Book Recommendations
-
► Apologetics
Many of you are in a location where a Catholic bookstore is not readily available. This makes it difficult to find any buy good books. In association with Amazon.com, will can help solve that problem for you. For your convenience, the books we recommend are listed alphabetically by the following topics:
► Biography
► Catholic Church
► Chastity Education
► Contemporary Issues
► C.S. Lewis Collection
► Family Life
► History
► Home Schooling
► Jesus
► Marriage
► Mary and the Saints
► Novels
► Sacred Scripture
► Spiritual Formation
► Suffering
► Theology -
Apologetics
► A Daily Defense: 365 Days (Plus One) to Becoming a Better Apologist, Jimmy Akin
In this book Jimmy Akin gives concise responses to the challenges Catholics often hear from skeptics and non-Catholics about God and religion.
► Behold Your Mother: A Biblical and Historical Defense of the Marian Doctrines, Tim Staples
This is the best book available defending the Marian beliefs of the Catholic Church. Its biblical analysis is first rate. It also gives pertinent citations and analysis from the Church Fathers and the Church’s teaching authority.
► Born Fundamentalist, Born Again Catholic, David Currie
This stirring account of Currie’s conversion to Catholicism is both very moving and insightful. He persuasively answers all the tough questions. Excellent.► By What Authority, Mark P. Shea
In this compelling book Mark Shea demonstrates how he discovered that Sacred Tradition is not only biblical, but that it safeguards the revelation of Jesus Christ. This is the best book available in English on this subject.► Catholicism and Fundamentalism, Karl Keating
This is a forceful and well researched response to the biblical challenges to the Catholic Church by fundamentalists. It is fast becoming a classic. The author is the founder of Catholic Answers and This Rock magazine.► Evangelism Is Not Enough, Thomas Howard
Professor Howard describes his deep love for Evangelicalism and his pilgrimage to the Roman Catholic Church through his discovery of authentic liturgical Christianity. This book will help Catholics develop a deeper appreciation of their beautiful liturgical heritage.► Grace and Justification: An Evangelical’s Guide to Catholic Beliefs, Stephen Wood
This book offers a clear, biblical and faithful guide for addressing common misunderstandings that evangelicals have about Catholic teaching on salvation.
► Mormonism, Peter Bartley
This book discusses the beliefs of Mormonism. In that discussion it seeks to answer the tough questions regarding this religion. How did it Originate? What are its claims and distinctive beliefs? To what extent, if at all, can Mormonism be considered a Christian religion? Is Mormonism reasonable?► Not By Faith Alone: The Biblical Evidence for the Catholic Doctrine of Justification, Robert A. Sungenis
Bob Sungenis became a Reformed Protestant at age 19. He earned his Masters Degree from Westminster Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing doctoral studies at the Maryvale Institute in Birmingham, England. He converted back to the Roman Catholic Church in 1992. This superbly documented and reasoned work is a definitive treatment on the subject of justification.► Not by Scripture Alone, Robert A. Sungenis
This outstanding study is the most complete treatment on the subject. This is required reading for anyone who wishes to seriously study the idea of Sola Scriptura.► Not Peace but a Sword: The Great Chasm Between Christianity and Islam, Robert Spencer
Most Christians know very little about Islam. This book clearly lays out the vast unbridgeable differences between Christianity and Islam.
► On Being Catholic, Thomas Howard
Ten years ago Thomas Howard converted to the Catholic Church. In his latest work, he presents the deeper meaning of Catholic piety, teaching, and spirituality. It is a beautiful explanation of the grandeur of the biblical Church.► A Protestant Pastor Looks at Mary, Charles Dickson
This excellent little book provides an excellent discussion of Marian doctrines by a scholarly Lutheran pastor. It is a particularly useful book to give to someone who doesn't understand devotion to Mary.► Reasons to Believe: How to Understand, Explain, and Defend the Catholic Faith, Scott Hahn
Relying on Sacred Scripture and Church history professor Hahn gives a clear and convincing defense of the Catholic Church as the Church Jesus founded.
