God's Door Keepers - Padre Pio, Solanus Casey and Andre Bessette

By Joel Schorn. This book begins by giving a short biography of Andre Bessette. He is a saint who I wasn't familiar with until I read this book. Brother Andre was a Holy Cross Brother and Canadian saint. Next, Solanus Casey, a Capuchin priest from the Midwest, and lastly, the beloved Padre Pio.

Each of these saints had humble beginnings and were deemed not the brightest. Hence, the first two were literally doorkeepers and Padre Pio was similarly in one of the lowest jobs in his order. Yet these saints were exalted by God and many healings and miracles are attributed to each. Read what they had in common and why God blessed them. I especially enjoyed reading about Padre Pio.

At the end of the book there are the feast days and ecclesiastically approved prayers for each of these saints. This book is a truly interesting and humbling read. Soft cover, 151 pages.

Called By Name

The Inspiring Stories of 12 Men Who Became Priests. By Jerry Usher and Christine Mugridge. This book tells the path that these wonderful priests took to the priesthood. Some of the stories will surprise you, some will enthrall you, but all will make you remember what a holy calling the priesthood is! Some of the priests are famous and recognizable, like Fr. Benedict Groeschel (I always wanted to know his story), Fr. Frank Pavone (known for his Pro-Life work), Fr. Kevin Scanlon, and His Eminence John Cardinal Foley. All these stories show the grace and Hand of God in their lives and reminded me to reflect on the "God Story" in my own life. In addition, this book tells the very nature of these wonderful priests. Soft cover, 287 pages.

And God Said, "PLAY BALL!"

Amusing and Thought-Provoking Parallels Between the Bible and Baseball. By Gary Graf. This is a great book to give a baseball fan for Father's Day, or any day. Since I'm a football fan (the author has one for football, too) I asked an "expert" to help me by also reading this book. My first impression was favorable but my baseball-fan-friend loved it! It is my opinion that the Bible part of the book is mostly "tongue in cheek." It did have some great passages and I saw the author's point in regard to the similarity of the Bible and baseball. The baseball part of the book was fantastic. I knew little about baseball, especially its early beginnings, so I found it very interesting, informative, and honest. I'll give this book as a gift to all baseball fans I know! It's a fun read. Soft cover, 175 pages.

A Survivor From The Lost Generation Of Catholics

By Traci Matheu. Basically, it is a reconversion story of Traci Matheu and her family. However, it is so much more. Traci is an incredibly talented person. I met her when she sent us beautiful pictures of Medjugorje she had taken and sold as cards. Then she sent the magazine her story and it was printed. Her book is great. I was at first put-off by the title but don't let it fool you. Traci begins by giving you background about herself and what brought her back to the Catholic Church. Then you travel through the rest of the book saying, "Yes, Yes, Yes!".

She begins by getting to know God at His very core - God is Love. In her quest, she starts with the Declaration of Independence and gives examples where we, in this country, are off track. She talks about her own children and how her quest for God impacted them and she gives astute observations on parents and children. She talks about her marriage and commitment from a Biblical and the Catechism's point of view. She shares her faith and so much more. I found myself wanting to give this book to my adult children with a sticker on the front that says, "RIGHT ON!". Soft cover, 185 pages.

St. Therese, A Treasured Love Story

By Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Not only will you get to see St. Therese (a doctor of the Church and spiritual leader) in a unique way through the eyes of Fulton Sheen but you will get to know the spiritual, funny and loving Fulton Sheen as well.

This book was written from the talks given by Archbishop Fulton Sheen on the 100th Anniversary of St. Therese's birth. It begins with the autobiography of both Fulton Sheen and St. Therese of Lisieux.

Classic Fulton Sheen, he always gives examples to go along with the point he is trying to make. Sometimes the examples are funny, sometimes profound, but always thought provoking. The whole book is truly wonderful and one of my favorite parts is Fulton Sheen's final farewell written to a friend three days before he died, which for me sums up the incredible life and legacy this wonderful priest left us all. With eleven pages of photos of St. Therese and Fulton Sheen this book is a must have for your home and to give as a gift. Hard cover, 182 pages.

Amazing Grace For Families

101 Stories of Faith Hope, Inspiration and Humor By Jeff Cavins, Matthew Pinto and Patti Armstrong. This is the next book in the Amazing Grace Series (You may remember Amazing Grace for Mothers, Fathers, Catholic Heart, Married Couples and Those who are Suffering), and in my opinion the best one yet.

In a time when so many families are not staying together, this book tells of the true meaning of family in all its love, wisdom, hope, humor, faithfulness, character, and strength.

These short easy to read, amazing stories that will make you laugh, cry and be truly thankful for all the families in your life. These stories are so good I guarantee you will be sharing the book with others. Soft cover, 325 pages.

The Heart Of A Saint

Ten Ways To Grow Closer To God By Bert Ghezzi. Bert Ghezzi, who has written more saints books than any author I know of, has selected 10 saints to show us that we too can become saints, just as they did.

Some of the ten you may already know, like Pope John Paul II, and some you may not know, like Saint Roque Gonzalez and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, all will help you to grow closer to God after reading about them. These saints all made the decision to give their hearts whole-heartedly to God- some through prayer, service, social justice, or love of neighbor. Bert Ghezzi tells us that we too can become saints by giving ourselves to God. After each story Bert writes a section called Think, Act and Pray, to reflect on the message of the saint's life and how it can be applied to your own life.

