Catholicism Books

I never received the book, however, the seller was excellent in refunding my money. The shipment portion was Amazon's fault.

NOW it all makes sense! After reading THE LAMB'S SUPPER, I'll never look at Mass the same--nor should I. Scott Hahn ties the Book of Revelation, the liturgy, and the Communion of Saints together in one beautifully written work. Even after attending mass at least weekly for 58 years, I've never understood it to the degree that I do now--thanks to Scott Hahn. What a refreshing insight it is to see myself as an unworthy guest at the Lamb's feast--together with my parents who have passed on before me and all the saints and angels of heaven. Not only does the mass mean more, the communion of saints comes alive in its celebration. Thank you Mr. Hahn once again for your faith, your enthusiasm, and your knowledge--which you never fail to pass on with both humor and love.

Outstanding and easy to understand why there is so much importance placed on the Eucharist, particularly by Catholics, and where it is in the Bible to support it.

I could not put this book down! It gave me a whole new perspective of the Book of Revelation and enriched my experience at Daily Mass. I highly recommend this book to all Catholics and those interested in the Catholic Faith.

The Mass will never be the same again once you've read/experienced this book - Awesome!

I have just begun reading this book and find it very interesting and inspiring so far. If you are interested in praying the rosary, this book definitely shows the power that the Blessed Mother has.

In excellent condition. Very reasonable price .. and truly inspiring ..

thank you

Four months pregnant and single in L.A., an old boyfriend pleaded with me to come back me and live with him in New Jersey. He even offered to marry me. I gave two weeks notice, bought a ticket for the three thousand miles home and started in to work to collect my last check, finish the work day and to leave the next am at seven. I had going away parties thrown for me in the office and my room was already rented to someone else. On the bus on my way to work, I said to Mary, "This is an answer and if you want me to accept it, I will, even though it doesn't feel exactly right." I phoned the boyfriend at noon - four hours after praying - and he had changed his mind. He said he wouldn't pick me up at the airport and that couldn't live with him. The whole story is enough for a book that is coming out called Defiant Hope but the 'baby' is now 17 and Mary worked everything out perfectly, all because I prayed the rosary. The way I pray is as if I'm on the phone with her. She must like that!

This was a WONDERFUL inspirational book! The best I have read in a long time. The stories range from a person's memory surrounding the rosary, to a personal miracle, to a family miracle. Some of the stories made my hair stand up on end, so many goose bumps! Some of the stories I shared with my protestant friend, who by the end of the book, began to ask me more about the Rosary and Mary. Even though she has no desire to become Catholic, she has totally embraced the Rosary and her new understanding of Mary... continuing to show that the Rosary, when understood, can bring all faiths together. Praise be God! I plan to buy this book (and a few Rosaries) to pass around as gifts! Wonderful for all peoples of faith, a definite must for any Catholic!!

i loved reading the inspiring stories of help from Our Lady by praying the rosary, which i also pray and believe in. if you want to be really "touched" by some wonderful accounts of miracles, then buy this book. i am sure you won't be able to put it down. i marked several pages so i can find them and read them whenever i get a little blue. this book will pick you up!!

barbara

The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen was a wonderfully spiritual book that spoke to my soul. I chose to read this book because the parable of the Prodigal Son always bothered me. It just wasn't fair that the younger brother could just come home after insulting his father by taking his inheritance, engaging in wine, women, and song as well as other debauchery. What about the elder son? He was the "good son". He did everything he was supposed to. He put aside his own selfish desires. And to what end? His father killed the fatted calf and the party started the day the younger son realized the error of his ways.

So I turned to this book for insight into the parable and into myself. Several aspects of the book struck me as important. First was the idea that each character in the story was lost in his own way. I choose to focus on the elder son and realize that Nouwen was correct in saying that resentment and bitterness, not to mention judgment and condemnation is damaging to the human heart. The key to leaving these fruitless emotions behind and moving back into the light is trust. God seeks me and wants me. I am His Beloved. Nouwen addresses each character in the parable, their weaknesses and their strengths, and ultimately if we are willing to look, we can see a piece of ourselves in the father, the elder son, and the younger son.

An added feature that greatly enhanced the lessons learned and which I did not expect was the art history lesson. Keeping in mind Rembrandt's own personality and fragility, his own interpretations were brought into the painting of the parable. Having a snapshot of the time period further added clarity.