► Rebuilding a Lost Faith, John Stoddard
This is a moving account of the author's spiritual odyssey. He recalls with moving detail his loss of faith as a Protestant seminary student and the journey that lead him to the Catholic Church.► Rome Sweet Home, Scott and Kimberly Hahn
This moving account relates the painful journey of Scott and Kimberly into the Catholic Church. They present the answers that many Protestants have about the Catholic Church.► Signs of Life: 40 Catholic Customs and their Biblical Roots, Scott Hahn
This useful book shows how Catholic popular piety is scripturally grounded. It explains how practices shape Catholic life and help Catholics grow in their love for the Lord.
► Salvation by Allegiance Alone: Rethinking Faith, Works, and the Gospel of Jesus the King, Matthew W. Bates
This book persuasively shows that saving faith or believing is not a mere assent debunking the bogus idea that we are saved by faith alone.
► Surprised by Truth, Patrick Madrid
This riveting book is an ideal book to give to someone who is sincerely questioning the Catholic faith. Each testimony is illustrative of the journey of sincere men and women trod who convert to Catholicism. I couldn’t put it down.► The Drama of Salvation: How God Rescues you from your Sins and Brings you to Eternal Life, Jimmy Akin
Jimmy uses his expertise in Sacred Scripture and the Church’s teaching to cut through the confusion on this important topic, providing the reader with a clear answers to the vital issues surrounding our salvation.
► The Real Story of Catholic History: Answering Twenty Centuries of Anti-Catholic Myths, Steve Weidenkopf
Steve addresses more than fifty of the most common lies about Catholic history, and he shows how to answer them simply and powerfully.
► This Is My Body, Mark P. Shea.
The discovery of the Bible’s clear teaching on Jesus’ real presence in the Eucharist is the most powerful reality that draws Protestants to Catholicism. In addition this little book will prove useful to Catholics in rediscovering this great mystery.
► Why We’re Catholic: Our Reasons for Faith, Hope, and Love, Trent Horn
Beginning with how we can know reality and ending with our hope of eternal life, this insightful book is a perfect way to help skeptics and seekers (or Catholics who need to firm up their faith) understand the evidence that bolsters our beliefs.Biography
► Apologia Pro Vita Suae, John Henry Newman
This is Cardinal Newman's spiritual autobiography in which he narrates his journey to Catholic Church.► The Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux: The Story of a Soul, translated by John Beevers
This remarkable young woman entered the Carmelite convent at the age of 15 and died at the age of 24. Pope St. Pius X called her “the greatest saint of modern times” and Pope St. John Paul II declared her to be a Doctor of the Church in 1999. In her remarkable autobiography, she explains her “little way” of performing ordinary actions with great love. She affirmed that God does not ask for “great deeds, but great love.”► Confessions, St. Augustine
This great saint narrates his personal journey to Christ. It is a classic of the spiritual life and a classic in Western literature.► The Quest for God; A Personal Pilgrimage, Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is a noted British historian. He draws heavily on his historical training in composing this compelling book which argues that as this bloody century draws to a close God has survived and is doing quite well, thank you.► Joan of Arc, Mark Twain
The masterful Twain presents a fascinating and historically accurate account of this great saint. He spent years in research and wrote that it was his favorite book. It may become yours too.► Milestones, Memoirs: 1927-1977, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger
This wonderful book is rich in humor, culture, passion, and love for God. Here is one of the most influential men in the Catholic Church describing how as a teenager he risked his life escaping a Nazi forced-labor camp. Then there is the moving story of the rejection of his doctoral dissertation. This is a wonderful little book.
