We rejoin our hosts as they begin to outline JFK’s political career. We remember from the previous episode that Jack’s father, Joe Sr., has great ambition for Jack’s political future, and he uses his money and his influence to help Jack to political victory. In this episode, we follow Jack through his days in the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, and finally, the presidency.
Throughout these years, Jack still struggles with his health. He has another back surgery, and he’s the recipient of experimental treatment for Addison’s disease. Jack’s physical suffering is significant, but he remains bold and focused despite his illnesses.
Our hosts spend some time discussing what we know about Jack’s philanthropy during his political years. We learn of Jack’s gifts to Catholic Charities and to Boston churches, and we discover that Jack never took a salary while in political office. He, instead, donated it to charity. That said, is this philanthropy and faithfulness evidence enough to name JFK as a holy donor? Listen next week to hear what our hosts decide!
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Recommended reading:
"Jack: A Life Like No Other" by Geoffrey Perret
"An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy" by Robert Dallek
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