I highly recommend this book to any person, Christian or seeker. Nouwen added insight to story and points the reader in the right direction; trust in Our Father who loves us and wants us regardless of our failings.

This book came to me in the best shape and it was so informative without being too intellectual. Found it hard to put down-- I have lent it to a friend who loves both Rembrandt and the parable of the Prodigal son-- Keep the good books coming!

This small book was another lamp in my journey to a Higher Power. Those of us who know that "to search" is the "finding" will truly enjoy this spiritual exercise.

A catholic friend of mine thought it was unusal for Cath the great, of Russia to have a Rembrant painting (the Prodigal Son} in the St Petersburg museum. The story is about the impact the painting and the picture affected the spirituality of the author--a religious man--The picture of religous old man and scrawny son. It is believ Jesus' brother.

In Rembrandt's portrait is well defined the characters of the three persons that inspire him for this painting of the Prodigal Son.

I am a cradle Catholic and found this book to be very helpful at explaining the Catholic Mass. I no longer ask "Why do we do that?"

I read this book cover to cover and enjoyed it very much. It is easy to read and is organized thoughtfully inline with each step of the Mass.

This book takes you step by step through the Catholic Mass. Along the way, it suggests ways to help you maintain focus while praying. It gives very good insight about the different aspects of the Mass.

FYI, I enjoyed this book so much, I purchased the other three "How to" books - on Catholic Devotions..., read the Bible..., and the Sacramentals...

If you are new to the Catholic faith or are considering a return, consider my humble opinion about this book and the others.

I found all of these books very resourceful, useful, and interesting.

Each book is a gem. They will help you understand and guide you with your Catholic faith.

As a Catholic convert, who did not receive a lot of information when I converted, I didn't have a lot of answers for my granddaughter. I am raising her, and she is making her first communion. This book has been very helpful to both of us.

Growing up in the Catholic church, there are a lot of little things we're taught to do, but when someone asks us why - we may be stumped! The Catholic Church has a REASON behind everything! The more you know, the more you treasure the tradition! Don't just let mass become rote for you - understand the meanings and you will appreciate the depth of the mass. How thougtful were those who suggested these things for us to constantly reflect on God's wonder and love, our humanity, and the relationship and plans He has for us now and forever.

The How-To Book of the Mass: Everything You Need to Know but No One Ever Taught You by Michael Dubruiel is a book that will teach you everything about the Mass. Even if you have gone to Mass your whole life there still may be things you don't know. Well this book will tell you everything including when you should bow or genuflect and what the different books you use are for.

If you are still desiring Spiritual Enlightenment in a seemingly hopeless world, May I suggest you read My non-fiction book as well. (See Profile Above)

I have been waiting years for a book like this. It is a clear, concise, straightforward, and meaningful explanation of the entire Mass. It starts before we open the doors (which have significant and poignant meaning themselves), and continues to us standing outside those same doors after Mass, while explaining everything in between. The reasons and origins of all practices are clearly examined and have led to a much, much richer and more meaningful experience when I attend the Mass. I can't recommend the book highly enough. I am a cradle Catholic, and from the time the Mass was in Latin, all the way to the present time, I have never had a clear understanding of all parts of the Mass. Now I do.

This book is a very insightful way of looking at the catholic church's perspective on modern times...a must read!

Archbishop Chaput is one of the true gems in the American Catholic Church today. If more bishops of the past 50 years had half as much courage as him, our country would be a different and better place today.

He does a marvelous job of presenting in rational terms the necessity of actually living out what one holds to be true without compromise. The martyr today looks different than she or he did in the early days of the Church, but we are called to be faithful in the same way.

He is the perfect mirror opposite of someone like the late Fr. Robert Drinan, SJ, who was a member of the House of Representatives (D-MA). Although Drinan believed abortion to be "virtual infanticide," he was still an outspoken supporter of abortion rights. Shockingly, Drinan spoke out in support of President Bill Clinton's veto of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act in 1996.

Archbishop Chaput, unlike the contemporary Drinans (Fr. Jenkins of Notre Dame?), is serious about what he believes whether it is popular or not. That is why I loved his book and respect him as a courageous man.