Catholic Church
► A Shepherd Speaks, Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz
Bishop Bruskewitz of Lincoln, Nebraska is one of America's finest bishop-theologians. In this insightful book, he provides a penetrating look into the nature of the Church. It is a book that will both instruct and inspire.► Catechism of the Catholic Church
The new Catechism is a gift from the Holy Spirit to the Church. If you want to know what the Catholic Church authentically teaches, this is the book for you. The explanations are clear and unambiguous. The tone is profoundly spiritual.► Catechisms and Controversies: Religious Education in the Postconciliar Years, Michael Wrenn
This excellent work provides the best history of the distorted and often erroneous religious education following the Second Vatican Council. He documents the tragedy of the religious-educational establishment's failure to teach the Catholics properly and how they trained others to do the same.► to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
This is a compendium of the references cited in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It is an excellent study aid.► Does Catholicism Still Exist?, James V. Schall
Fr. Schall shows the relevancy of the Church in a culture that is becoming more paganistic with each passing day.► Encyclopedia of Catholic Doctrine
Russell Shaw is the general editor of his outstanding resource. He has brought together top Catholic contributors who precisely and faithfully proclaim the Catholic faith in clear, succinct articles. This work should be in every Catholic home. I highly recommend it.► Flawed Expectations: The Reception of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Michael Wrenn and Kenneth D. Whitehead
This is an insightful exposé of the attempts to submarine and the negative reception the Catechism received from various theologians, educators, and even bishops.
► The Battle for the American Church, George A. Kelly
This is a hard-hitting account of the wolves that are tearing apart the American church. However, according to Msgr. Kelly, the greatest blame lies at the feet of false shepherds, bishops who have permitted this to happen.► The Faith Explained, Leo J. Trese
This is a simple, clear presentation of what the Catholic Church believes and why she believes it.► The Snakebite Letters: Devilishly Devious Secrets for Subverting Society as Taught in Tempter's Training School, Peter Kreeft
Copying the genre of C. S. Lewis' The Screwtape Letters the insightful Kreeft provides an entertaining and penetrating analysis of Satan's attempts to damn mankind's soul.
Chastity Education
► Before You Were Born, Joan Lowery Nixon
This is a wonderful children's book that explains the first nine months of life.► Challenging Children to Chastity, H. Vernon Sattler
This is a wonderfully practical book for parents and educators. It gives practical ideas for instilling clear unequivocal moral values. It avoids the excesses and false philosophies that permeate the pernicious sex-ed that pervert the values and behavior of the young.► I Kissed Dating Goodbye, Joshua Harris
This young adult gives this insightful reflection on dating. He encourages young people to focus on discovering God's will in their lives rather than the dating game.► The Wonder of Sex, J. C. Willke
This is a practical book on how to teach children about sex. It also gives wise guidelines for parents on dating and other related areas.Contemporary Issues
► The Aryan Christ: The Secret Life of Carl Jung, Richard Noll Ph.D.
Richard Noll is a clinical psychologist and Lecturer in the History of Science at Harvard University. His earlier book on Jung, The Jung Cult, was named Best Book of Psychology published in 1994. The present work is important to Catholics because Jung is highly thought of in New Age circles and he is promoted at Catholic colleges and universities as well as in some high schools. Noll exposes Jung's anti-Semitism and anti-Christian principles. He also explores Jung's almost life-long involvement with the occult and his justification of polygamy and his use of adultery as a psychological technique.► At the Limits of Political Philosophy. From "Brilliant Errors" to Things of Uncommon Importance, James V. Schall
This is an uncommon book by an uncommon author. This is a serious exploration of what it means to be a truly human person living in civil society. Would that this book was required study for all politicians as well as those of us who elect them!► Battle for the American Church Revisited, Msgr. George Kelly
This is must reading for anyone who wants to understand the contemporary American church. It describes the infighting to change the Church's mission, nature, and Gospel. His description of the struggle between Rome and the National Conferences of Bishops as well as the opposition of authority by religious superiors, theologians, and educators is very informative and insightful.► Beyond Modernity: Reflection of a Post-Modern Catholic, Fr. George William Rutler
Fr. Rutler is a convert to Catholicism from the Anglican church. In this work, he shows the emptiness of modern man's attempt to build a society without God. He eloquently demonstrates the bankruptcy of modernity.► Blessed Are the Barren, Robert Marshal and Charles Donovan
This is an extensively documented, painstakingly written, and meticulously researched account of the rise, growth, and pervasive influence of Planned Parenthood in 20th century America.”