This is a great book that will help you grow spiritually. Hard cover, 168 pages.

How To Forgive Yourself And Others

Steps To Reconciliation By Father Eamon Tobin. I chose this book because it is a great book for Lent and for those who find it hard to forgive (like me).

This book clarifies what forgiveness is and what it is not. It also names ten major obstacles to the process of forgiveness (very helpful for me). It helps us to pray to forgive even if it is God or ourselves that we need to forgive. It also helps with the difficult questions like what about injustice? Why forgive someone who has no remorse? What can I do in an ongoing abusive situation? And so much more! Soft cover, 82 pages.

Questions and Answers About Your Journey To God

By Father Benedict Groeschel. The book is in a question and answer format in Fr. Groeschel's direct and easy to understand style.

Most of the book explains the stages of a spiritual life (with chart). The questions are from a large group of people whom Fr. Groeschel asked to submit questions they most wanted to know about their spiritual life's journey.

This book is a great resource for judging where you are in your own journey to God (which is life long). At the end of the book Fr. Groeschel gives an excellent list of the spiritual books he recommends to help with the spiritual journey. In this day and age we need this book! Soft cover, 127 pages.

The Catholic Teen Bible - Prove It!

This Bible is part of the Prove it series that I love for teens (see the summer magazine book reviews). What makes this different from other bibles for teens are the pages interspersed throughout the bible written by Amy Wellborn. Amy Wellborn has written many books and taught religion at the high school level for nine years.

Some of the subjects that Amy writes about are: "Does God exist?, Prayer, What is a miracle?, Why go to church?, What about war?" and many more great subjects that teens want to know about. At the end of the bible it lists the Ten Commandments, Gifts of the Holy Spirit, How to say the rosary, the Stations of the Cross, and many prayers. Soft cover, 1,400 pages.

The Fruits of Medjugorje - Stories of True and Lasting Conversion

By Elizabeth Ficocelli. This is a truly wonderful book about the conversions of people who have gone or heard about Medjugorje. Each story is better than the one before. The stories are amazing in the diversity of people that Medjugorje has converted from young adults to prisoners to older men and women, even priests. I marveled at the goodness of Jesus and Mary with each story. These stories remind us that we are all in need of conversion and that we are the children of Mary and what a great mother she is to us all! Our Lord advises us that by the fruits you shall know them - by these conversion stories you will know that the fruits of Medjugorje are good. Soft cover, 239 pages.

Paper Bag Prayers - Finding God in Little Things Any Time, Any Place

By Bernadette McCarver Snyder. This is a cute little book of prayer about taking ordinary things in life and making a prayerful connection. With a little laugh and prayer you can see God in all things (even in a cotton swab and a pair of scissors). The idea of the book is that each item used in prayer is small enough to fit in a paper bag, hence the title of the book. This book gave me a whole new perspective on the small and mundane "things" that we all take for granted in our life. Each chapter has a short story and a prayer that fits wonderfully with each item.

This is just a cute, short and funny uplifting, unusual prayer book that you will love - especially if you are as busy as I am! Soft cover, 95 pages.

NEW! Ann, The Lay Apostle's Booklet

There are two sections, the first: Presence of Obedience, the second: Reflections on the Priesthood. Reading the one on obedience it seemed, at first, it was for those who criticize some laws of the Church, which didn't apply to us. We read on and bingo, there we were, in our prideful arrogance! Yes, it was for us. Reflections on the priesthood is so beautiful and affirming for our priests that you'll want to give one to every priest you know. How tenderly Our Lord and Our Lady love them.

NEW! Ann's Volumes On CD's

Have you ever cried while exercising- not from pain but from the beautiful words you're listening to? That's what may happen to you, too, if you exercise while listening to these messages of Jesus from Volume Two and Volume Four. A priest reads them in his wonderful Irish voice. Just as when you read the volumes you find something new each time, so, too, you'll discover new insights each time you listen to them being read. If you're a softy, grab a tissue before turning them on. Jesus words are so very tender and loving.

Jesus Of Nazareth

By Joseph Ratzinger, Pope Benedict XVI. This is Benedict XIV's first book written since he became Pope. Using the historical/critical method, Pope Benedict sheds new perspective on Jesus, God, and the Faith. At the core of this book is the question of why Jesus came - to show us God the Father.

Pope Benedict traces the Father through the Old and New Testaments, explaining God the Father's relationship to Jesus and to us. (I especially like the chapter on the "Our Father.") My brief description here of what this book is about is only a small portion of the contents. There is so much more. This is not a book that will be read quickly, because of its depth. The thought-provoking words and ideas of Jesus of Nazareth are truly profound. Many times I had to put the book down to ponder the incredible insights I had just read. I consider this a great work of literature by our new Pope. I think you will too. Hardcover, 373 pages.

Left To Tell

By Immaculee Ilibagiza, with Steve Erwin. Her book is on the best seller list. This is an account of Immaculee's incredible survival of the Rwandan genocide. In 1994, the death of the Hutu president started the three month killing of one million Tutsi, including most of Immaculee's family, friends, and neighbors. Immaculee hid in a small bathroom with seven other women for three months, with little food or water, knowing the murderers were looking for her, to rape, torture, and kill her.

You will come to realize God's unfailing protection and unconditional love. It is amazing to read her transformation in faith and the maturing of the only thing she had left - total trust in God. An added bonus is her deep Catholic faith presented to the whole world on these pages.

