Elmer Gantry Chapter 17

In which a young theological graduate, Frank Shallard, embarks on his first pastoral duties feeling beset by doubts about the efficacy and sincerity of the ministry, yet finds solace and guidance in the steady presence of the gentle and mystic Methodist Reverend Pengilly. As Frank wrestles with his conscience and the skepticism of working-class townsfolk, he is drawn into a circle of liberal thinkers and encounters the brash confidence of Elmer Gantry, setting him on a wavering path between faith and self-doubt.