| Suggested Community Study Materials |
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First Four Study Materials
The following materials were discerned for use by Small Faith Communities for study as they begin their journey together. These materials are “user friendly,” and provide a strong, well-rounded, orthodox Catholic foundation. As each of them can be completed in six to twelve weeks, the community will never feel bogged-down or overwhelmed. 1. Area 1: General Spirituality Discovering My Experience of God – Awareness and Witness By: Fr. Frank DeSiano CSP and Fr. Kenneth Boyack CSP Published by Paulist Press 997 MacArthur Boulevard Mahwah, New Jersey 07430 www.paulistpress.com Discovering My Experience of God is designed to help Catholics know and affirm their stories of faith. This book allows readers to do a simple and thoughtful set of exercises by which they can discover the signs and patterns of God’s presence in their lives. This will help Catholics have greater insight into their own experience of God and assist them to speak to others about it. It is an excellent tool for small groups to come to know each other while they are preparing their story to tell others of God’s action in their life. 2. Area 2: Catholic Catechesis Option A: Why Catholic? Published by: Renew International 1-888-433-3221 www.renewintl.org Four Why Catholic? faith sharing books explore the four Catechism themes, includes direct Catechism quotes, scriptural references, and reflection questions. Each book contains a twelve week study plan. Light of the World recommends that communities cover one book and then move on to the next area of study –scripture. When the community covers Catholic Catechesis again they should select another book to study for twelve weeks and continue this cycle until all four faith-sharing books have been studied. • The Profession of Faith: What We Believe • The Celebration of the Christian Mystery: Sacraments • Life in Christ: Walking with God • Christian Prayer: Deepening My Experience with God Option B: This is Our Faith By: Michael Pennock Ave Maria Press P.O. Box 428 Notre Dame, IND 46556 1-800-282-1865 www.avemariapress.com This popular faith primer and handy companion for all who wish to know more about the Catholic faith now corresponds with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It is arranged along the four pillars of the Catechism: The Profession of Faith, The Celebration of the Christian Mystery, Life in Christ, and Christian Prayer. Questions for discussion are presented. Prayer exercises help the reader understand that knowledge of the faith draws one closer to the Lord. This catechism is specifically designed for Catholic adults, for those new to the church, and those journeying through the RCIA. 3. Area 3: Scripture Study God’s Library Joe Paprocki Loyola Press 3441 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL 60657 800-621-1008 www.loyolabooks.org In God’s Library, Joe Paprocki guides readers into a basic understanding of “God’s Library” – the collection of seventy-three books that Catholics regard as the definitive written revelation of God. In an easy to understand language, he explains the organization of the Bible, the different genres of biblical writing, key figures in biblical history, and the methods Catholics have developed to interpret the Bible properly. He shows beginning readers how to use commentaries, concordances, footnotes and cross-references, and other valuable tools of Bible Study. 4. Area 1: General Spirituality Living in the Power of the Holy Spirit: A Catholic Bible Study Rich Cleveland The Word Among Us 9639 Doctor Perry Road Ijamsville, MD 21574 www.wordamongus.org Who is the Holy Spirit? What is his role in our salvation? How do we cooperate with him to experience the fullness of his presence? How do we receive his fruits and exercise his gifts? These are a few of the questions explored in this nine week Bible study, which is designed to help Catholics grow in their appreciation of the Holy Spirit and his power to transform their lives in Christ. The many relevant Scripture passages, combined with wisdom from the saints, the Catechism, and church tradition, make this a truly inspired Bible study. Additional Materials for Study
Apologetics & Evangelization
Answer Me This! Patrick Madrid, Our Sunday Visitor (https://catalog.osv.com/Catalog.aspx?SimpleDisplay=true&ProductCode=T14) Book $ 11.95 So why do Catholics: say Mary remained a virgin? Refuse to rely on Scripture alone? Teach papal infallibility? Worship saints and bow down to their graven images? Claim the wafer is really Jesus? And, bottom line, again and again - Where in the Bible does it say...?
