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Modern society has forgotten that the joie de vivre and the liturgical life are intertwined. Drawing from his experiences growing up in the Catholic culture of New Orleans, author Daniel Fitzpatrick juxtaposes the beauty of taking time to celebrate the Faith with the ongoing cultural drift toward eliminating the Sabbath. The result is a book that will awaken Christians from their spiritual sloth and enable them to appreciate the Lord's Day more deeply as a means of attaining happiness -- in the here and in the hereafter. Fitzpatrick masterfully breaks open Scripture, philosophy, psychology, and literature -- from Homer to Dante, from St. John Cassian to Evelyn Waugh -- positing that we have become Pharaohs within, consumed as we are with anxiety and work. The lines for commerce on Sundays, he points out, stretch out further than those for Holy Communion, while inertia blankets us and idleness saps us of our vitality and zeal. Through his fresh insights and contemporary examples, you will discover: How to honor the Lord's Day and reclaim the freedom to truly worship God Three aspects of the noonday devil's approach, and how to recognize and defeat them Five ways to reorder your Sunday activities to restore Sabbath festivity and holiness How the Holy Eucharist strengthens and enlightens us on our journey to Heaven Techniques for cultivating the silence of contemplation Additionally, you will see why Aquinas, Augustine, and the Desert Fathers identified acedia as an obstacle to advancement in the spiritual life -- a sin against the Lord's Day that often leads people to experience Sunday as a day of anxiety. You will also see how one comes to neglect the dignity of the human person and risks falling prey to immorality when one loses sight of what is holy. Conversely, you will see how living a holy family life, particularly on Sunday, trains us for the heavenly banquet. Fitzpatrick also explains how the liturgy is meant to be celebrated in light of the writings of Pope Benedict XVI and other spiritual authors, and how it invites us to partake of the true "heavenly festivity" here on earth while preparing us for everlasting joy with God in Heaven.

At a time when the profound significance of Easter is often overshadowed by commercialism, The Story of the First Easter Bunny is a refreshing and heartwarming reminder of the true meaning of this most holy of Christian holidays. Best-selling author Anthony DeStefano tells the tale of a pint-size bunny with enormous ears who seeks healing for his sick mother by searching for Jesus and listening to His words. The bunny shows courage and compassion on his selfless journey. When all seems dark and he is afraid, the bunny remembers Christ's words and takes refuge in God's promise by calmly waiting for the light. After the bunny witnesses the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection, he and his mother experience a life-changing miracle, and the bunny goes on to spread the message of salvation to all who will listen. His inspiring example is a reminder to readers -- both the young and the young at heart -- that God's love is ever present and that when we trust Him with the confidence of a child, we find redemption, fulfillment, and lasting joy. This instant classic, told in charming rhyming verse and wonderfully illustrated by New York Times best-selling artist Richard Cowdrey, adopts the Easter Bunny as a symbol of hope in the Risen Lord, of the transformative power of faith, and of the reality of Heaven. It offers an inspiring alternative to our culture's obsession with chocolate treats, dyed eggs, and cartoon characters of little substance. The moving tale of this endearing bunny who refused to give up hope will fill your heart with a song of praise and be a favorite in your home, classroom, and church for years to come.

Popular author and TV and radio host John Martignoni has written a book that highlights the flaws in Protestant teaching -- using something that is in rather short supply in today's culture: common sense. He throws in a little simple logic too. He uses the Bible as the background for his plain yet provocative analysis of numerous underlying problems with Protestantism as a whole and then focuses on specific Bible passages to ask a number of tough questions regarding individual Protestant doctrines and dogmas.Catholics can use this book not only to respond effectively to questions from family members, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and even strangers about why they believe what they believe but also to ask questions of their own -- questions that will leave the Protestants in their lives struggling to come up with logically and scripturally consistent answers and will, hopefully, led them to some serious introspection.With simple, clear-cut explanations, Martignoni lays out the reasons why Protestantism, as a whole and in its individual parts, is illogical and lacking in both common sense and biblical sense. In page after page, you will find concise, candid, power-packed arguments from Scripture, history, and just plain rational thinking, along with thirty questions to ask Protestants about what they believe and why. This treasure trove of apologetics will teach you about: The two pillars of Protestantism and why they cannot standWhat happens when everyone has authority to bind and loose (personal interpretation)How Protestants view sin and infallibility (brace yourself!)The rebellion against the ministerial priesthood and the rejection of doctrinal consistencyHow forensic justification makes God a liar (saved by faith alone?)Additionally, you will learn four reasons why the Catholic Church is indisputably the Church that Jesus founded, which beliefs are essential to authentic Christianity, and how to prove that Jesus is really present in the Holy Eucharist. You will also discover insights into relevant and fascinating questions on faith and works, what the "Catechism of the Protestant Church" teaches, what is required to attain salvation, who wrote the Bible and decided which books to include, when the Church was founded, and much more.