Most amazing to me is Immaculee's change from hatred to forgiveness, through God's grace, of the Hutus who killed her family. This book strengthened my belief in God, showed me how insignificant my petty quarrels and hurts can be, and made me take a good look at myself. Softcover, 210 pages.

Prove It! GOD

By Amy Wellborn. This book is the first of five of the PROVE IT series for teens. I love these books because when my children became teens they questioned everything! (Why do I have to go to Church?

Why do I have a curfew? and on and on) Written in small, quick, and easy to read chapters, with a few cool cartoons, it answers the questions that teens ask most. The chapter's names are amusing as well as highly pertinent. For example: "I Don't Believe in God Because People Do Such Horrible Things in the Name of Religion."

Written in a language and style that will hold teen's interest (You know that God is not the lead singer of Nirvana, right?) At the end of each chapter is a section called, "So … Our Point is …" which really goes to the heart of the matter, without the cute banter. With excellent examples and quotes to bring home the point (Truth is truth so either it's true or false and that includes God.) this book taught me to approach the questions of my young adult children differently.

It's a great resource for Religious Education teachers and parents as well. Others in this series include: "Prove It! Jesus," "Prove It! Church," "Prove It! Prayer," and "Prove It! You." Softcover, 113 pages.

Reasons To Believe

How to Understand, Explain, and Defend the Catholic Faith. By Scott Hahn. This is Scott Hahn at his best apologetics! He uses his own experiences, history, Scripture, and even natural law to help readers understand, explain, defend and live the Catholic faith. As always, Scott Hahn's writing is clear, concise, and written in a style that is interesting and easy to understand.

At the heart of this book is Scott's examination of the ten "keys to the kingdom" - the characteristics of the Church clearly evident in the Scriptures. For all Scott Hahn fans, this is a must read book! Hardcover, 227 pages.

The Legacy of John Paul II, Images & Memories

By Joseph Ratzinger. How great it is to have a book about Pope John Paul II written by the current Pope Benedict XVI. The then Cardinal Ratzinger pays tribute to his predecessor, mentor, and friend of 25 years.

The many, many beautiful photographs by Giancarlo Giuliani (some never published before), along with Pope Benedict’s insights, make this an incredible book. Each photo is documented as to the time and place it was taken and all are truly breathtaking. Some of my favorites depict Pope John Paul with heads of states, other religious (I especially like the one with Mother Teresa), Ali Agca, and just ordinary people (the ones with the children he loved so much are especially wonderful). There is even one where he is in the hospital bed.

This book will make you laugh, cry, but most of all remember how much John Paul II was loved; how holy and humble he was. I always make available to you the books I love and I truly love this book! Hardcover, 114 page.

Mother Angelica’s Little Book of Life Lessons and Everyday Spirituality

By Raymond Arroyo. Anyone who has watched the Catholic Television station EWTN, knows Mother Angelica. She began EWTN 25 years ago with her wonderful sense of humor, her profound wisdom, and her love of God. If you’ve watched her, you know already what a good book this is.

It includes original prayers from Mother Angelica’s private collection. It also includes her wisdom in answering 25 years of questions live, from a hurting people who called in on her television program. Her deep love of Jesus and her incredible spirit come through in the practical, straightforward, no-nonsense, loving, passionate, sometimes funny, down to earth, sensible advice she gives.

This book can be used as a daily devotional or for answers to questions or problems you may have. Mother uses short examples to make her point, in an easy to understand way. I thank Raymond Arrayo for putting together a book of Mother’s life lessons that I will always treasure. Hardcover, 220 pages.

Praying in the Presence of Our Lord with the Saints

By Fr. Benedict Groeschel and James Monti. This is a good little book to use during Adoration or any time to enhance your prayer life and your relationships with the saints. Fr. Benedict puts it the best when he tells you when you are at Adoration what to do after you kneel down. He begins the book by giving you five easy steps. Next, each section gives prayers and meditations with a saint or a blessed (it gives the saint’s station in life plus country and date of birth).

I like this book because when I took it to Adoration it truly gave me a meditation to pray about and apply to my life. I felt Jesus’ hand in what touched my heart in the passage I was reading. It’s a great tool for Adoration and to come closer to Jesus with the help of the saints, many of whom were unknown to me before now. Soft cover, 145 pages.

New Saint Joseph People’s Prayer Book

This is a good old-fashioned prayer book. You may remember the St. Joseph Missal from your childhood. My mother used it everyday of her life. The cover of this prayer book is a sturdy plastic, necessary if you spill your coffee in the morning. It also has a ribbon to mark your place or favorite prayer.

Some of the wonderful and meaningful prayers are from the Bible, indulgences, prayers for special occasions, prayers for relationships, blessings, saints, prayers for self and family, and others too numerous to list. If you are looking for a traditional and excellent prayer book, this is the one for you. Soft cover, 1,050 pages.

HEAVEN SPEAKS

Our Lord, Our Lady, and several of the saints have dictated more messages to Ann, the lay apostle.

These new words touch the heart and the soul as much, if not more, than the others already in print. Listen, for example, to Our Lord’s words in the booklet, Heaven Speaks To Those Who Experience Tragedy: “When you feel a sense of shock, a sense of stunning upset in your life, you must look for Me. I am there. I do not remain with My children, day after day, and then abandon them when they most need my support … I, Myself, am the most sympathic listener when it comes to these heartfelt cries of anguish. You see, I made these cries Myself … No. You will not be left to walk alone through this tragedy.”