► The Cost of Abortion, Lawrence F. Roberge
The author is a Catholic research scientist who is a member of the Catholic Association of Scientists and Engineers, the Society of Catholic Social Scientists, and the New York Academy of Science. He is available for speaking engagements. Contact at 413-583-2233 or [email protected]. The focus of the book is the high price of abortion in terms of its economic and social costs. The data presented here is another wake-up call to end this national disgrace.► Defeating Darwinism, Philip E. Johnson
In this fine work, the author presents the claims of atheistic, undirected evolution, and clearly shows the flaws of their arguments and conclusions.► Degenerate Moderns, E. Michael Jones
This is must reading for anyone who wishes to understand our civilization. Jones carefully examines the lives of famous people whose ideas helped shape our culture to demonstrate the terrible havoc that is wrought when one rationalizes sexual misbehavior. When my oldest was home from college he read it in one sitting.► Is Jesus Coming Soon?, Ralph Martin
This little book provides a needed Catholic perspective on the question of Christ's "second coming." In an easy-to-read writing style, Martin solidly bases his inquiry on Sacred Scripture and Catholic theology.► Sex Education: The Final Plague, Randy Engel
Most Catholic parents are ignorant of the plague that may descend upon their children in the form of sex education. Before you allow your children to participate in any school sex education program you should read this book.► The Catholic Church at the End of an Age, Ralph Martin
The lay theologian, Ralph Martin, provides a timely analysis of contemporary Catholic life and shows how the penetrating power of the Holy Spirit is addressing that crisis.► Turning Point for Europe?, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger
Cardinal Ratzinger discusses the challenges and responsibilities that both the Church and society in Europe faced after the collapse of Marxism.► Ungodly Rage, Donna Steichen
This is a frightening book. Mrs. Steichen carefully documents the vengeful rage of Catholic feminists, mostly nuns, who are in revolt against spiritual authority. She also carefully details the movement’s defense of abortion and its connection with goddess religion, witchcraft, and New Age.
C.S. Lewis Collection
► The Chronicles of Narnia: The Complete Collection
These marvelous stories are a wonderful way to introduce Christianity to children as well as a love for reading.The Chronicles of Narnia - Separate Volumes:
► The Magician's Nephew
► Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe
► The Horse and the Boy
► Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia
► The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
► The Last Battle► The Screwtape Letters
The demon Screwtape writes to his nephew Wormwood with instructions on how to destroy men's souls.
Family Life
► The Catholic Alcoholic, Roy Barkley
Alcoholism is a terrible disease that destroys family life. This book incorporates the spiritual, physical and emotional elements necessary for developing a holistic approach to recovery. The integration of Catholic values gives this support book its greatest strength.► Father McBride's Teen Catechism, Alfred McBride
Here is a much-needed orthodox and pedagogically effective alternative to so many of the vague, ambiguous, misleading, and incomplete textbooks still available today. It is highly recommended for Catholic high schools, CCD/RCIA programs, and homeschooling.► Fatherless America, David Blankenhorn
For anyone who wants to understand the disintegration of the family in modern America, this book is must reading. This compelling book shows the impact of absentee fathers on our nation and how the ideal of fatherhood is under assault.► The New Dare to Discipline, Dr. James Dobson.
This is the revision of Dr. Dobson's best-selling classic. This is an excellent practical guide for parents on how to raise their children to become mature adults.
