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J. Lee Grady, a local LaGrange author who has conducted missionary work in 36 countries, just released his seventh book, “Follow Me: Disciples Like Jesus Did.”

Grady is an ordained minister who served for many years as the editor of one of the nation’s largest Christian magazines, Charisma, based in Orlando, Florida. He moved to LaGrange in 2016.

He latest release is essentially a crash course in Christian mentoring, Grady said, and is designed to equip Christians in the art of mentoring. Grady’s book, he noted, is particularly targeted toward today’s younger generation, who Grady said may not be as in-tune to religion as some of the older generations. 

“Many youngest people today are walking away from their faith,” Grady said. “But I have found that when he invested our lives in young adults, and offer genuine love and mentoring, they are eager to follow and learn.”

Grady spends much of his time training the youngest generation for ministry, he said. His office is in the administration building of First Baptist Church on the Square where he and his wife, Deborah, are members.

Grady hosts many retreats and conferences about Christian discipleship in various regions of the United States.

“Some people are discouraged about the younger generation today,” Grady said. “But I see incredible potential. Today’s young adults are passionate, creative and eager to change society for the better. I want to see them surpass us.”

Grady is also the director of The Mordecai Project, an international humanitarian organization that focuses on aiding women from developing countries who suffer from abuse and marginalization. His overseas work is currently concentrated in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Congo, Tanzania, El Salvador, Colombia and Guatemala.

Combatting human trafficking runs in the family, Grady noted.

Grady’s oldest daughter, Margaret Grady Turner, lives in West Point and studies law at Georgia State University. She directs a non-profit organization, Illuminate Justice, which is dedicated to helping local communities end human trafficking.

Grady’s new book will be released on Amazon on Feb. 1. It will also be available at Target, Barnes & Noble, Thrift Books, Christian Book Distribution and other book suppliers.

Grady’s other books include “10 Lies Men Believe,” “The Truth Sets Women Free,” “The Holy Spirit Is Not for Sale” and “Set My Heart on Fire.”