YOU MAY ORDER ONE OR ALL OF THESE BOOKLETS. Each booklet is only $2.00 plus $0.75 shipping.

St. Bridget Twelve Year Prayers on Jesus’ Wounds and Precious Blood

Now 26,000 SOLD! The orders continue to flood in. People order one and then order 10 or 25 more for friends. For those of you who are new subscribers, Jesus gives promises to the soul who prays them: 1. The soul who prays them suffers no Purgatory. 2. Will be accepted among the Martyrs, as though they had spilled their blood for their faith. 3. Can chose three others whom Jesus will then keep in a state of grace sufficient to become holy. 4. Will be made conscious of their death one month in advance. 5. No one in the four successive generations of the soul who prays them will be lost.

Seven prayers to Mary on her seven sorrows are also included, with those great promises. Saying the twelve Jesus prayers and the seven Mary prayers takes only ten minutes. Pray them for your children and grandchildren, to save their souls. Click Here for More Info!

This lovely flyer is 17.5" wide and 8.5" deep. It comes folded in four panels and is laminated for durability.

MIRACLES OF JOHN PAUL II, BY PAWEL ZUCHNIEWICZ

This book was originally written in Polish, then translated into English because of overwhelming acclaim. Pawel Zuchniewicz traveled extensively with John Paul II (to all the World Youth Days and more). The book is an incredible, compelling witness to the power of prayer and the miracles that have occurred through the intercession of Pope John Paul II. The accounts of healings will make you laugh and cry, but most of all will show you the great love Our Lord has for John Paul II and all of us.

A great number of the healing stories are about children, which is understandable because of John Paul's love for them. When he was told of the healing of a child he may have touched, he very humbly always replied, "God and faith healed them."

The added bonus of the beautiful color pictures makes this the very best book I've read in the past year. You will truly want it in your library and for future generations.

Hardcover, 194 pages.

101 INSPIRATIONAL STORIES OF THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

By Sister Patricia Proctor. This is the fourth book in the series; you may remember the ones on the Eucharist, Rosary, and Priesthood. The book is about the incredible personal stories that people shared with Sr. Patricia about the healing, forgiveness, comfort, and love of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). It tells what Reconciliation is and what it is not, with a wonderful clear and concise understanding of this sacrament, through the experiences of people, with all their doubts and frailties. I believe this book will change your view of Reconciliation forever!

After reading these wonderful stories I began to love the Sacrament of Reconciliation and began going weekly. At the end of the book it gives a "Simple Tutorial for making a good Confession" and an excellent question and answer section that will put aside any concerns regarding this wonderful sacrament.

With each of Sr. Patricia's books that I read and review for this magazine, I believe she cannot do as well again, yet this is the best yet. Softcover, 270 pages.

GUARDIAN ANGELS, TRUE STORIES OF ANSWERED PRAYERS

By Joan Wester Anderson. This is a book about prayer and the miracles that happen when we pray. Joan Wester Anderson has written many books about angels and, in my opinion, this is one of her best. These easy-to-read short stories begin with a lovely quote and tell a true story of prayer, an angel, or a miracle. You will cry, find hope, and especially be convinced that prayer changes things and that God is in control!

At the end of the book, Joan provides discussion questions which are thought provoking. In a world of indifference, violence, and a "me" attitude, Guardian Angels will restore hope and faith again. Soft cover, 221 pages.

AMAZING GRACE FOR FATHERS, 75 Stories of Faith, Hope, and Humor

By Jeff Cavins, Matthew Pinto, Mark and Patti Armstrong. This is the fourth book in the Amazing Grace series. You may remember the ones for Mothers, Catholic Hearts, and Those who Suffer, previously in this series.

This one is a collection of extraordinary short stories about fathers. All the books in the series are so wonderful that I knew I had to review this one as well. However, I struggled, because even though my dad died 18 years ago, I miss him more every day. The book sat on my desk for weeks before I could begin reading. Once I started, however, I was glad I did. I found joy, memories, and much more. For me, it was healing, and for you whose fathers are living, it will be a great birthday, Christmas, or Father's Day gift (with passages highlighted or love notes inside that pertain to your father, if you so choose).

This book will help you to reconnect with and appreciate the father and father figures in your life. Soft cover, 295 pages.

UNITED STATES CATHOLIC CATECHISM FOR ADULTS

By United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The United States Catholic Catechism for adults is an adaptation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The text follows the Catechism's arrangement of the content: The Creed, The Sacraments, Moral Life and Prayer. (Latin and Eastern Churches included)

The structure of each chapter is:
1. Story or lesson of faith
2. Teaching: Its foundation and application
3. Sidebars
4. Relationship of Catholic teaching to the Culture
5. Questions for discussion
6. Doctrinal Statements
7. Meditation and Prayer

I love the practical application of this learning tool. The stories are excellent for bringing home the point to be made, starting with Bishop Carroll, the first bishop of the United States. Soft cover, 637 pages.

IN MY OWN WORDS

By Pope Benedict XVI. The quotes taken from the Pope's speeches, lectures, homilies, letters, and prayers are particularly meaningful in this time of uncertainty. Each quote, short and to the point, tells the reader about the heart, mind, and direction of this new Pope. It also tells the direction and vision for his pontificate and the world.

This book begins with a very short biography of Pope Benedict, and then gives the quotes (some like short stories) according to subjects. Some of the subjects are: Truth, Culture, Christian Unity, Ministry, Family and Youth, and Mary. The place each quote was spoken is given; for example, World Youth Day and the date. Pope Benedict has some amazing things to say in some of the most amazing places! Hardcover, 108 pages.