Amid a wide range of spiritualities and charisms, the saints shared two consistent devotions: love for the Holy Eucharist and love for Our Lady. Here is the book that will immerse you deeply in both and inflame your heart with love for Jesus' Eucharistic Heart through the heart of His Mother. The relational reflections contained in this volume will restore or increase your faith in the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. They will help you enter into meditation with Jesus and Mary as never before and will open your heart to receive the graces available from the Sacred Mysteries. Each Marian Eucharistic Visit presented in these pages, similar in format to Lectio Divina, guides you through four parts: ponder (a short prayer or quote from a saint or spiritual writer), reflect (a meditation on the grace you are seeking from your visit), pray (a guided reflection with traditional Marian Eucharistic prayers), and savor (keys to resting in the presence of the Lord). Space is provided at the end of each meditation to journal about the resolutions, affections, and inspirations you receive during your time with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Scripture passages are peppered throughout, as are scenes from the lives of Jesus and Mary to contemplate. In page after page, you will find ways to rekindle the fire of divine love in your prayer life and to grow in loving communion with our Lord in the miracle of the Eucharist. Through the Blessed Virgin's intercession, you will grow in virtue and discover spiritual treasures such as these: What St. Louis de Montfort said is the shortest, surest, and most perfect way to JesusFour types of prayer to incorporate during Eucharistic AdorationThe one thing that wounds Jesus' Heart even more than our sinsThe Marian virtue that thwarts the evil one's tricksThe medicine Our Lady uses to intercede for the spiritual healing of our soulsYou will be inspired by moving stories of saints such as Faustina, the Fátima children, and Pope John Paul II and will see how to apply them to your daily faith journey. With the chapters modeled on particular virtues in the life of Mary to imitate, these precious pages convey the Church's teachings on the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, Adoration, Spiritual Communion, and much more.

As you journey through Credo: Compendium of the Catholic Faith -- the most up-to-date "catechism" in print -- this study journal will help you absorb the riches of the Church's teaching to fruitfully contemplate, pray, and live as Christ taught. This companion resource to Credo is suitable for individuals or study groups, classroom instructors, retreat programs, and large-format presentations. Features include recurring elements such as: Study: Key terms and concepts that highlight each chapter's main doctrinal points Reflect: Prompts to help readers apply chapter themes to their own lives Discuss: Topically related questions to encourage group discussion Lex Orandi: Prayer excerpt from the Mass illustrating a chapter topic Lex Credendi: Excerpt from Credo reflecting the same topic Ample space for notes is provided throughout this study journal, helping you synthesize and personalize your exploration of this wide-ranging summary of Catholic belief and morals. The structure of the journal is carefully designed to enrich the reader's experience of Credo, promoting better study, deeper insight, and more effective use in both private and group settings. Each journal chapter is aligned with the corresponding chapter in Credo to highlight its key aspects, while the beautifully paired excerpts from the Roman Missal will help you discover how the Catholic Church truly "prays as she believes"--lex orandi, lex credendi--helping you draw closer to God. Through reflection and discussion on Christian identity, doctrine, morals, and worship, you will be empowered to testify to the truths of the Faith and equipped to apply and explain the principles of right moral action in an increasingly confused and anti-Christian world. This journal will help you break open the treasures of divine revelation as reflected in Credo, grow in your faith, enrich your catechism class, or shape your homilies.

"Convert us, O God; and shew us thy face, and we shall be saved" (Psalm 80:3).Although many are familiar with the Holy Face Devotion, key fruits and wonders remain untold, and various of its most important spiritual treasures have yet to be discovered -- until now. In these extraordinary pages, Mary Jane Zuzolo unveils for you how this devotion is prefigured in the book of Job, complements Fátima and other Marian apparitions, encompasses the spirituality of St. Thérèse, crowns the insights of the great Carmelite mystics, affirms the Mariology of St. Louis de Montfort, and has generated more miracles than the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. Words of Christ from approved private revelations describe the Holy Face Devotion as "the most beautiful work under the sun" and "the greatest source of grace second to the sacraments." Zuzolo further reveals: The Miracle of the Vatican, in which the Holy Face image became enlivened, serving as catalyst for the related wonder-working at the hands of Ven. Leo Dupont. The woman in the Gospel who was designated by Christ in private revelations as the model of reparation to His wounded Countenance -- and whose "reward" prefigured that which He promises for devotees of the Holy Face Devotion. How reparation to the Holy Face relates to the Holy Sacrament of the Altar and is complementary to the Sacred Heart and Divine Mercy devotions. How St. Joan of Arc was the forebearer of the Holy Face Devotion in her dramatic assistance of the preservation of Catholicism in France. How the Holy Face Devotion serves as an antidote to communism and modernism. The Holy Face Devotion, Zuzolo explains, was bestowed by Christ "as a new pledge of mercy." Its graces flowing though "Our Lady of the Holy Name of God" and its preference by God to all other devotions together give the affectionate title "Mother of All Devotions" dual significance. In our time of heightened sin and darkness, the Holy Face Devotion is a means of imploring the Countenance of Christ to "turn toward us" and restore life and light to the world through conversion of the masses. Unlike any other, the Holy Face Devotion is centered on reparation to the Godhead Itself. In recompense, Our Lord promises to imprint His Image, the very "seal of the Divinity," upon the soul of the devotee. Practicing this devotion is therefore an invaluable aid to our individual salvation, as well as that of our brethren. It is spiritual armament to assist Our Lady in the celestial battle of the age.