When some folks have questions about Catholicism, they're more than merely curious. They want to take a jab at your beliefs as they try to persuade you to accept theirs. Door-to-door proselytizers are trained to ask hot-button questions. They proclaim to know what many Catholics can't articulate.
Now author, EWTN television host, and noted apologist Patrick Madrid has compiled tough questions Catholics face. They are questions he and others have been confronted with time and again. He presents solid, Bible-based, easy-to-understand, and easy-to-explain answers. Here is how to calmly, charitably, and effectively respond. Discover the answers to some questions you may have wondered about yourself!
Beginning Apologetics 9: How To Answer Muslims Catholic Answers (http://shop.catholic.com/product.php?productid=432) Book $5.35
Catholics should understand that Islam today poses a challenge to the Church that is perhaps the most serious threat it has ever faced. A galvanized, confident, rapidly expanding Islamic world confronts an exhausted, indecisive, rapidly declining secular West.
Evangelization Fr. Tom Forrest; available from My Catholic Faith (http://shop.mycatholicfaith.org/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=3&zenid=bt00or0donkmuq1pgal930fj22) Part 1 Audio CD $18.95 Part 2 Audio CD $18.95
Redemptorist priest Father Tom Forrest spent the first 23 years of his priesthood working among the poor in the Caribbean. Internationally renowned, Father Forrest has spoken in 104 countries and his articles and books have been translated into several languages. Father Forrest organized two Worldwide Retreats for Priests, and had the great good fortune to meet with Pope John Paul II on many occasions. Presently he serves the Church as International Director of Evangelization 2000, a Catholic effort to promote Church renewal through prayer, proclamation of the Word and the formation of an evangelistically activated people of God. Father Forrest resides in Washington D. C.
Why Be Catholic? Tim Staples, Catholic Answers (http://shop.catholic.com/product.php?productid=16715&cat=0&page=1) DVD $14.95 (90 min.)
In his enlightening and approachable way Tim shows: How science — including Einstein’s theories and the Hubble Telescope — have proven the existence of God, How everything in the universe can be tracked back to one single event, How Natural Law is written on the heart of everyone, How something as “simple” as a DNA cell is so complex that only God could have created it, Why man needs religion, Why we have an absolute obligation to give devotion to God, Why God is obliged to let us know who He is, How man has created religion out of a natural desire to know God, The number one Bible passage that every Catholic needs to memorize, How God has revealed himself to us through his Son Jesus Christ, and the apostles, How the Catholic Church is the culmination of God’s revelation to man, The significance of God’s authority given to Jesus and passed on to his Apostle’s with Peter as the head, Why all other religions are not the “true” religion of God, How to refute Muslims who claim that the Gospels were corrupted, And more….
Catechesis & Theology
The Catholic Way Cardinal Donal Wuerl, Doubleday Avaialbe online and at most booksellers Book $12.71 (Amazon)
An up-to-date reflection on what it means to be a Catholic today. It is a clear, intelligent, and authoritative guide to the perennial faith of the Catholic Church as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Written by Bishop Donald W. Wuerl, the chairman of the U.S. Bishops' Committee on Education, he is recognized internationally and nationally for his teaching and writing, and for producing video presentations on the Catholic faith, this indispensable book illuminates the riches of the Catholic Church, guiding readers - whether recent converts or lifelong Catholics - to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Church.
In concise, easy-to-understand language, Bishop Wuerl explores what the Church's Catechism is and how its content touches our life. He explains the words of the Sacred Scripture, the meaning of Jesus' life and ministry, Mary's place and significance within the Church's teachings, what the articles of the creed mean, what the sacraments signify, and how the commandments apply to us today. His insights provide answers to the questions "What do we believe?" and "Why do we believe that?"
This book includes discussion questions at the end of each section.
