Unexpected Parallels describes newly-discovered links between the revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith (1805-1844) and the teachings and experiences of Eastern Orthodox saints and monks. Many of these connections are seen in the dates and themes of Joseph's revelations in The Doctrine and Covenants ("D&C") and in the corresponding feast dates on the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, which has its origins in the early centuries AD. Yet, there is no plausible way that Joseph Smith writing or dictating revelations in the 1830s-40s could have known of these parallels. Some of the links are simply stunning!

Unexpected Parallels also includes chapters that promote understanding and appreciation for Eastern Orthodoxy among non-Orthodox readers. Several chapters give overviews of the lives of important saints, particularly in the Russian Orthodox tradition. This story is relevant for all Christians. With these seemingly-providential connection points between two very different Christian churches, the collective Christian story of faith rings truer, not less true. This may be a very important consideration in a world where traditional church attendance is declining in many countries. "