But Brother Pepe put reading on a pedestal; he was a Jesuit because the Jesuits had made him a reader and introduced him to Jesus, not necessarily in that order. It was best not to ask Pepe if reading or Jesus had saved him, or which one had saved him more.
In "Avenue of Mysteries," the character Brother Pepe views reading as a fundamental pursuit, elevating it to great importance in his life. As a Jesuit, he credits the Jesuit order not only with fostering his love for reading but also with his spiritual introduction to Jesus. This connection highlights the intertwining of literature and faith in Brother Pepe's worldview.
The narrative suggests a complexity in Brother Pepe's beliefs, where the influence of reading and religious faith is profound yet indistinguishable. Asking him whether reading or Jesus had a greater impact on his salvation may lead to a puzzling response, reflecting the deep bond between his intellectual and spiritual experiences.