Christopher West, Ascension Press DVD $99.95; CD $39.95 (Eight Sessions.) An Introduction to the Theology of the Body: Discovering the Master Plan for Your Life, is an eight-part, four hour study designed to give you a solid understanding of God's plan for humanity - a plan stamped right into our bodies.
Most people have heard the "whats" of Catholic teaching, but very few have ever heard the "whys." With profound insight, Christopher West demonstrates that the Church's teaching on sex and marriage "makes sense," and, in fact, is the "logic" of Christianity - because it corresponds perfectly with the deepest stirrings and desires of the human heart. This study is for everyone searching for their ultimate purpose in life.
The Faith for Beginners Stephen K. Ray & R. Dennis Walters (http://www.steveraysstore.com/books/faith-for-beginners.html) Book $11.95
The Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds are prayers most Catholics take for granted. We pray them by rote when we say the Rosary or go to Mass—often without thinking about, fully understanding, or even truly believing what we’re saying. And providing you with this understanding is what The Faith for Beginners is all about. It’s a fascinating romp through the history of the Creed, closely examining what we believe and why—with references to Scripture, the Church Fathers, and Church Councils.
This book is not designed specifically for group discussion.
The Fathers Know Best: Your Essential Guide to the Teachings of the Early Church Jimmy Akin, Catholic Answers (http://shop.catholic.com/product.php?productid=16848&cat=0&page=1) Book: $19.95
A unique resource that introduces you to the teachings of the first Christians in a way no other work can. It is specially designed to make it easy for you to find the information you want and need. This book flings open the doors of the crucial but little-known age covering the birth of Christianity and the triumphant march of the gospel throughout the ancient world. It is not designed for Small Faith Communities, but could be used, coving as much as desired, whenever convenient.
Papal Writings (Available by download or purchase on the web and in Catholic Bookstores) Including, but certainly not limited to:
Ecclesia in America Catechesi Tredendae Christe Fidelis Laici Deus Caritas Est Ecclesia de Eucharistia Evangelii Nuntiandi Familiaris Consortio Fides et Ratio Humanae Vitae Lumen Gentium Novo Millennio Ineuente Redemptoris Missio Sacramentum Caritatis Spe Salvi
The Mass and Devotions A Biblical Walk Through The Mass Edward Sri, Ascension Press. (http://www.ascensionpress.com/shop/Scripts/prodList.asp?idCategory=159) DVD $74.95; CD $29.95 (Five 30 min. Sessions.) In this five-part DVD series Edward Sri takes the viewer on an exciting tour of the liturgy. Based on the revised translation of the Mass which goes into effect Advent, 2011, it explores the biblical roots of the words and gestures we experience in Mass and explains their profound significance. Each 30 minute session is designed to accompany a lesson in A Biblical Walk Through the Mass Student Pack and Leader's Pack.
Eucharist Fr. Robert Barron, Word on Fire Available through Catholic Word (http://www.catholicword.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=450) DVD $19.95; CD $9.95 (Five Sessions)
Fr. Barron offers inspiring insights into the mystery of Christ's presence in our lives and the centrality of the Eucharist as an important part of that presence. So many believers do not understand the mystery of the Eucharist, which Vatican II said is the "source and summit of the Christian life." This fresh look at the Eucharist brings to light its reality as sacred meal, the sacrifice necessary for communion with God and the real presence of Christ.
The Catholic Mass Revealed Thy Kingdom Come, Inc.; Available through Catholic Word: DVD, CD Musci CD $ $29.99) (DVD, 31 minutes; Audio Commentary CD, 74 minutes; Soundtrack CD, 32 minutes)
This DVD explains step-by-step the beautiful gift of the Catholic Mass with beautiful imagery from Catholic Masses through the US. The accompanying written commentary and original score makes this a perfect resource to explain the Mass, renew your love for the Mass, and a great tool for group discussions.