EVERY DAY IS A GIFT

I chose this book because it is one of my all time favorites. A green plastic-like, non-spill cover hides this plain and simple prayer tool. A short scripture verse, a short reflection, and a prayer for each day of the year with an upbeat meditation, helps me to begin each day in a thoughtful, positive, prayerful way (even when I'm rushed or not feeling prayerful or positive.) Each day something will stay in my mind to reflect on, whether it is a quote by a saint, the bible verse, or a word or phrase in the wonderful meditations, to keep me centered on God. I love this book because it helps me remember that every day is truly a gift from God. Soft cover, 190 pages.

THE MIST OF MERCY

NEW!! This long awaited NEW book by Anne, a lay apostle, on the subject of Purgatory has just been released. It also has a section on spiritual warfare. Anne relates her experience as she recalls trips to the very depth of Purgatory with Jesus at her side. Most interesting is her description of the many levels of Purgatory as an incredible display of God's mercy to souls. You won't be able to put this book down once you begin reading. It will change the way you live your life.

What do you think people feel most in Purgatory? Remorse?

No! Anne says what they feel most is security.

In the section on spiritual warfare, Anne gives insights into recognizing the seemingly innocent traps that the evil one places in our way as we climb the mountain of holiness. These are indispensable, heaven-sent words of wisdom. Every Catholic, every Christian, and hopefully every non-Christian who reads this book will long remember and treasure its words. Softcover, 220 pages.

COMPENDIUM - CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

This work, by a commission of bishops appointed by Pope John Paul II, over which Benedict XVI (then Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger) presided, is a synthesis of the Cathechism of the Catholic Church, which contains all the essential and fundamental elements of our faith.

The Compendium was written to make the Catechism more widely known and understood. Using reference numbers, it helps readers to refer back to the Cathechism, if needed.

There are four parts to the Compendium:
1. Profession of Faith
2. Celebration of Christian Mystery
3. Life in Christ
4. Christian Prayer

I love the format of the Compendium, which is question and answer (called dialogue format). This format was chosen for better understanding and easier memorization.

Included throughout the text are beautiful artistic images and pictures, which make it not only informative but a work of art. Lastly, there are traditional Catholic prayers, both in Latin and English, and a section called Formulas of Catholic Doctrine, which includes the Beatitudes, Five Precepts of the Church, Seven Corporal Works of Mercy, Gifts of the Holy Spirit, and more. Soft cover or hardcover, 204 pages.

WHY DO WE BELIEVE? Strengthening your Faith in Christ

By Fr. Benedict Groeschel. This book could have been titled simply Faith! It concerns itself with Faith in God, Faith in Christ, Faith in the Church. If you have any doubts or questions about faith, this is the book for you.

I love the way Fr. Groeschel writes. He gives a statement, explains it in an easy to understand way, and then gives an example (you'll love his examples).

With my own young adult children I used the part about why we should go to Church. "Jesus didn't establish a T.V. program. He established a Church." This is a great book, short and to the point.

GOD IS LOVE

Deus Caritas Est. Encyclical Letter of the Supreme Pontiff Benedict XVI. This is the very first encyclical of our new Pope Benedict XVI. How fitting that his first one is on love!

In this troubled world, Pope Benedict's Encyclical goes right to the heart of the matter. He begins by telling us what love is and what love isn't. Next, he explains about the love of Jesus Christ/God and the Church, and lastly he speaks of love and charity within community and within the Church.

His style of writing is much different from John Paul II's style, and for the average Catholic, is more easily understood. You will get to know something of the personality and style of our new Pope by reading this, his first encyclical.

THE QUEEN OF PEACE VISITS MEDJUGORJE

By Father Joseph A. Pelletier, A.A. This book was one of the first written in English on Medjugorje and Father Pelletier, now deceased, used Stan and Margie Karminski's videos, pictures, and interviews with the visionaries. The Karminskis went with Father Pelletier to the holy village and later helped with the book. Softcover, 265 pages.

PADRE PIO IN AMERICA

By Frank M. Rega. Padre Pio often said that he wanted all Americans to be his spiritual children and many are. Did you know that Padre Pio's father came to America to work so he could support his family? One of the first and closest friends from America was Mary Pyle, a wealthy aristocrat from New York. Mary was so close to Padre Pio that each of his parents lived with her before their deaths. She took many Americans into her house who were in Italy to see Padre Pio.

It is not surprising that America was very involved with Padre Pio and all his projects, especially after the Second World War, when the American soldiers constantly visited Padre Pio and brought their devotion to him home to their families.

The book begins with a biography of Padre Pio, with testimonies, stories, and funny antidotes. God bestowed wonderful gifts on this saint in his lifetime. The book tells of his spiritual children, his doctors, his priest brothers, his death, and his work on the hospital that he began. His legacy lives on, especially in his encounters with his beloved Americans. There are pictures of his parents, Mary Pyle, and more.

Learning how many Americans were involved in Padre Pio's life and work was amazing. You will love reading how he affected their lives, as only Americans can tell their story. Soft cover, 308 pages.