"Many are well aware of St. Thomas Aquinas' intellectual prowess - his genius in metaphysics and supernatural theology - that pierced the depths of truth. However, few know about the spiritual life of this illustrious Doctor of the Church. This work, written by Msgr. Martin Grabman, a foremost authority on his life, is unique in its revelation of the sanctity and holiness of St. Thomas' priestly soul. Neither a purely devotional nor a strictly scientific treatment of the interior life of St. Thomas, this book combines the two to help you appreciate the character of the Angelic Doctor. In St. Thomas' own words, you will come to understand how and why he learned more from the feet of the Crucified than from the innumerable books he read. You will further be convinced that sanctity precedes science, and that life precedes knowledge, even in the scientific personality of Aquinas. In this gem, you will find insights into Aquinas' heart, brilliantly aglow with Divine love, through his works and the Acts of his Canonization Process. Msgr. Grabmann highlights three areas in the interior life of Aquinas: wisdom, charity, and peace. The soul of St. Thomas was ordered after the soul of Jesus Christ and his writings on intimacy with God flowed from his own experience of this communion. All St. Thomas' actions during his life were oriented toward Jesus Christ; St. Thomas asked God that he might think like Christ, love like Christ, and be at peace like Christ. St. Thomas spent his life in contemplative prayer, study, writing, and preaching. It is said that he began his writings with prayer and was often moved to tears. Through testimonies about the Angelic Doctor, you will learn about his untold mysticism and discover: The secret to develop fervent charity and attain spiritual delight; His self-sacrifice, kindness, and charity; His exemplary purity and temperance, and how he ordered his whole life toward God; The three-fold wisdom in which St. Thomas found the meaning and happiness of life; The two-fold way that helps us find truth; Why St. Thomas was called the Cherubim of the Eucharistic mystery. Revered as one of the greatest thinkers of all time, St. Thomas also possessed the faith of a child. You will be astounded by true stories of humility and patience that St. Thomas showed in instructing beginners in the spiritual life, along with his mercy and compassion toward others"--

"At this moment, I see the Church on the edge of a precipice. . . . What happened during the sack of Constantinople comes to mind, when the Turks besieged the city, and at the moment of greatest danger, the theologians were caught up in debating among themselves about the color of Our Lady's eyes." Thus states Cardinal Gerhard Müller, former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith under Benedict XVI and foremost defender of the traditional Church, who, for the first time, narrates from the inside some of the most significant episodes of the last two pontificates.In this riveting, thorough, and uncensored interview by Vatican correspondent Franca Giansoldati, the German theologian explains the doctrinal confusion wrought by various themes of the Francis papacy that risks fanning the flames of heresies old and new. With a magnifying glass, he examines topics ranging from Vatican foreign policy to the handling of the pedophilia scandals, from gender, abortion, and end of life to the abdication of Benedict XVI, from the Ukraine war to the risk of schism and predictions for the next conclave.In these pages, you will discover: What was behind Cardinal Müller's being distanced from the Holy OfficeWhether the nomination of new cardinals is linked to a papal attempt at centralizing powerThe limits of the encyclical Praedicate Evangelium, which redesigned the Roman CuriaWhether there is a gay lobby at the Vatican, and the true roles of women in the ChurchWhy the College of Cardinals never intervened in the controversial Becciu caseWhat is happening to the Church in Germany, America, and ChinaThe candid and revelatory answers to these and many other questions enliven Cardinal Müller's reflections and provide an antidote to the twenty-first century's profound crisis of religion. Readers will come to appreciate the balance required between obedience in the Church and defense of the truth, how attempts to protestantize the Church are destroying faith in the true Christ and the sacraments, and the bold solutions the cardinal offers to set the Church on a path to authentic reform.

"The merciful Lord has given us one more year. Let us take it seriously as the last chance. We should not take the risk of delaying." -- Joseph Cardinal Zen Lent is a time of preparation and renewal through prayer, mortification, and charity. With candor and compassion, Joseph Cardinal Zen of Hong Kong explains how you can open your heart to grow in love of God to make this your most fruitful Lent ever. These eighteen Lenten meditations, collected from His Eminence's homilies and pastoral letters during a time of social and political tension, will fortify you to face the temptations that beset you so as to choose consistently the light of life.Also included are thirteen stirring Easter themed reflections. With Cardinal Zen journeying with you, you will find the path to healing amid suffering and discover as never before the glory of resurrected love.In this volume, you will discover: God's wedding gift to you -- and your response Five attitudes to cultivate to become a cheerful giver How to restore your amazement and awe in the Paschal Mystery Ways to make your Lenten, Holy Week, and Easter celebrations more meaningful What you must do to be saved and embrace God's healing and liberating power Seven lessons on the road to Emmaus that will transform your lifeThese beautifully crafted reflections will give you renewed fervor in your devotion to Jesus, our Savior, who wants to take you to a higher level. You will find out how to live in true imitation of the Good Shepherd and how to love your neighbor with a mother's heart. Through Cardinal Zen's wisdom, thought-provoking questions, and unique perspective, you will see as never before how Jesus' messages in the Gospels affirm the dignity of the human person.As His Eminence reveals the mystery of the cross, you will learn what it means to have the faith of a child and experience the comfort and tenderness of the Holy Spirit, especially in times of persecution and suffering. You will also perceive the steps to take to follow God's call, and, with the man healed of blindness, come to say, "I went, I washed, I was able to see."

In an age of rationalistic thinking, Hell is often reduced to a mere concept or a cleverly devised myth -- even by certain members of the Church. Contrary to this notion, the most learned theologians and philosophers throughout the centuries have affirmed the logic behind Hell's existence. In this prescient and eye-opening classic, Fr. Raupert offers a careful, comprehensive explanation of the Catholic doctrine on Hell. You'll learn what it is, why it exists, and how to avoid it -- in compelling, understandable language. While some posit that the devil is merely a creature of man's imagination, you will see what the Bible really teaches about the evil one and Hell and how this undergirds the mysteries of Redemption and Restoration. You will come to understand how "universalism," or disbelief in Hell, is a slippery slope to a spectrum of other heretical views. In fact, denial of the possibility of Hell engenders a lukewarm Church that gradually comes to disregard her mission to lead all souls to Christ. You will find answers to common arguments against eternal punishment and learn: How modern science proves the existence of Hell Five ways ancient civilizations believed in the reality of Hell What the "voice of nature" says about the possibility of damnation Modern objections and timeless replies from saints and scholars What ultimately shapes and determines your character Why the inner battles we face point to the existence of principalities and powers Most significantly, you will discover how the denial of Hell's existence creates a myopic view of God that ultimately wreaks chaos. You will read evidence of the demonic at work through occult practices and learn about diabolical manifestations and spiritual warfare in the lives of the saints. As you gain a greater appreciation of the law of order at work in the moral universe, you will also perceive the one thing necessary for salvation and the hope to which you are called. You will see the urgency of converting now in order to ensure that you will enjoy eternal happiness in the hereafter. In an age of widespread moral relativism, this is the book that will provide you with the reasons to believe.