The Lamb's Supper Scott Hahn, PhD., Doubleday (Available through all major book sellers, including Amazon) Book $12.98
The Lamb's Supper Study Guide Book $9.98
Lord Have Mercy (Available through all major book sellers, including Amazon) Book $15.30
Scott Hahn expores the sacrament of reconciliation and shows why it is the key to spiritual growth. Drawing on the history of ancient Israel, the Gospels, the writings of the early Church, and the lives of the saints, Hahn reveals the living, scriptural heart of the Church's teachings on penance, forgiveness and reconciliation
A Pocket Guide to Living the Divine Mercy Rev. George W. Kosicki, CSB, Our Sunday Visitor (https://catalog.osv.com/Catalog.aspx?SimpleDisplay=true&ProductCode=T680) Book $ 6.95 Find refuge from your anxieties and fears. Embrace God's infinite mercy as revealed to Saint Faustina and draw hope and inspiration from the actual words of Our Lord, faithfully recorded in her diary.
Saint Faustina and the Divine Mercy message were canonized by Pope John Paul II as "God's gift to our time." Make this gift your own through this short course on the merciful way.
Signs of Life Scott Hahn, Doubleday (Available through all major book sellers, including Amazon) Book $15.30
Scripture
Book $7.96 In the Our Father, we are praying to God with words given to us by God. Yet how often do we pray the Our Father without a conscious understanding of what we ask of him? Popular author Rich Cleveland helps readers explore the meaning behind the words--and the meaning this prayer has for our lives as children of a loving Father.
Book $8.76
Food from Heaven will help readers navigate through the Bible to understand and appreciate the foundation of Eucharistic worship. Among the texts studied are Old Testament realities that anticipate the Eucharist—the manna in the desert and the sealing of the Mosaic covenant with a blood sacrifice—along with gospel accounts of Jesus’ bread of life discourse, the Last Supper, Jesus’ crucifixion and death, and the breaking of the bread with the two wayfarers in Emmaus. Each session includes the full Scripture text, a short commentary, and questions for reflection and discussion. “In the Spotlight” sections are especially helpful to Catholics, featuring historical and cultural details, explanations of Greek words, and quotes from church fathers, the catechism, and contemporary Catholic writers.
Jeanne Kuhn, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=879) Book $8.76
Jesus came into the world so that he could lay down his life for our sake, for our salvation. But to experience the reality of our redemption—to know freedom from our disobedience, pride, anger, self-centeredness, and other nagging sins that still keep us bound—we must take hold of the power in Jesus’ cross and apply it to our lives. Then we will share in the victory that Jesus won for us. The Life-Giving Power of the Cross, the newest Scripture guide of the popular Keys to the Bible series, helps us to realize that Christ’s victory is our victory. His triumph over sin and death is our triumph. And ultimately our hope is that on the last day, we will be united with him in his resurrection, healed and transformed in body, mind, and spirit, and wholly conformed to his image. This six-session Bible study is especially pertinent during Lent but can be used at any time of the year. Each session features: the Scripture text to be studied and insightful commentary; questions for reflection, discussion, and personal application; “In the Spotlight” sections offering wisdom from the saints and the church as well as fascinating historical background about Jesus’ passion and crucifixion.
Living in the Power of the Holy Spirit: A Catholic Bible Study
Book $7.96 Who is the Holy Spirit? What is his role in our salvation? How do we cooperate with him to experience the fullness of his presence? How do we receive his fruits and exercise his gifts?
Book $7.96
Mighty in power, Jesus confronted sickness and sin—even death—with the sovereign authority that was his as the Son of God. His miracles were signs that communicated his Father’s love and compassion and drew men and women to faith in him. This Scripture guide will help readers understand these past miraculous events as invitations to experience God’s mercy and salvation today. Each of the six sessions includes the full Scripture text of a miracle performed by Jesus, a short commentary, and questions for delving into the text and applying it to daily life. In the Spotlight sections are especially helpful to Catholics, featuring not only details about the historical and cultural background of the New Testament and explanations of Greek words but also brief selections from the church Fathers, saints, church documents, and contemporary Catholic writers.