History
► Christianity and American Freemasonry, William J. Whalen
What is it about Freemasonry that would cause the eight Popes to condemn this secret fraternal society? This book provides the most complete answer to that question. It is carefully documented with facts drawn from: the three most noted experts on Masonry in America, Masonic ritual books, encyclopedias; and histories; and three former Masons, now active Catholics.► Deaconesses: An Historical Study, Aime Georges Martimort
Martimort presents an exhaustive and thoroughly researched work that examines the role of women deaconesses in the early Church. His treatment is both objective and readable.► Great Heresies, Hilaire Belloc
This is a wonderful historical summary of the major heresies that impacted the Church.► Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist, Brant Pitre
In this clear and beautifully presented book Dr. Pitre unlocks the secrets of the Last Supper by carefully developing key Old Testament passages that foreshadow the stunning revelation of Jesus’ sacrificial acts at the Last Supper, a profound misery made present at every Mass. His insightful exposition illustrates how the Jewish Scriptures anticipate their fulfillment in Jesus Christ.► The History of the Church, Eusebius
This is the only surviving account written by a contemporary of the first three hundred years of Christianity. It provides invaluable insight into the life, beliefs and practices of the early church.
► Women Mystics, Louis Bouyer, C.O.
This fine book offers penetrating insights into the lives and writings of five mystics who have played a critical role in the Church. They are: Hadeqijch of Antwerp, Teresa of Avila, Therese of Lisieux, Elizabeth of the Trinity, and Edith Stein.
Home Schooling
► Catholic Education: Homeward Bound, Kimberly Hahn and Mary Hasson
This is a resource-packed book that offers everything from lesson plans to ideas about the moral formation of one's children.► Catholic Home Schooling, Mary Kay Clark
This is a practical handbook for homeschooling written by one of the world’s leading authorities on the subject. Dr. Clark is the director of the Seton Home School. This book is filled with practical solutions to homeschooling problems.► Designing Your Own Classical Curriculum, Laura Berquist
In this outstanding work home educator Laura Berquist presents a modern curriculum based on the time-tested philosophy of the classical Trivium: grammar, logic and rhetoric. She covers grades K-12. In this, the third revised edition, she has included a much-expanded section for a high school curriculum and an updated list of resources for all grades.
Jesus
► Jesus the Teacher, Brian Grenier
This substantive work concentrates on Jesus' life and work from the aspect of Jesus as the teacher who came from God. In examining this facet of Jesus' mission he is clearly proclaimed as the Word, Wisdom incarnate, and the eternal Truth.► Wood of the Cradle, Wood of the Cross, Caryll Houselander
This is a reprinting of an outstanding work of great spiritual depth. Caryll Houselander is an English laywoman who is an outstanding writer possessing great spiritual depth. It is difficult to believe that anyone would not be profoundly moved by this wonderful book.
Marriage
► The Bible and Birth Control, Charles D. Provan
This small book is divided into three parts. Part I discusses nine reasons why the Bible prohibits birth control. Part II gives two alternative viewpoints and their rebuttals. Both parts were originally printed in the Christian News, which generally expresses a Lutheran outlook. Part III presents the overwhelming Protestant rejection of birth control before 1930.► Covenant of Life: Pope John Paul II on Sexuality, Marriage, and Family in the Modern World, Richard M. Hogan and John M. LeVoir
This a first-rate analysis of Pope John Paul II's teaching on marriage, the family, and human sexuality. It is written in a style that laymen can understand.► Intimate Bedfellows: Love, Sex and the Catholic Church, Thomas and Donna Finn
In this candid book, this couple discusses their journey toward an appreciation of the Church's teaching on human sexuality and marriage. Tough issues like pre-marital sex, cohabitation, contraception, and responsible parenting are appropriately addressed.► Love and Responsibility, Karol Wojtyla
This book was written before the author became Pope John Paul II. Written in his own unique style he views man as a whole, not just as a sexual being. This book is an eloquent defense of Catholic teaching on family life and sexual morality.► Marriage is for Keeps: Foundation for Christian Marriage, John F. Kippley
This is an excellent discussion of the Catholic concept of the covenant of marriage by the founder of the Couple to Couple League.► Marriage: The Rock on Which the Family is Built, William E. May
Fr. May is a noted theologian. He presents a compelling argument that marriage is the indispensable rock upon which the family and the whole of society depend.► Marriage Savers: Helping Your Friends and Family Avoid Divorce, Michael J. McManus
This is a practical book filled with resources that will help couples avoid divorce and build their marriages.► Marriage Savers: Helping Your Friends and Family Stay Married, Michael J. McManus
This is a practical book filled with resources that will help couples avoid divorce and build their marriages.