Archbishop Chaput has written a thoughtful and thought-provoking book about the proper role of religion in the public square. Does the average American desire freedom "for" religion or freedom "from" religion. Consider this book seriously if you want to know whether your conscience should have a voice in the world today.

Archbishop Chaput retells the origin of Christian political activity in the U.S., then makes a compelling call for Catholic Americans to live out their faith in the public square. Chaput's historical and theological foundation is sound and well thought. His practical arguments against popular secular humanist thinking are convincing because they not only make sense, but have a tradition going all the way back to Jesus and the apostles who preached the gospel while standing up to the Jewish authority in Jerusalem and the Roman empire. America, this is your wake up call.

RENDER UNTO CAESAR is an easy and informative read. Archbishop Chaput's theme of Christian love weaves its way through the book. Those who opt out with "government is a necessary evil", may find Chaput's book suggesting that "government is necessary, evil is optional." Catholic citizenship duties fall on all persons within the Church. The behavioral mark of the Early Church was Love. Chaput suggests that because of the success of Christian Charity, Constantine's conversion was an inevitable recognition of the strength of Christian culture at the time.

Catholics are to be known by their Love, Chaput directs the reader away from a "feel good" faith into sharing the hard work of a loving life and death with example: St. Thomas More.

Chaput also details the life of Cardinal Carroll of Baltimore during and after the American Declaration of Independence, which set the stage for Catholic involvement and contributions to American culture. American anti-Catholicism and anti-Clericalism have shaped the Church's actions, but have not suppressed it's vitality and charity. America's founding documents, the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, have influenced the thinking of Pope's over the centuries, which Chaput notes as a positive development in assessing the relationship of Caesar and God.

The Archbishop discusses Vatican II and the roles played by John Paul II and Benedict XVI during the Council. Interpreting the Council has been difficult, but the encyclicals coming from it are instructive for American Catholic formation. Those seeking fire and brimstone will be disappointed, as will those seeking a go-with-the-flow Faith.

This is a book that can be shared by Catholics without fear of appearing partisan, but truly concerned with encouraging dialogue within the parish or when encountering politicians and the media.

This is a great compendium, which, when coupled with the The Catechism of the Council of Trent, offers an excellent catechesis in the Catholic faith. Remember, though, it is not meant as a replacement of the actual Catechism; rather, it is a summary of it.

Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church by Joseph Ratzinger; Pope Benedict XVI is a book of questions and answers on Catholic teaching. One will learn about common prayers and Catholic doctrinal formulas. You will learn all about Jesus Christ by reading the parts of the Compendium of the Catechism. It is a great teaching aid for anyone interested in the Catholic religion or thinking of joining. You may think you know everything about the faith until you read just how much more there is.

If you are desiring Spiritual Enlightenment in a seemingly hopeless world, May I suggest you read My non-fiction book as well. (See Profile Above)

Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church
Great book to have in your home if one is at all interested to know lots of information on Catholicism. Even practicing catholics can learn a lot.
Great book!

This book helps make the catechism easily understood. Great for reading as it combines several sections and
explains them for the student, youth or adult.

The Compendium of Catechism of the Catholic Church is an excellent "condensation" (the right word to use escapes me now)of the Catechism. It's written in clear, easy-to-understand English without sounding pedestrian. It's in question and answer format but still following the CCC outline. It is not a substitute however for the CCC which might take much longer to read. But if you want a quick and easy reference to answer your own or others's questions, this is very helpful lest you want to lose the opportunity for some "apostolate" work. It took me less than three days to leisurely read the whole book. And now using it as quick reference as I read the CCC at the same time.

I have been impressed with the way Pope Benedict XVI writes. I suspect, much of the content of this book, reflect his personal style of writing. After all, he (as Cardinal Ratzinger) presided over the ICC that prepared the Compendium. The copy I have is the one printed by the USCCB. The texts are clearly printed and very legible. The choices of the of the photos and annotations are excellent. Another great feature of this publication is the compilation of popular prayers and devotions in English and in Latin so you won't need to have a separate prayer book while studying this one.

I would have given this copy 5 stars, but the binding broke apart after one reading. Although this could be a problem resulting from my country's climate.

