Honoring the Beloved Sam, The Earless, Fearless Airedale, Oct. 3

Twenty years ago, readers across the world fell in love with Sam Houston, the fearless, earless Airedale who miraculously survived a housefire and went on to become a wounded healer, spiritual companion and canine celebrity.

This year, Sam’s gospel returns in a newly revised version, The Gospel According to Sam: Animal Stories for the Soul (20th Anniversary Edition) by Father Bill Miller. The updated book, a heartwarming and thought-provoking collection of stories is set to release at the quaint Haw Creek Chapel (Saint Cecilia’s) in Henkel Square in Round Top on Friday, Oct. 3 at 5:45 p.m.

The expanded version invites dog lovers and book lovers on an unforgettable emotional journey, packed with brand-new stories that will inspire laughter, tears, and a renewal of faith. The author, a charismatic Episcopalian priest, has also captured the hearts of readers across the country with his books The Last Howlelujah and The Beer Drinker’s Guide to God. As a passionate dog lover, Miller has rescued and raised eight dogs and founded an animal charity.

According to Academy Award-nominated screenwriter (Apollo 13, Castaway) and Texas Monthly founding editor William Broyles, Jr: “Miller is a magician with language. His stories are gateways into the deep mysteries of love, life, and death.”

Miller will read new stories about Sam and other animals who taught him profound lessons and spiritual truths. A reception and book signing (with Sam’s pawprint) will follow live music with acclaimed musicians Paul English, Joey McGee, Ellen Melissa Story, Keenan-Keaton Payne, and Stephen Mansolo.

This event is free and open to the public.

Saint Cecilia’s is a creative spiritual community in Round Top that celebrates the arts as pathways to the Divine.

William Miller is an Episcopal priest, author, and native Texan who has also lived in Chicago, Kauai, and New Orleans. He founded Saint Cecilia’s Round Top as well as four music festivals. He previously owned the music venue Padre’s in Marfa.