When Servant of God Mother Mariana de Jesus Torres received her famous apparitions -- the Quito apparitions -- from Our Lady, she was so appalled that she died. A doctor confirmed her shocking death. But thankfully, when her sisters prayed, she was raised to life again.Here James Valois masterfully recounts the stunning prophecies of Our Lady of Good Success of the Purification, which, though they occurred four hundred years ago in the capital city of Ecuador, concern the current crisis in the Church and the world. Approved by Bishop Salvador Ribera Avalos in 1611 and by every bishop in Ecuador since that time, these apparitions are for our era.The relevance of many of these prophecies to today's events, spoken, as they were, about what would begin in the twentieth century and spill over into the twenty-first, is remarkable. Their gripping messages foretell the radical changes in customs and the disturbing state of our modern world that we are facing. Our Blessed Mother's enlightening words to Mother Mariana de Jesus -- a humble nun renowned for her holiness -- bear similarities to the prophecies of Our Lady of Fatima. Although some of the portents are alarming, the promises of hope shine through the darkness of our current crisis. Our Lady's revelatory words pierce to the heart of our present state of affairs: the attacks on the Church from without and within, targeting the sacraments, the priesthood, and the family. You will be enthralled by: A heart-pounding apparition of Our Lady and the Infant Jesus, amid a storm at seaThe reasons why three swords of punishment would be unleashed in the twentieth centuryFive mysterious meanings of "the apparition of the extinguishing of the sanctuary lamp"Revelations of God the Father's love and encouragement for His childrenThe "ineffable joy" of the Blessed Mother's care and intercessionDetails of the Great Crisis and profanations foretold -- some fulfilled and others yet to occurAt such a dark hour, it may appear that all is lost and Christian civilization has ended forever -- but this is not the case. Mother Mariana de Jesus offered her life as a victim soul; the miracles and mystical graces won through her heroic life, and the spiritual phenomena she experienced, continue to result in marvelous transformations of holiness today. Above all, Mother Mary's messages are a call for conversion and renewal and for defenders of the Faith to arise in the face of cultural opposition, join the spiritual battle, and help secure the ultimate triumph, which is the salvation of the world.

Often, when we recall Our Lord's Passion, the scenes flash by so quickly that deeper recollection is difficult. This forty-day meditation on the fourteen Stations of the Cross, designed for use in your home, presents them for you and your family in slow motion, inviting you to dwell upon each event along the Way of the Cross for three or four days. Daily Scripture passages, prayers, and insights from the saints will help you pause, ponder, and contemplate each step of the way as you walk with Jesus on the road to Calvary. Drawn from the writings of the Church Fathers and prayers of the saints, these Lenten meditations plumb the depths of meaning of each station to enliven your experience in praying this popular, long-standing devotion, seasonally or throughout the year. Classic illustrations appear throughout to help you behold your Savior and unite your sufferings more intimately with His in each scene. Penetrating yet practical daily questions are included for further reflection or discussion. The meditations in this book are rooted in the treasury of the Church, interspersing traditions and methods that will sanctify your day and help you grow in holiness. Though perfect for private devotion, this book also serves as a tool for walking the whole family through the sacred season, with reflections written in a style that engages both youth and adults. As you proceed through Lent, these meditations will place in your heart a splinter of Christ's Cross. In His footsteps you will learn: The best interior response to rejection The one fruit of the vineyard we are called to gather Two spiritual weapons and two practical tips for overcoming temptation How Veronica's act shows us what we can do to alleviate others' sufferings A time-tested technique to strengthen your resolve to avoid falling into the same sins How Confession can help you "stop the cycle" of sin, bitterness, and greater sin This is a new kind of Stations of the Cross experience, given that the Stations are traditionally prayed all at once, in procession. But like no other, this book will deepen your family's experience of this devotion by exploring in richer detail the mystery of each event on our Lord's road to Calvary.

All of the baptized, equal in dignity, are called to participate in the mission of the Church and answer the universal call to holiness. The ecclesial movements and new communities that emerge are providential gifts of the Spirit of God and signs of His fruitfulness, affirmed by the recent documents of the popes.In these encouraging pages, you will see the harmony between vocations and the numerous blessings that flow from these movements in the Church, including the strengthening of marriages and the faith formation of young people. You will also discover how to discern and navigate the challenges that sometimes arise in living out the charisms of these communities in union with the local and universal Church.Drawing from his extensive experience with ecclesial communities in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe, Fr. Nilson Leal de Sá reveals: The true meaning of charismFour aspects of every believer's common missionEight ways to discern the authenticity of a charismTen pitfalls (or "diseases") to be avoided in fostering a healthy charismSeven criteria for a mature communityThe four pillars of formation in ecclesial communitiesYou will also learn how to avoid "forgetting your first love" in living out your charism. Most significantly, you will (re)discover the authentic message of the Second Vatican Council regarding reverent worship and liturgical prayer, from music at Mass to the recitation of the Liturgy of the Hours.Regardless of your state in life, this book will benefit and assist you in fostering charisms and communion in the Church. It will unpack for you what the Church teaches in canon law regarding clerical, consecrated, and lay vocations and new ecclesial movements and their modes of operation. And it will inspire you to share the gifts of the Holy Spirit with renewed enthusiasm.