All I want to do at present is study the Gospels with a little help from Scott Hahn, so I think Hahn's books on the Gospels of Mark and Matthew would be a more appropriate beginning point for a recently converted Catholic to begin reading the Gospels for the first time since conversion from Anglicanism. I already know about the covenantal relationship developed between God and the Hebrews in the Torah. Any advice from a fellow Christian, particularly a fellow Roman Catholic, will be very much appreciated.

Dr. Hahn has yet another winner with this easy-to-read book! One of the big bases of his scriptural analyses is the theme of God's covenant with His people. This book is a real treasure, explaining the covenental promises of the Lord in language and style that's easily understood. As with all his books, this is presented in Dr. Hahn's reader-friendly style.

This book is incredible. Scott Hahn did his dissertation in covenant theology, and this book goes through the 6 covenants in an easy to understand manner.

This book gives a very clear overview of what the Bible is all about. It takes the reader step by step through God's ever-growing relationships with people.

Dr. Hahn has a genius for making complicated concepts easy to understand. He leads us through the Old Testament and shows us how the old covenant leads up to and culminates in the Last Supper and crucifixion; and the new covenant begins with the resurrection and is perpetuated through the Eucharist. I have a much better understanding of the crucifixion and the Eucharist now that Hahn has put it into the context of Jewish history. My only complaint is Hahn's casual -- sometimes chatty -- writing style and occasional paraphrasing of biblical exchanges into modern American vernacular. While I understand that this book was written for a broad audience, I was still mildly irritated; that said, Hahn's brilliant insight makes this quip hardly worth mentioning.

Henri Nouwen wrote this book as a letter to a secular friend. The friend asked him to explain the nature of his spiritual strength in a way that non religious people can understand and embrace. Not an easy task, but Nouwen does as good a job as anything I've ever read. He's a very credible source, because although a highly spiritual and faith filled person, he has also been in the world, and seems to have been bloodied just like the rest of us.

Nouwen tries to convey our relationship to God and the nature of our souls by comparing us to the Eucharist - we are Taken, Blessed, Broken, and Given. A few excerpts -

"When the deepest currents of our life no longer have any influence on the waves at the surface, then our vitality will eventually ebb, and we will end up listless and bored even when we are busy."

"When we keep claiming the light, we will find ourselves becoming more and more radiant. What fascinates me so much is that every time we decide to be grateful it will be easier to see new things to be grateful for. Gratitude begets gratitude, just as love begets love."

"It is remarkable how easy it is to bless others, to speak good things to and about them, to call forth their beauty and truth, when you yourself are in touch with your own blessedness."

Nouwen challenges us to pause, to look into the depths of our souls. He says that we will find God there, and then we will see the world, with all its harshness, in the right perspective. There is a certain comfort in that, but Nouwen is far from holding up faith as a magic bullet comfort pill for our spiritual restlessness. We will still be broken, but we will see our brokenness in a new light.

This book does not "push" and particular set of beliefs, and ought to appeal to people regardless of their religion by virtue of its deep insights into our deepest selves.

I loved the tone in which this book was written- very upbeat, to the point and direct. I also really liked how it did not exclude anyone from God's love. This book is a great reminder that we're all loved very much by God, and we should all express our love and thanks for each other as much as possible. As a Christian it's sometimes easy to forget some of the simple things and these words of encouragement were fantastic to read. This book was recommended to me by a wonderful person and I have read it twice since getting it- my only complaint is it's a bit short!

Henri Nouwen is a very good writer. His writings, and LIFE OF THE BELOVED is no exception, are very thought provoking. They are written as if he is in conversation with you. It is very profound yet in very readable language. I would recommend it to those looking for answers on "how to live in this secular world in the Spirit." It is very self affirming with the purpose of not only for self but how to self affirm others.

This book was written to explain the essence of the spiritual life to Nouwen's secular, journalist friend. Nouwen doubts the intended effect was realized, but the book has encouraged many Christians' journeys. In search of "the most intimate truth about all human beings," Nouwen concludes that "you are the beloved" is the best formulation. The subsequent chapters break down the major ways in which our beloved state should be understood and practical tips on internalizing the truth. This book is a real treasure that challenges us to change the way that we view ourselves. Rather than believing we're unacceptable and unlovable, Nouwen is quick to say that we are beloved of God from before the world was created. Our fundamental identity is that of being blessed and not cursed as we often come to believe. This identity is so important that Nouwen asserts it should permeate every moment of our existence. He explains it best:

"When our deepest truth is that we are the Beloved and when our greatest joy and peace come from fully claiming that truth, it follows that this has to become visible and tangible in the ways we eat and drink, talk and love, play and work."

