Southern Festival of Books in October.
“This is a beautiful tribute to our diocese’s parishes,” said The Most Reverend J. Mark Spalding, the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Nashville. “However, as beautiful as the images and writing are, the real beauty is knowing the good work, the spirit of community and the faith of the parishioners who fill every one of these churches. I am excited to honor them through this wonderful book.”
The diocese will offer the book for sale online through its website at dioceseofnashville.com/family-of-faith. It is also available at Saint Mary’s Bookstore and Parnassus Bookstore in Nashville. The 240-page book sells for $50, plus shipping and handling if ordered online.
Mr. Hood, whose work has been featured in major expositions and publications across the country over the past 40 years, won the Pulitzer Prize for photography while a newspaper photojournalist in Chattanooga. Ms. Cusamato and Mr. Stiles have authored numerous books, including one for the National Parks Conservation Association.
“The visits to each of these 60 churches provided some of the most enjoyable and personally rewarding photo sessions that I have ever done,” Mr. Hood said. “From buildings as grand as The Cathedral in Nashville to the small Saint Michael Church in Cedar Hill, I saw beauty, and I felt the legacy that embodies each of these buildings. I am very proud of this book.”