All of us are wounded and in need of healing. In these pages, Dr. Gerry Crete accompanies you on your journey to overcome anxiety and traumas, big or small. You will benefit from his "parts work" therapeutic approach to find inner harmony, greater life fulfillment, and a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Through this specialized technique, you will experience growth, transformation, and ultimately, restoration. This book stands alone in its seamless integration of advanced trauma-based treatment with rich biblical and Christian traditions. Each chapter offers a concise, real-life vignette, an exploration of the psychology of the interior world, a Scripture study, reflection questions, a meditation, and practical ways to apply these life-changing methods. You will also find: The key virtue in inner transformation What is really meant by true self-love The way to begin to open yourself to God's grace and healing How your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health are interconnected Eight characteristics of the redeemed inmost self Dr. Gerry guides you in identifying and understanding past wounds to achieve healing and experience lasting freedom. You will learn how to enter into your inmost self, created in the image and likeness of God. You will also learn how to develop the "eight Cs" to be calm, connected, compassionate, clear-thinking, curious, creative, courageous, and confident. Additionally, you will learn to foster the "five Ps" patience, persistence, perspective, playfulness, and presence. As you rest in the spiritual center of your soul, you will learn to lay down your burdens and feelings of being overwhelmed. Above all, you will find how to truly experience God's love and learn to love Him and others fully. The book includes three litanies: the Litany of the Closed Heart, the Litany of the Wounded Heart, and the Litany of the Fearful Heart. These litanies have been used by countless people to connect their inner parts with God's love and mercy. The goal of the litanies is to bring you into a closer relationship with God as you release your fears and anxieties. We know that in God's embrace we can find safety and that God can heal all of our wounds with loving care," Dr. Gerry explains. "God truly knows us, sees us, and wants the very best for us. And God delights in watching us discover our true selves."

Spiritual direction is a vital aspect of the priestly ministry. It launches souls on the road to Heaven and keeps them oriented as the pathway becomes narrow and steep. Everyone -- from the pope to the most innocent of children -- needs spiritual direction.In these rich pages, Msgr. Charles Hugo Doyle shares wisdom and practical advice on the process that holds rewards not only for priests but for lay faithful as well. As Fr. Edward J. Hogan of St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore observed when the book was first published in 1958, "There are countless souls ripe for sanctity, full of generosity and desire, and needing only the expert advice of a divinely ordained doctor of souls to advance toward sainthood. Yet how often they remain unattended!"Fr. Hogan observed that some Catholic priests hesitate to engage in spiritual direction and to reap the harvest of saints it can produce because they suffer from "a feeling of inadequacy and of lack of the requisite knowledge for so sensitive an undertaking."This is why the famed Msgr. Doyle wrote this book. He guided a generation of priests in the time-tested methods of spiritual direction and even today serves as a guide for lay Catholics who want to progress in holiness but have yet to find a spiritual director of their own.In one timeless volume, Msgr. Doyle lays out the classic principles of Catholic spirituality and distills advice from saints who were commonly regarded as the greatest spiritual directors of their time. You will discover: The art of maintaining a devotional spirit all day long How to advance through the "spiritual stages" The stumbling blocks to genuine meditation Seven brief prayers that can increase your devotion at Mass Eight indicators that you are growing in holiness Ten proven methods to advance in virtueYou will also find ways the devil tries to disrupt you on the path to holiness and how to effectively battle the seven deadly sins. Additionally, you will learn about the danger of scruples, how to overcome them, and how to replace fear with a childlike trust and confidence in God.St. Vincent Ferrer, the great Dominican saint, said about spiritual direction, "A person who has a director by whom he allows himself to be guided . . . will more easily and quickly arrive at perfection than he ever could by himself."This book is a must for every serious Christian's spiritual library.

"The world will be saved when we have a sufficient number of souls devoted to reparation and not before." -- Fr. Raoul Plus, S.JThe great Jesuit Fr. Raoul Plus lived and wrote in an era of immense suffering -- war, early death, religious indifference -- that coexisted, not surprisingly, with robust Catholic faith and practice. He called for spiritual maturity before greater scientific advancements. In this spiritual masterpiece, Fr. Plus explains every facet of reparation for individual penitents and offers simple, practical ways you can help repair what is falling into ruins in our Church and in our world. You will find inspiring answers to all the key questions about reparation, including: - What reparation is and why it matters - Why everyone should make reparation - How reparation should be made (and what to avoid!) - Why devotion to the Sacred Heart and the Holy Eucharist are vital to reparation - Why our Lord wants reparation to be the foundation of Christian livingFr. Plus's work is replete with compelling anecdotes that illustrate how developing a spirit of reparation is critical to advancing spiritually. Fr. Plus provides rich insights and examples from our Lady and saints who lived lives of sacrifice, including John the Evangelist, John Vianney, Mary Magdalene, Margaret Mary, and several modern saints.Through a dozen scriptural passages that Fr. Plus unpacks, you will learn the theology behind reparation and how to teach it to others. You will also learn how to develop a spirit of reparation according to the circumstances of your life, how to compensate for the sins of others, and why spiritual direction is advised for discerning the types of reparation most suitable for you.Above all, you will experience the Call of the King to discover the path that leads to the ultimate goal -- joy with the Lord in the afterlife. Each page invites you to enter into Christ's Heart by sharing in His work of redemption, even in the most seemingly insignificant ways. This book, which covers priestly, religious, and lay reparation, includes Pope Pius XI's celebrated encyclical on reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Miserentissimus Redemptor, as well as a treasury of approved reparation prayers: your complete guide to the nature and practice of reparation.