My Lord and My God! A Scriptural Journey With the Followers of Jesus Jeanne Kuhn, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=222) Book $12.56
Based on ten gospel characters who encountered Jesus in a life-changing way. Simon Peter, Bartimaeus, Mary of Bethany, Joseph of Arimathea, Thomas-and others-show just how diverse the faces of discipleship are. Author Jeanne Kun takes readers through various scenes in Scripture with her books in the Scriptural Journey series. Each chapter includes: a poetic meditation written by the author; the Scripture passage to be studied; a series of questions for delving deeper into the meaning and significance of each scene; and questions for applying these truths to our own lives. The reflections conclude with an inspiring selection from a noted Catholic author.
A Pocket Guide to The Bible Scott Hahn, Our Sunday Visitor (https://catalog.osv.com/Catalog.aspx?SimpleDisplay=true&ProductCode=T680) Book $6.95
Using straightforward, accessible language, Scripture expert Scott Hahn explains the "nuts and bolts" of the Bible -- how it came to be, the types of literature found within it, and the thrust of each book -- in a handy, yet thorough, way that demystifies the Bible and simplifies understanding.
Praying Scripture for a Change Tim Gray, PhD., Ascension Press (http://www.ascensionpress.com/shop/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=489) Book $12.99
In this succinct book, Catholic theologian and biblical scholar Dr. Tim Gray walks the reader through the Bible and the wisdom of the saints to reveal the practical steps of this great treasure of our Tradition. Learning the simple steps of Lectio Divina will provide a practical and effective way for you to enhance your prayer life through the power of God’s Word.
DVD $99.95 CD $39.96 (8 sessions)
A Quick Journey Through the Bible is part of The Great Adventure Catholic Bible study system. This parish-based study provides an excellent introduction and overview of the Bible from a Catholic perspective.
The Seven Last Words of Christ: A Bible Study on the Passion of Jesus Rich Cleveland, Word Among Us Book $7.96
Readers can study the seven short sentences uttered by Jesus as he endured his crucifixion and be drawn closer to Jesus' Passion so that the real meaning of Easter comes alive!
My Soul Magnifies the Lord: A Scriptural Journey with Mary Jeanne Kuhn, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=139) Book $11.16
Follow in the footsteps of the first disciple of Jesus-his mother Mary. As readers take this pilgrimage of faith, their own faith will deepen along the way! This unique book focuses on ten important gospel scenes in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from her fiat at the Annunciation to her presence in the upper room at Pentecost. Each chapter includes: a poetic meditation; the Scripture passage to be studied; a series of questions for delving deeper into the meaning and significance of each scene; and questions for applying these truths to our own lives. The reflections conclude with a short portrait of another biblical character who exemplifies a trait demonstrated by Mary, along with an inspiring selection from a noted Catholic author. Author Jeanne Kun takes readers through various scenes in Scripture with her books in the Scriptural Journey series.
Treasures Uncovered: The Parables Of Jesus Jeanne Kun, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=230) Book $8.76
This six-session Scripture guide will help readers explore the surprising-and often challenging-dimensions of six of Jesus' parables. Each chapter includes the full Scripture text of the parable, a short commentary, and questions that will help readers to deepen their understanding of the story and reflect on its meaning for their own lives. Short In the Spotlight sections supplement the commentary with fascinating historical details, explanations of the Greek root words used in the original Gospels, and quotations from church fathers, saints, and contemporary Catholic writers.
Mary Ann Getty-Sullivan, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=863) Book $8.76
The gospels portray women as significant and influential members of Jesus' followers. This Bible study presents six examples of women in the gospels – disciples who encountered Jesus and spread his message of love. Sessions focus on Elizabeth, Mary's cousin and the mother of John the Baptist; Anna the prophetess who saw the baby Jesus in the Temple; the women who followed Jesus from Galilee; the mother of the sons of Zebedee; the Samaritan woman at the well; and Mary of Bethany. This study will help you discover how you can better follow Jesus and proclaim his love to the world. Each session provides: the full Scripture text and a short commentary; questions for reflection, discussion, and personal application; and "In the Spotlight" sections featuring wisdom from the saints and the church, root meanings of Greek words, and fascinating historical background.