THE WHOLE WORLD WILL LOVE ME

The Life of St. Therese of the Child Jesus and of the Holy Face, By Dorothy Scallan. We are offering this book because after seeing the movie "Therese," you will want to know more about this incredible saint. What I consider to be one of the best biographies of St. Therese of Lisieux will have you enthralled. It is complete in the details of St. Therese and her life; with facts that I didn't know, even after reading many books about her. For example, did you know that her devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus was for the conversion of the Godless and that roses weren't her favorite flower? What a great intercessor Saint Therese is!

Even if you have a life-long devotion, like I have, or know very little about St. Therese of Lisieux, you will love this book. Soft cover, 336 pages.

PRAYERS FOR ETERNAL LIFE

By Susan Tassone. Are you prepared for a happy death? Are you prepared for Heaven? This book will tell you absolutely everything you will need to know (even if you are a healthy person).

Susan Tassone has done it again - this book is truly a guide to saving grace! It gives specific practices, prayers and devotions to help us and our loved ones now and at the hour of our death, such as: The Act of Contrition, the Litany for the Dying, Consecration of the last three hours of our life to the Most Holy Virgin, prayers to St. Joseph, who is the patron of a happy death, and much, much more. It turned my prayer life around and gave me peace and consolation.

This book is also a wonderful tool for caregivers, hospital staff, hospice workers, chaplains, or anyone wanting to ready their soul for eternal life. Hardcover, 63 pages.

CLIMBING THE MOUNTAIN

by Anne, a Lay Apostle, and Bill Quinn. This book is due to come out in January but we are taking orders now and you'll be among the FIRST to receive it. Incredible story of Anne's mystical journeys to Heaven. Also includes the beginning of her mission and how it has blossomed into a worldwide apostolate, always under the watchful eye and in complete obedience to the Catholic Church. This is a book to be treasured, as it reveals the intimate love of the Saviour for each one of us. Each reader will be called to great rejoicing, for truly, God's Kingdom comes! This book also includes all of the messages from the ten booklets (left) listed. Soft cover, 304 pages.

HEAVEN SPEAKS SERIES

TEN wonderful books from Jesus, Mary, and the saints to various groups of people. Heaven Speaks to Youth, HS about Depression, HS about Prisoners, HS about Addictions, HS about Abortion, HS about Soldiers, HS to Consecrated Souls (Sisters and Brothers in orders), HS about Divorce, HS to Victims of Clerical Abuse, and HS about Stress (not shown). Each Booklet is $3.00, plus $0.75 shipping.

MOTHER ANGELICA, The Remarkable Story Of A Nun, Her Nerve, And A Network Of Miracles

By Raymond Arroyo, Mother Angelica is the founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), the first Catholic Cable Network. This book comes out of five years of exclusive interviews between Raymond Arroyo and Mother Angelica.

What an amazing human being God has fashioned in Mother Angelica; think of all she has accomplished after such an impossible beginning! Always putting her total trust in God, this is the story of a love relationship between God and Mother Angelica which accomplished great things. It will have you turning pages in wonder, especially when you read of Mother's constant struggles, but God always comes through no matter how insurmountable the problem.

Read about Mother's early alliance with Ted Turner, and the tough decisions she had to make to keep her network going. You will better understand the woman, nun, and head of EWTN when you read this biography.

Mother Angelica and Pope John Paul II came to the same conclusion at the same time, that using television for evangelization was very important. An incredible story! Hard cover, 360 pages.

DID JESUS HAVE A LAST NAME?

By Matthew Pinto and Jason Evert, In the past, I have rarely put a children's or teen's book in the magazine to review but this one is so good I couldn't resist. The 199 questions from the young people are so engaging and thought provoking that you'll be surprised and challenged.

With an easy to read question and answer format this book is great to help a catechist, teacher, or parent discern where the Catholic teenager is in their understanding of faith, morality, the Bible, death and everything in between. No question is taboo and I believe you will love the answers as much as I did.

This is a great book to give a young person (or to read yourself) to learn the very core of the Catholic faith. The teens will be learning the catechism and not realizing it. Soft cover, 270 pages.

AMAZING GRACE FOR MARRIED COUPLES

By Jeff Cavins, Matthew Pinto, and Patti Armstrong, The 4th book in the AMAZING GRACE series. Twelve stories of hope and proof that with God anything is possible. These stories prove that the sacramental bond between a couple and God in marriage is the strongest of all bonds. Learn the secret of how couples are staying together despite incredible odds of disability, infidelity, and addictions of all kinds. When all hope seems to be gone, God can and does make the difference. These are life-changing stories of renewed love and a great book to read together as a couple. Soft cover, 174 pages.

THE EASIEST WAY TO HEAVEN

By Father Aidan Carroll, This is a real treasure of a book. It combines the Consecration of St. Louis de Monfort with the messages of Our Lady of Medjugorje, plus meditations. There are 31 days of messages, consecration and meditations. Wonderful for your Adoration Hour or to use as a novena. From Ireland. Soft cover, 80 pages.

NEW! - LITTLE BOOK FOR YOUTH

From Anne, A Lay Apostle. Give this booklet to every youth you know! Jesus says, "Through these young apostles I will flow powerful conversion graces to draw other young souls from darkness. My plan for young men and women is immense. Truly, the renewal will leap forward with the assistance of these individuals … join my band of young apostles and I will give you joy and peace that you have never known." Jesus says these words are for those souls from Confirmation until age 24. He promises to grant very special graces to these souls to assist them in rejecting the darkness. Soft cover, 80 pages.