From sports to weather forecasting to wedding customs to military service, Catholicism Everywhere connects your work, your play, and your daily habits with the vibrant heritage, culture, and prayers of the Catholic Faith.

"Many have likened the past few years to a dystopian novel or a thriller movie due to unprecedented oppression, violence, loss of rights, and weaponization of science and technology at the hands of powerful people with dark intentions. It's coming into ever-clearer focus that the unified, global pandemic response -- the forced lockdowns, vaccine and mask mandates, fear-filled media coverage, and restrictions on public worship -- stripped citizens of their civil liberties and transformed our society. Leaving no stone unturned, award-winning film producer and human rights activist Jason Jones incisively lays out a full-scale campaign against this "Great Reset" to help equip you with the armor to protect and defend yourself, your loved ones, and all those vulnerable to the antihuman designs of global elites who have demonstrated a propensity for trampling basic human rights to achieve their one-world vision. In this prescient work, you will find examples of people -- past and present -- who heroically model ways to overcome the crush of despotism. Through the lens of the Gospels and classical thinking, Jones challenges readers to reclaim reverence for life and prescribes the "emergency medicine" we need to apply to revive and renew our Church, our nation, and our world."--Back cover.

At the beginning of the famous encounter between St. Juan Diego and Our Lady of Guadalupe, as Diego ascends Tepeyac Hill, he is suddenly surrounded by beautiful music and wondrous sights, whereupon he asks himself, "Where am I? Could this be the place that our ancestors spoke of -- the Flower World Paradise in the land of heaven?" With these words, St. Juan Diego ties his encounter to an ancient indigenous belief system -- a spiritual floral domain named "Flower World." This startling history was recently uncovered by anthropologists and archaeologists. In referencing this flowery paradise, Juan Diego opens up a fascinating link dating back to the very cradle of American civilization. Flower World permeated Pan-Mesoamerican culture from its inception, accentuating ancient American man's yearning for a paradisiacal afterlife saturated with music and beauty. This is expressively reflected in flower song poems of the era, whose primary metaphor is that of a singer calling down flowers from heaven to gather in his tilma so he might share them with lords and princes. This exciting new interpretation of American prehistory lays the groundwork for a prophetical reinterpretation of the Guadalupe narrative. Joseph and Monique Gonzalez shed new light on the astounding events of Our Lady's appearance at Tepeyac in December 1531. They present a fresh explanation of the roughly ten million indigenous conversions that occurred after the Blessed Mother's appearance -- considered the single largest Christian conversion event in history. Painstakingly tracing the latest archaeological interpretations of Flower World along with the philosophical ramifications behind the flower songs, the Gonzalezes make a compelling case for the Guadalupe apparition's being the culmination of thousands of years of evangelical preparation of the people of the Americas. In these enthralling pages, you will discover: Whether the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe was a fabrication to convert the indigenous That the miraculous tilma is part of a larger network of miraculous artistic expressions and ideas The five ways Our Lady of Guadalupe attaches herself to ancient traditions That the indigenous peoples had limited exposure to the tilma The four-petaled flower symbol that connects earth and heaven An ancient and mysterious poem that mirrors the Guadalupe narrative The four pillars of "the bridge of understanding" that paved the way for the Gospels That the gathered flowers in Juan Diego's tilma symbolize Jesus as the Path to eternal life This hero's journey through the centuries is a love letter to the modern world that unveils in a stunning way the reality of God's salvific plan for the Americas, then and now.

Sometimes discernment seems complicated, and we struggle to "be still" to listen to God's voice. Following the death of his spiritual director, St. Alphonsus Liguori penned timeless advice in a letter to one of his spiritual daughters, and it became the famous work titled Uniformity with God's Will. Now Dan Burke breaks open St. Alphonsus's eighteenth-century classic for you. He intersperses relevant explanations and insights within the text of this great saint and includes reflection questions for each chapter. St. Alphonsus explains, "We should most confidently abandon ourselves to all the dispositions of divine providence, since they are for our own good." In page after page, Burke shows you how the "wind and waves" can help you ascend to union with God. You will discover: The "paralyzing cocktail" we drink when we reject God's willWhen good works are displeasing to God (Can you guess?)Three prayers that will assist you in directing all things to God's willTwo ways we can know God's love and hear His voiceTwo life-altering spiritual disciplines according to St. Teresa of ÁvilaHow humiliation, adversity, and trials can bring freedom, healing, and salvation (You will be shocked!)Liguori intersperses fascinating real-life examples from the saints to assist you in remaining steadfast amid afflictions. He explains three temptations that confront us and how to resist them, along with four practices of uniformity to God's will and a surefire way to unite your sufferings to Christ's sufferings.You will acquire tips on what to do during periods of aridity or desolation. Above all, you will discover how to enjoy peace of heart in all circumstances and foster loving conversation with God. By learning how to entrust yourself fully to God's holy will, you will experience His divine embrace and the fulfillment of your deepest desires.A "What Next?" section helps you take practical steps in doing God's will. Burke also provides a summary of the Paradigm of Ascent, which provides often hidden but foundational insights and practices necessary to live out Liguori's wisdom and to know the peace promised by God. In addition, he provides a simple action plan to implement these fruitful practices in your life.

