Brennan Manning was an American author and speaker, best known for his writings on spirituality and grace. Born on April 27, 1934, he served as a Franciscan priest before leaving the priesthood. His most famous book, *The Ragamuffin Gospel*, emphasizes the unconditional love of God and the importance of grace in the Christian faith. Throughout his life, Manning struggled with personal challenges, including alcoholism, which he openly discussed in his works. He traveled extensively, sharing his message of hope and acceptance. Manning passed away on April 12, 2013, leaving a lasting impact on many through his teachings and writings.