► Sex and the Marriage Covenant, John F. Kippley
This fine book by the founder of the Couple to Couple League provides a penetrating discussion of the issues regarding to human sexuality and marriage. The author marshals a persuasive defense of the Church’s teaching drawn from common sense, theology, and scripture.► Three to Get Married, Fulton J. Sheen
Bishop Sheen’s fine book discusses a broad range of marriage topics. He harmonizes each subject in a way that clearly shows the connection with the purpose of marriage.
Mary and the Saints
► Mary in the Mystery of the Covenant, Ignace de la Potterie
This world-class scholar gives a profound treatment of the theology surrounding the Blessed Virgin Mary. His work is solidly rooted in Sacred Scripture.► Mary Mirror of the Church, Raniero Cantalanessa
Fr. Cantalamessa is the preacher to the papal household. This is a beautiful reflection on Mary. Deeply based on the Bible, the book is readable, orthodox, scholarly, and ecumenical.► St. Dominic: The Grace of the Word, Guy Bedouelle, O.P.
Bedouelle is one of the foremost authorities on St. Dominic. This book is considered to be the most readable and concise spiritual biography of this great saint. It's a great addition to anyone's library.► The Life of Mary: As Seen by the Mystics, Raphael Brown
Drawn from the experiences of Venerable Anne Catherine Emmerich, St. Bridget of Sweden, Venerable Mary of Agreda, and St. Elizabeth of Schoenau, this book is a masterpiece that makes wonderful spiritual reading.
Novels
► Father Elijah: An Apocalypse, Michael D. O'Brien
This is a riveting story in a suspenseful 'Who Done It?' style that explains the state of the world and the Church. The best novel I have read in years. I couldn't put it down!
Sacred Scripture
► The Catholic Church and the Bible, Peter Stravinskas
This is a fine scriptural study guide. It is keyed to the new Catechism of the Catholic Church.► Eyewitnesses to Jesus, Carsten Peter Thiede and Matthew D'Ancona
This work of excellent scholarship is a book that most modern scripture scholars will love to hate. Why? The authors persuasively argue for early authorship of Matthew's Gospel which destroys much of the last one hundred years of fiction that was misnamed scriptural scholarship► A Father Who Keeps His Promises: God's Covenant Love in Scripture, Scott Hahn
In this easily readable book, Professor Hahn brings to life the meaning of covenant which is the "big picture' of Sacred Scripture. It provides the reader with insight into the whole of God's relationship with his people.► Genesis: Translation and Commentary, Robert Alter
This is a fine work that is worth reading by anyone interested in the first book of the Bible. Both the translation and the commentary are refreshing.► A Guide to the Bible, Antonio Fuentes
This is an excellent introduction with pithy explanations of each book in the Bible. It is a great study tool.► The Historical Reliability of the Gospels, Craig Blomberg
The author is an Evangelical Protestant. Like the Catholic Church, he is committed to defending biblical inerrancy. In this excellent work, he presents an outstanding defense of the historical integrity of the Gospels. This book is must reading that is highly recommended.► The Ignatius Bible
This is the Revised Standard Version (RSV) - Catholic edition. It is acclaimed as being the finest modern translation. It is the one translation that is accepted by Catholics, the Orthodox and Protestants.► Inside the Bible, Fr. Kenneth Baker, S.J.