SHOWER OF HEAVENLY ROSES - Stories Of Intercession Of St. Therese Of Lisieux

By Elizabeth Ficocelli. If you love St. Therese of Lisieux, as many of us do, or even if you aren't familiar with her, you will love this book. The stories of her intercession will leave no doubt in your mind of miracles.

How could this woman who lived only 24 years, in a cloistered convent, become a Doctor of the Church and be known internationally?

These stories come as comfort and healing from every walk of life and circumstance, including the famous ice skater Tara Lipinski.

St. Therese wanted to spend Heaven doing good on earth. These stories show how God is granting that wish. Soft cover, 214 pages.

GOD IS NEAR US, THE EUCHARIST, THE HEART OF LIFE

By Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, Pope Benedict XVI. It is appropriate that the last of the Eucharist books that I review for the Year of the Eucharist is by our new Pope.

First printed in 2001, when Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger was Prefect of the Congregation of the Faith, this compelling book shows us the biblical, historical, and theological dimensions of the Eucharist. Taken from sermons of the Cardinal, it shows how the Eucharist is the very core of our faith and the life of our new Pope, and of ours as well. This book is a true theological treasure on the Eucharist. Soft cover, 152 pages.

MODERN HEROES OF THE CHURCH

By Leo Knowles. Eighteen people who are called heroes and holy, prove that God's grace is undeniable: Dr. Tom Dooley, helping the people of Southeast Asia, Brother Andre, curing the sick, St. Edith Stein, born Jewish, became Catholic and a nun, and died at Auschwitz, Pope John Paul I, "the smiling Pope," St. Josephine Bakhita, an African slave turned nun, Archbishop Oscar Romero, who was murdered for standing against government oppression, and many more.

The stories are told in an interesting straightforward manner with no sugarcoating. You will read how some of the most unlikely people turn to God and become saintly. Very good reading! Soft cover, 185 pages.

WE HAVE A POPE, BENEDICT XVI

By Matthew Bunson. Unlike the quick books about our new Pope flooding the market now, this one was several years in the making. I have ordered several books about Pope Benedict XVI in the last few weeks so I could find the best one to review for this magazine. I think I found it. It is unique and comprehensive in many ways. In the beginning of the book there is much about John Paul II and the role Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger played in the Vatican, the funeral, the Funeral Mass, and afterwards, as only a Catholic can tell it.

It is also unique and informative about who was specifically in the "running" for the 265th election as Pope, with names and information about each and the process of the election. Also, there is a time line of Pope Benedict's life and what was happening in the world at that time. There are 17 pages of wonderful pictures of this Pope.

You can read in his own words why he chose the name Benedict, how he met John Paul II and why that Pope chose Cardinal Ratzinger to be Prefect of the Congregation for the Faith (for the next 24 years the cardinal had the tough job of dealing with the problems of the Church). Read about Benedict during the Nazi years, about this incredible theologian, writer, his contribution to the Second Vatican Council, and his faithfulness to the Church even against Marxism. I've told you my favorite parts of this book but there is still so much more. You will want this for your permanent library. Soft cover, 238 pages.

THE WAY OF THE CROSS FOR THE HOLY SOULS IN PURGATORY

Edited by Susan Tassone. Our Marian Center and this magazine have sold well over 1,000 of this little treasure of a book. Father Stephen Barham said of Susan Tassone before he died, "Susan wears you out talking about the Holy Souls, but you keep coming back for more."

Her excitement for them is contagious. This book is now in hard cover, so if your soft cover one is worn out, this one will last much longer. A great gift for a priest or a friend. Hard cover, 64 beautiful pages.

Direction for Our Times

Just released and approved by her Bishop! A fascinating and insightful Series of 8 Volumes. Modern day divine revelations from Jesus and the Blessed Mother.

"My child, I speak today to all souls who have fallen away. It is time to come back to Me now. I call you. You hear my voice and you know it is I, your Jesus Christ, who calls out to you. The fact that you know my voice tells you that you belong to Me. Because you belong to Me, little soul, you must return to me now. I want you to repent of your sins. Call out to Me and I will hear you. I will give you exact direction on how you are to return to the fold. Dear lost one, I have heard the groaning of your soul and I am responding to your pain."

Jesus, July 17, 2003

FOREVER A PRIEST

By Father Thomas P. McCarthy, C.S.V. On June 5, 1996, 76 year old Fr. Tom McCarthy was concelebrating Mass in the little chapel of the Audrey Santo home in Worcester, Massachusetts. At the moment of the elevation, a small host lying on the paten began to bleed. Fr. McCarthy witnessed the event with his own eyes and his life would never be the same again. He was catapulted out of retirement to give witness.

However, this is only the culmination of a life of poverty, suffering, and the incredible joys of the priesthood in Father Tom's life. Do we have saintly priests among us? Read this book and you'll shout "yes" in joyous acclamation. Soft cover, 240 pages.

201 INSPIRATIONAL STORIES OF THE EUCHARIST

By Sister Patricia Proctor. Our Holy Father has declared this the year of the Eucharist. Keeping with that theme, I have selected another great book on the Eucharist. I love this book! The stories are short, faith-filled, healing-filled, love and joy-filled; wonderful stories that remind the reader that the Eucharist is our greatest treasure and much, much more.

Sister Patricia Proctor is with the cloistered community of the Poor Clares in Spokane, Washington. One of my favorite parts of the book tells the stories her religious sisters have contributed - and who better than nuns, centering their lives around the Blessed Sacrament. Most of the stories, however, are from lay people, sharing their life experiences.