The Words Of The Risen Christ: A Bible Study On Jesus' Resurrection Rich Cleveland, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=326) Book $7.96
What did the risen Christ say to his followers when he appeared to them, and what do his words say to us, as followers of the risen Christ, today? In this Emmaus Journey Bible study, popular author Rich Cleveland delves into the significance of Jesus’ resurrection appearances. His final words, such as “Go make disciples” and “Do you love me?” set the tone for each of the eight sessions and are the launching pad to explore such themes as community, reconciliation, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the call to evangelization. Each session features the Scripture text, a commentary, a series of reflection questions, and a call to action. A perfect follow-up to Cleveland’s popular study on Jesus’ passion, The Seven Last Words of Christ, this study is designed for individuals or small faith-sharing groups.
Spirituality and Living a Christian Lifestyle
Conversion Fr. Robert Barron, Word on Fire Available through Catholic Word (http://www.catholicword.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=450) DVD $19.95; CD $12.95 (Seven Sessions)
Father Robert Barron presents six Biblical stories of true conversion. They were people just like you who were called by Christ to become better: Bartimaeus, The Rich Young Man, The Calling of Matthew, Jonah, the Woman at the Well and the Journey of the Magi.
Heart to Heart With God: Six Ways to Empower Your Prayer Life Dcn. Ralph Torelli, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=663) Book $7.67
In Heart to Heart with God, readers explore six attitudes or actions that will bring passion and life to their prayer and give them confidence that God still acts powerfully in the world today. Deacon Ralph Torrelli shows us how to pray the deepest desires of our hearts and how to arm ourselves to fight the spiritual battles of the Christian life. He also encourages prayer that is persistent, bold, expectant, and specific, and includes real-life testimonies of God's amazing responses to such prayers. Each of the six sessions includes: the full Scripture text; a short commentary; questions for reflection and discussion; "In the Spotlight" sections featuring historical background and quotes from the saints, the Catechism, and contemporary Catholic writers.
Life of the Beloved (http://www.catholiccompany.com/life-beloved-p1033591/) Book $ 16.95
Money in the Kingdom: Six Essential Attitudes Susan V. Vogt, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=896) Book $8.76
As followers of Christ, how do we decide how to use the treasure that God gives us? How do we judge what to purchase and what to give to others? As we examine our own hearts on this topic, we must especially guard against self-righteousness and judging others for purchases and decisions that differ from our own. This is a daunting task and can only be done with prayer and the grace of God. This Bible study helps us look at these issues honestly in our own lives by taking a deeper look at what the Scriptures have to say. The times are different, but the values are the same. Yes, we are our brother’s keeper. Yes, we are called to be good Samaritans, no matter what our nationality. Yes, we are to be prudent with the earth’s resources. But we are also called to be generous and at times even lavish with celebrating and honoring each other. After all, Jesus provided more wine at the wedding feast of Cana.
Each of the six sessions features: the Scripture text to be studied and insightful commentary; questions for reflection, discussion, and personal application; “In the Spotlight” sections offer wisdom from the saints and the church as well as fascinating historical background.
Moved by the Spirit: God’s Power at Work in His People Kevin Perrotta, Word Among Us (http://bookstore.wau.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=736) Book $8.76
Looking for an extreme personal makeover? The Holy Spirit is your answer. The Spirit acts in us as "architect and contractor," says popular Catholic author Kevin Perrotta, to bring about God's plan for our lives. This six-session Bible study explores such questions as: What does the Spirit come to do in us? How can we experience his presence and cooperate with him? What will happen if we do? Scenes from Luke's gospel featuring Mary and Elizabeth, Simeon and Anna, and Jesus himself are included here, as well as two scenes from the Book of Acts. Perrotta concludes the study with a passage about the Spirit from St. Paul.