This useful book gives an introduction to each of the 73 books of the Bible. Each introduction includes the time frame, author, theme, a summary of the content, comments about the context in which the book was written, the theology of the book, an outline, and finally a prayer taken from the book.► The Lord, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger
This is a wonderfully profound approach to understanding Christ through the gospels.► The Historical Reliability of the Gospels, Craig Blomberg
The author is an Evangelical Protestant. Like the Catholic Church, he is committed to defending biblical inerrancy. In this excellent work, he presents an outstanding defense of the historical integrity of the Gospels. This book is must reading that is highly recommended.► Making Senses Out of Scripture: Reading the Bible as the First Christians Did, Mark Shea
Mark Shea's latest book is designed to help readers understand the "Big Picture" of the Bible. It introduces the modern reader to the "fourfold senses" of Scripture, whwich was commonly understood in the early Church.
Spiritual Formation
► Abandonment to Divine Providence, Jean-Pierre de Caussade
This wonderful classic has guided Christians for over 250 years. It's a masterpiece of the spiritual life.► The Ascent of Mount Carmel, St. John of the Cross
Written by a great mystic, this classic work is an incomparable guide to the spiritual life.► Conversation with Christ, Peter Thomas Rohrbach.
Thanks to TAN this wonderful book is back in print. Rohrbach's clear explanation of St. Teresa of Avila's principles of mediation gives a step-by-step instruction on how to pray effectively. This excellent treatment is short, understandable, and easily put into practice. This book is highly recommended.► Courage to Be Chaste, Benedict J. Groeschel
Father Groeschel's treatment of this subject is excellent. His sensitive, persuasive presentation speaks to our age.► Crossing the Threshold of Hope, Pope John Paul II
► Dark Night of the Soul, St. John of the Cross
Many consider St. John of the Cross to be the greatest mystical theologian. This work is considered to be a spiritual masterpiece.► The Eucharist: Our Sanctification, Raniero Cantalames
This wonderful little book is both theologically profound and spiritually uplifting. It is a wonderful treatise on the Blessed Eucharist.► Gift and Mystery: On the Fiftieth Anniversary of My Priestly Ordination, Pope Paul II
► He and I, Gabrielle Bossis
Gabrielle was born in Nantes, France in 1874 and died in 1950 at the age of 76. She was a deeply prayerful single woman who was a nurse and a playwright. At the age of 62, while on a trip to Canada on the Ile de France, Jesus began a dialogue with Gabrielle that lasted until two weeks before her death. The first publication of this intimate conversation was a sensation because it showed that a life of intimacy with Christ was for everyone. It teaches us how to share with God. The book’s forward observed that “for a world starving for the comfort of God’s presence and the assurance of his existence, this book is a page-turner” (p. xi). Regarding our neglect, Jesus said to her, “There isn’t an orphan more forsaken than I” (p.4).► The Heart of Virtue. Lessons from Life and Literature Illustrating the Beauty and Value of Moral Character, Donald DeMarco
In this excellent work, Dr. DeMarco presents essays on twenty-eight virtues. Each essay begins with an illustration of someone who exemplified the particular virtue. What follows is an insightful commentary that one can easily apply to oneself.► The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a'Kempis
This marvelous 560-year-old masterpiece of the spiritual life offers new insight and deeper understanding with each reading.► Mother Theresa: In My Own Words, Mother Theresa
This is an illustrated collection of Mother Theresa's quotes, stories and prayers. Her steadfast faith and compassion are deeply moving.► The Practice of the Presence of God In Modern English, Brother Lawrence and Marshall Davis
This classic on the spiritual life was written over 300 years ago.► The Soul of the Apostate, Jean-Baptist Chautard
This marvelous book is must reading for anyone engaged in the active life.► Way of Perfection, St. Theresa of Avila
This is St. Theresa's simplest and most practical work. She shows her readers how to develop a mature, lasting love of prayer.