Blaise Pascal reflected that humanity is obsessed with divertissement, that is, diversions. By embracing noise and pleasure, we avoid thinking about anything that may be associated with aging, dying, or our final end. But what if our determination to avoid these thoughts means that we are consigning ourselves to living an aimless life? Best-selling author Vittorio Messori invites you to explore this and other aspects of Pascal's Wager in a compelling, conversational way.In these soul-stirring pages, you will find that death isn't simply an individual concern but a collective one. Society's continual advancements in technology and rising political hostilities make the possibility of nuclear apocalypse and other mass extinction events ever more real. Modern culture, however, seems fascinated with death only in entertainment. For death in reality, it relies on euphemisms and escapism rather than direct, honest engagement with the problems of sin, suffering, and grief.Through thought-provoking examples from history, entertainment, psychology, and culture, you will learn ways in which society's treatment of death is impacting education, careers, mental health, and daily living. You will also discover: - How death is viewed in light of ideologies from the Enlightenment to Marxism to existentialism - The connection between radical liberalism and individualism, which lead to a culture of death - Why the burden of proof lies with those who deny the afterlife - How the challenge to consider religion is really about human dignity, self-respect, and duty - How Christian belief is unique from other religions and its denominational differences - What the Bible says about the afterlife, beginning with the Old TestamentYou will also learn ways to restore hope and will see how silence can be a gift and why Messori believes that humor is a virtue. In addition, you will see why the Church's worldview helps to bring meaning and value to every human life, why death is triumphing in modernity, and how you can help turn the tide by choosing life -- now and in the world to come.

This famous classic, which sold more than one million copies in Italy alone when originally published, shows how reason, history, and experience confirm the truth of the Gospel. It will take you on a quest to uncover the obscure Jesus of history, challenge you to think about Christianity as a historical religion, and offer you a multitude of reasons to believe in the Christian faith. These pages -- written by Vittorio Messori, a secular journalist who converted in adulthood from agnosticism -- in fact rely purely on the evidence of facts and history.Raised in an atmosphere of rationalism, Messori shares the deeply personal and transformative experience he had one summer when facing life's ultimate questions. His view on politics, society, and religion changed forever when he encountered the Jesus of the Gospels. This moved him to conduct a historical examination of the roots of Christianity and evaluate the truth of the Gospel, always in the light of faith and reason. This is what you are about to read.Messori adopts a compelling journalistic approach, drawing from Blaise Pascal and an array of philosophers, historians, and theologians. As he breaks open the Gospels, you will perceive his shift from doubt and indifference to fascinating discovery and wonder. You will also learn: Ways in which science and archaeology point to belief in God How Christ's teachings provide universal insights on human nature and behavior Logical arguments that debunk the views of mythologizers and critics Three possible solutions for "the problem of Jesus" Authentic answers to those skeptical of Jesus' Messianic origins How kerygma points to the proclamation of Christ even before the Gospels were writtenMessori also examines how Marxist ideology and Enlightenment philosophy stand up under the lens of historical scrutiny. He further discusses the roles of the apostles and women in the Gospels, along with eyewitness accounts. You will learn about the impact of Christianity on culture, how Christianity differs from other religions, and symbolism in Christian belief. Throughout this journey, you will observe how the message of Christ endures through time. Above all, you will see how the Gospels teach true equality and how our Lord offers the liberty that we all seek as He revolutionizes the world with His ever-present love.

Age Range: 8 and up. In this thrilling novel, Guido, son of a wealthy Venetian merchant, finds himself alongside Don John of Austria in the legendary Battle of Lepanto.

Charles Carroll's life began nearly four decades before the War of Independence and ended while Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, was in office. As Fr. Charles Connor explains, Carroll was "the last of the signers to die, the wealthiest man in the colonies and the new republic, and clung tenaciously to the faith of his forebearers his entire life."In this masterfully written biography, which reads like a riveting novel, Fr. Connor brilliantly sets the stage for Carroll's extraordinary life by examining his ancestry, the origins of the United States, and the story of its founding. As you discover this hero's indomitable faith and energy amid shocking challenges and persecutions, you will find: The fascinating Irish roots of Carroll's family and the dynamics that led to their choicesThe pursuit of religious liberty in the Maryland colony in the face of marginalizationHow "Charley" played a crucial role in the events leading up to the American RevolutionWays Carroll advocated for moral principles and natural rights as "First Citizen"How Carroll's diplomatic skills and legal acumen aided in his prominenceWays Carroll lived out his faith and his connection to the first bishop of the United StatesWhile you learn about the hardships and divisions in the early years of American history, you will be inspired by Carroll's finesse in defending his beliefs while also fostering goodwill and unity. Carroll helped shape our country's foundation, from his participation in the Continental Congress to the drafting of the Constitution to his tenure as senator and decades of service in Maryland. Highlighted in his illustrious legacy are his tireless efforts in promoting human dignity through opposing slavery and standing up for the marginalized through his philanthropy. Above all, Carroll was a spiritual giant whose exemplary faith shines as a beacon for our country today.

"With wit and wisdom, Dr. Ray Guarendi gives parents the tools they need not only to navigate the teen years but also to enjoy them." [taken from back cover] In a question-and-answer format, the author considers issues ranging from curfew to drugs to back talk and equips parents to give their teens a safe, more stable adolescence and character and virtues for a lifetime.