The Seven Commandments of Discipleship: What God asks of Us (http://www.paulistpress.com/bookView.cgi?isbn=0-8091-4166-3) Book $12.95
Examines our relationship with God within the rubric of evangelizing discipleship. Includes discussion questions.
Seven Deadly Sins, Seven Lively Virtues Fr. Robert Barron, Word on Fire Available through Catholic Word (http://www.catholicword.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=450) DVD $19.95; CD $12.95 (Eight Sessions)
Join Father Robert Barron for this engaging presentation concerning the Seven Deadly Sins, those great spiritual blocks that inhibit our flourishing in relationship with God and one another. Based on Dante's writings, the seven deadly sins correspond to the seven stories of Dante's Mt. Purgatory. Pride, envy, anger, sloth, gluttony, avarice and lust are all presented as patterns of dysfunction within us that lead to unhappiness.
Untold Blessing Fr. Robert Barron, Word on Fire Available through Catholic Word (http://www.catholicword.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=450) DVD $19.95; CD $12.95 (Seven Sessions)
Our ultimate goal is to be a saint. It is our greatest calling and what is desired for us by our Creator. Father Robert Barron paints a beautiful and mysterious image of what it takes to be a follower of, "the One who is, Jesus Christ." He lays out three intriguing paths to holiness: Finding the Center; Knowing You're A Sinner; and Realizing Your Life is Not About You. He also provides practical approaches to enhance your journey along these three paths.
Untold Blessing and its companion book, The Strangest Way, are insightful guides for meditation as you walk in the Way, either for personal reflection or for small group study and discussion.
Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus Christ (http://shop.mycatholicfaith.org/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=3&zenid=bt00or0donkmuq1pgal930fj22) Audio CD $14.95
Redemptorist priest Father Tom Forrest spent the first 23 years of his priesthood working among the poor in the Caribbean. Internationally renowned, Father Forrest has spoken in 104 countries and his articles and books have been translated into several languages. Father Forrest organized two Worldwide Retreats for Priests, and had the great good fortune to meet with Pope John Paul II on many occasions. Presently he serves the Church as International Director of Evangelization 2000, a Catholic effort to promote Church renewal through prayer, proclamation of the Word and the formation of an evangelistically activated people of God. Father Forrest resides in Washington D. C.
The Way of the Disciple (http://www.ignatius.com/Products/WD-P/the-way-of-the-disciple.aspx) Book $9.31 (also available for electronic download)
This book explores in depth six Gospel scenes so as to discover in these the essential elements of Christian discipleship. It describes the basic requirements for receiving the Word of God effectively in our hearts: namely, that we “become wet clay in God’s hands”, so that God can impress upon us any form he chooses. It also contemplates the vital position of the Mother of the Lord in the life of his disciples.
The author shows that the call to discipleship is above all an invitation to intimate companionship with Jesus, as we read in Mark: “Jesus called to him those whom he desired… in order that they might be with him” (3:14-15). What we normally call the “active apostolate” can never be an end in itself, but only the fruits of a life of prayer and adoration. These are what must be at the heart of a disciple’s life, which can never be swept up by mere activism.
What Does God Want? A Practical Guide to Making Decisions (https://catalog.osv.com/Catalog.aspx?ProductCode=584) Book $11.95 We make about 200 conscious decisions a day. Most are small. Some are huge. Other decisions seem small, but are difficult. What Does GOD Want? is designed to help you make these decisions. It offers a five-part process for decision-making that can help you choose the right course of action in matters large and small. Developed by Father Michael Scanlan during more than 30 years of spiritual direction, counseling, and teaching, this approach to decision making is grounded in Catholic tradition and tested by thousands in the real-life challenges of life direction, love, work, study, service, and relationships.
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