The last pages contain the Encyclical letter of Pope Paul II, ECCLESIA CE EUCHARISTIA, and 50 pages of the absolutely best Holy Communion prayers every written and compiled - by Reverend Lawrence G. Lovasik.

The genuine, ordinary, sincere, real life stories and teachings of this book will make you want to share it with everyone! Soft cover, 360 pages.

MY CUP OF TEA, MUSINGS OF A CATHOLIC MOM

By Danielle Beau. Danielle has six children and writes this book to remind each of us what a sacred blessing motherhood is. Stories that each and every mother can relate to are told in a cute and inspiring way. You can feel the love and joy in her words and the spirituality of her soul as she shares her everyday moments. She brings God into all the happy, sad, exhaustive, challenging situations of our lives and shows that God is in control even when we aren't. I love the insight of Danielle's words and could relate to each and every story. Soft cover, 177 pages.

IN THE ARMS OF ANGELS, TRUE STORIES OF HEAVENLY GUARDIANS

By Joan Wester Anderson. Joan's readers send in accounts of their encounter with angels and this book is the excellent result. I guarantee that you will laugh and cry when you read the story about the Trade Center and the Gulf War. These stories will convince any skeptic that we have heavenly companions with us always.

Some of Joan's other best-selling books about angels are: Where Angels Walk, An Angel to Watch Over Me, Where Wonders Prevail, and Where Miracles Happen. Soft cover, 275 pages.

THERE ARE NO ACCIDENTS

By Father Benedict Groeschel, with John Bishop. On the evening of January 11, 2004, while crossing the street in an airport, Fr. Benedict was struck on his right side by a car. The accident shattered his arm, broke his leg in two places, and gave him a severe head injury. At first, he was not expected to live.

This book has two parts: the first takes place before the accident, the second after the accident. Part one is an interview done with John Bishop asking Fr. Benedict about his priesthood (which is a great story), his work with Mother Teresa (funny and insightful), the starting of his own mission with the poor, problems in the church and much, much more.

Part two is post accident. Fr. Benedict talks candidly about perseverance in suffering, hope in desperate situations, and about the two principles on which he has built his life - they have not changed, even during the difficult time after the accident. He is wonderfully open, which gives us all a look into the life of this incredible priest. This book is funny, insightful, candid, hopeful, sad, happy, and a must read for all of us who love Fr. Benedict Groeschel. (Isn't that all of us?). Softcover, 124 pages.

SWEAR TO GOD - THE PROMISE AND POWER OF THE SACRAMENTS

By Scott Hahn. "The most solemn, majestic, and beautiful gifts that Jesus Christ gave to the world are His sacraments. He endowed them with unprecedented and unparalleled power - power to change lives, save souls, and share God's very life."

In Scott Hahn's newest book, he delves into the sacraments: their doctrine, rituals, history, symbols, and conventual aspects. He also gives us the biblical and the Church's tradition on each of the sacraments.

He gives us a clear and concise understanding of the sacraments and a new love for them, as well. This is another good book by Scott Hahn to have for your library. Hardcover, 230 pages.

MEDJUGORJE MIRACLES OF PHYSICAL HEALINGS

By Larry and Mary Sue Eck. That’s the title of the new book we’ve compiled and edited. People often say that Medjugorje has no physical healings, like Lourdes. Wrong! We decided to look through all 55 of our issues and see if we had enough physical healings to fill a book. We had too many. Like a magazine, a book is done in a format of so many pages and we decided to keep the cost down and go for about 200 pages. We chose enough stories to fit into that number. We also added a sixteen page, full color section so readers can see the people who are sharing their story.

Some of the stories we included are incredible healing stories, like Colleen Willard’s, Artie Boyle’s, and Jerry Drumm’s. But there are others, like Loretta Young and her broken foot. She walked all over Medjugorje on it without pain, learning how badly it was broken only when she arrived home and had it x-rayed.

We simply had to include the story of the plane crash in Sioux City, Iowa. That wasn’t a healing but so many people survived that crash, who should have died in a fiery explosion, that we know those Medjugorje pilgrims praying together to Our Lady, on the future site of Trinity Heights, made the difference. It’s one of the greatest miracles of airline crash survivals. Many of you who have read this magazine since its birth in 1990, will have read every one of the stories in this new book.

However, we don’t think any other American book on physical healings in Medjugorje has been printed. So, this will be a great gift for those skeptics (priests, sisters and lay people alike) who aren’t impressed with conversion stories, great and numerous though they are.

BEGINNING APOLOGETICS

Written by Father Frank Chacon and Jim Burnham. These large-sized, soft-cover handbooks give clear, compelling answers to the most common objections Catholics get about their faith. Discover how easy it is to show the biblical basis for the Eucharist, the papacy, Confession, Mary, Purgatory, prayer to the saints, and many other Catholic doctrines. If you want to keep your family and friends Catholic, if you want to answer your other-than-Catholic friends, then order these books and learn how to defend your faith charitably and to share it confidently.

CAN YOU ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?

• Why do you Catholics call your priests “father” when Mt. 23:9 clearly says “call no man father?”
• Why do you Catholics worship the Eucharist? Isn’t it just a symbolic piece of bread?
• Why can’t Catholics use contraception?
• Why is Mary such a big deal to Catholics?
• Why are Catholics opposed to abortion?

ISN’T IT TIME WE CATHOLICS STOP SCRATCHING OUR HEADS AND START STANDING UP FOR THE TRUTH?