Here is the book that clarifies the mystery of God's work in your life now and what will happen in the end times. Professor Roberto de Mattei opens by explaining, through the lens of St. Thomas Aquinas and other great minds, the order with which God created the world. He then reveals the disorder through which mankind attempts to rule the world and how it will be one day gloriously restored in God's Providence.In these brilliant pages you will find that nothing happens by chance. As de Mattei unpacks the roles of angels, men, and nations, you will learn how to grow in living out God's will for your life. You will also discover: What is meant by the "ladder of beings" and how to attain the heights of perfectionWhere the summit of love is foundThe real cause of evil and why God allows itThree vices of man -- and three corresponding punishmentsWhat authentic surrender to God's will consists of and how to live it each momentSeven reasons God wants to make Our Lady known according to St. Louis de MontfortYou will also learn about the essence of God and His work in our lives, His attributes, divine order in the universe, and the role of the Church. Additionally, you will see what happens when we don't render to God as much as we should, according to St. Augustine.De Mattei further unpacks how disorder leads us away from God, especially in the form of moral evil and revolution and characteristics of the reign of chaos in the last days. You will see how God mercifully transforms evil into good and how the restoration of the world will come about by the power of the Holy Spirit, and you will behold the triumphs of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. You will thus learn to live with renewed hope in God and gratitude for His goodness as you testify to the words: "Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good" (Rom. 12:21).

"With episcopal authority and pastoral zeal, Bishop Athanasius Schneider offers a bold new articulation of timeless truths, unpacking the riches of Church teaching while engaging contemporary issues with refreshing clarity and genuine charity. A reliable guide for anyone seeking to grow in knowledge and deepen their faith..." [taken from back cover].

Your favorite Catholic planner is back, by popular demand, with better features than before. The Fiat Liturgical Planner is the daily planner you've long had on your wish list. The creators of The Illustrated Liturgical Year calendars have designed this traditional planner with beautiful illustrations for every feast, large paintings for each month's dedication, a prayer of the month, Scripture verses, and quotes from the saints. Your handy weekly planner has just met the beauty and richness of the liturgical year! Covering twelve months, this hardcover planner includes the full calendar year. Full-color images capturing every feast day bring each week to life for you at a glance, so scheduling doctor appointments on holy days of obligation will be a thing of the past! Neglecting no detail, the Fiat Liturgical Planner puts everything you need right at your fingertips, including: The primary feast for each day, according to the 1962 traditional Catholic liturgical calendarDays of fasting and abstinence according to the 1962 laws, with indications for which disciplines are necessary under current law Class of feast and vestment colorFirst Fridays and SaturdaysHoly Days of ObligationEmber DaysPrimary secular holidaysYou will enjoy a host of improved features, including: High-quality paper weightHard cover with sturdy, wire-coil bindingEasily portable yet durable designMonthly tabsNew images for Lent and EasterRich in matters of faith without sacrificing a hint of practicality, this planner features a monthly goal-setting page, a spread for daily planning each week, weekly to-do lists, habit trackers, and ample space for notes. It is sure to satisfy all your basic planning needs. An additional "bullet journal"-style flex page each week allows for customized charts, such as meal planning and budgeting. This smart, attractive planner will bring the Faith into your daily preparations to help you stay grounded amid the hustle and clamor of modern life.

With a monthly goal-setting page, a spread for daily planning each week, weekly to-do lists, habit trackers, and ample space for notes, this planner sure to satisfy all your basic planning needs.

It is no secret that many factions exist in the Church. The challenge, however -- and increasingly so -- is in determining which are propagating error and which are shedding light. Through historical vignettes and penetrating writings from a range of sources, Aurelio Porfiri, musician and essayist, examines the emergence of traditionalism in the wake of the Second Vatican Council, the debates concerning liturgy that it has engendered, and the Church's current relationship with the world. Through his sharp-eyed research, relationships, and insights, you will be empowered to discern where the truth lies and how to navigate the stormy waters of modern-day Roman Catholicism.In these absorbing pages, well documented but at the same time easily readable, Porfiri evaluates whether the Second Vatican Council is the real cause of the current crisis in the Church. You will discover if our present divisions and schisms originated during the pontificate of Pope Francis or before. Cogently, Porfiri reveals: The true intentions of St. John XXIII in convening the Second Vatican CouncilThe origins of modernism and its persistent effects in our current crisisThe impact of more than a dozen influential Catholic theologians and intellectual movements on the present situation of the ChurchThe tension between continuity and change, traditionalism and progressivismWhat St. Paul VI said regarding the Church's role in light of cultural trendsWhether Benedict XVI's resignation was an act of courage or neglectMoreover, Porfiri recounts the turbulence of the 1960s within the Church and within society as a whole, reflecting on the struggle between obedience to the hierarchy and individual convictions, not only among clergy but among popular figures of the time. You will learn about the Church's response to contemporary political ideologies, such as communism, and her views regarding ecumenism. Additionally, you will learn about priests who spoke out against progressivism and the consequences they faced as a result, as well as what happened to those who promulgated homosexual views.Far from an ideological diatribe, this work asks the authentic question: Is traditionalism the solution for the crisis of the Church, and if so, how is it properly defined? You will learn details about efforts to defend the use of Latin and preserve traditional liturgy in response to the reforms following the Second Vatican Council, St. John Paul II's attempts to restore unity, and what the last three pontiffs had to say about traditionalism. Despite the current climate of division, reading this book will give you reasons to fight for the truth in the Church, and the motivation to do so.