Suffering
► Arise From Darkness, Benedict J. Groeschel
Fr. Groeschel, the well-known author and psychologist, draws from his vast experience to give insight and suggestions on how to deal with fear, anxiety, hurt, and sadness.► Making Sense Out of Suffering, Peter Kreeft
This is a powerful and insightful guide on how to deal with suffering.► The Lord, Romano Guardini
This is a moving and enlightening presentation of Christ through the Gospel narratives.► The Sadness of Christ, St. Thomas More
This is a powerful meditation that is well worth reading.► The Suffering of Love: Christ's Descent into the Hell of Human Hopelessness, Regis Martin
This profound study is a multi-faceted examination of human suffering due to sin. One will find the book to be penetrating and thought-provoking.► When Bad Things Happen to Good People, Harold S. Kushner
Rabbi Kushner, speaks from the heart because he faced his own child's fatal illness. He draws his profound compassion from the Old Testament as he answers the question, "Why me?"► Where Is God When You Need Him?, Karl Schultz
This insightful work combines the story of Job with the teaching of Jesus in a way that is at the same time meditative and practical.
Theology
► Angels and Demons: What Do We Really Know About Them?, Peter Kreeft
This is an excellent treatment of the subject by a fine scholar and author.► Called to Communion: Understanding the Church Today, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger
With his usual precision, Cardinal Ratzinger provides a clear understanding of the issues that impact the contemporary Church.► Catholic Sexual Ethics, Ronald Lawler, Joseph Boyle, Jr., and William May
This book explains summarizes, and defends the teaching of the Catholic Church in an age that rationalizes sin.► Christ is the Answer: The Christ-Centered Teaching of Pope John Paul II, John Saward
What is the meaning of your life? What is the way to peace and happiness? To answer the concerns of the human heart Saward turns to Pope John Paul II and provides a wonderful synthesis of this thought.► The Gospel of Life (Evangelium Vitae), Pope John Paul II
This persuasive document is a spirited, faith-filled defense of human life. It should be must reading for everyone.► The Hidden Manna: A Theology of the Eucharist, James T. O'Connor
Fr. O'Connor gives an in-depth presentation of the belief in the Real Presence beginning with apostolic times. This study is rich both in its historical content and in its theological explanations.► The Holy Eucharist, Aidan Nichols, O.P.
Fr. Nichols is a professor of dogmatic and ecumenical theology at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas in Rome. This lucid exposition of how the theology of the Holy Eucharist developed and what it means to us today is well worth reading.► Humanae Vitae: A Generation Later, Janet E. Smith
Dr. Smith demonstrates why the teaching of Humanae Vitae was correct. This is well worth reading.
► The Lamb’s Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth, Scott Hahn
Using the Book of Revelation as his springboard, Dr. Hahn makes the vital connection between Jesus’ sacrifice on Calvary, the offering of the Mass on earth, and the celebration of the eternal supper of the Lamb in paradise. This concise little book truly makes the Mass come alive.► The Mass: A Biblical Prayer, Peter M. J. Stravinskas
This is a solid faith-filled commentary on the Mass from the biblical perspective. It is well worth reading.► A New Song for the Lord: Faith in Christ and Liturgy Today, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger
This is an insightful contribution to the theology of worship.► The Real Presence through the Ages, Michael L. Gaudoin-Parker
For twenty centuries Catholics have witnessed to their unwavering faith in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Eucharist. Fr. Gaudoin-Parker records this witness through their writings, music, and works of art.► The World's First Love, Archbishop Fulton F. Sheen
This is a particularly loving portrayal of Mary, showing how her life is an unfailing source of inspiration.