This book should not only be read. The underlying truths desperately need to be internalized by countless people who know God but fail to operate under the blessings freely offered.

Life of the Beloved is an apologia written by Henri Nouwen to his secular friends. This is an up-to-date version of other books that have appeared for many years, and it is very relevant to life in the twenty first century. Although, as Nouwen admits, this book will probably not convert secularists to people living in the Spirit, but it does give an excellent summary of Nouwen's other writings and a great overview of what in means to live in the Kingdom of God - to be one of God's beloved. It is an uplifting and reaffirming book.

I own several chumashim (plural of chumash, a volume with the text of the Torah) and while this is not the only one to which I refer, it is one of the more common references that I make.
The text is attractive to the eye in a comfortable font, it has the Aramaic translations by Onkelos (a standard in all-Hebrew editions), it has the original Hebrew commentary by Rashi, and a fairly readable translation.
Being Modern Orthodox and not quite as far to the right of the Jewish religious spectrum as the editors, I'm not quite on the same page as the editors in their commentary. I would sooner see more of Rabbi Samson Rafael Hirsch and Jacob Hertz quoted.
This does not, in my opinion take away from the work, but two things do: I would find the translations easier to read if it were not in italics and (much more importantly) the passing off of Rashi commentary on Song of Songs as a "translation" is far less than honest, no matter what they believe the text is an allegory about the relationship between G-d and Israel or a love poem (more likely it is both).

This is such an excellent source for those who want to understand the Old Testament and the history. I find the rabbinical commentaries, as well as Hebrew meanings of the words, fascinating. It brings so much more depth and understanding to the scriptures. And, the used book I got is in excellent condition.

great book, provides great insight. A must have study guide of the Torah. Half Hebrew with Hebrew commentary and Half English with commentary written by respected Rabbi. It has the Torah readings, Maftir and haftarah for festivals and other special occasions. Good for non-jews, who want to study the Torah

If one were to purchase only one Chumash, this should definitely be the one, regardless of the denomination to which one adheres. The translation is excellent (and in my personal opinion, far more readable than the JPS version), and the commentary is very helpful. I will note that this is an Orthodox Chumash, and the commentary does reflect that--it's heavy on rabbinical references, and where disagreements arise, defers to Rashi.

It's nicely printed--very durable, surprisingly thick paper for such books, and the text is pleasantly large and easy on the eyes--probably Times New Roman, 12-14 point, would be the best comparison. My only issue is that the English translation is set in italics, which is a very minor thing. It's also larger than some of the other volumes out there, even some single-volume editions of the entire Tanakh. But with the larger print, it's very well worth it.

I do, however, disagree with a previous reviewer that this is 'only a starting point.' Rather, I've found that it grows with the reader (though one should always read multiple commentaries). The Hebrew text is well-printed, clear and in a large size, with both vowels and cantillation markings. Sections that use a different trope depending on whether they're being read at home or in the synagogue (ex. the Ten Commandments in Exodus) have both versions given. Additionally, Rashi's commentary is included in Hebrew, in the traditional Rashi script. The Targum Onkelos is printed alongside the Hebrew text, useful for those learning Aramaic in preparation for Talmud study in the original.

The haftarot are also included (English and Hebrew) with a brief introduction relating each to the parashah it accompanies, but otherwise there is little commentary. Other references include maps, an index, and illustrations (ex. of the priestly vestments).

In conclusion, if one is looking for a single-volume Chumash, this one is highly recommended, particularly for converts and those returning to Judaism after many years away, and who are thus not as familiar with the material.

Artscroll [...] publishes this volume, making it available also in other colors and sizes.

The Chumash is just beautiful and well worth the price. I study Torah weekly on the phone with a friend across country and we both use The Chumash. It really enhances our learning experience. I especially enjoy reading the commentaries. The book is of very high quality. I know I will treasure this book forever.

An Infinity of Little Hours and Nancy Klein Maguire transport readers to the 11th century, more precisely to a monastery of Cathusians. Rather than a time machine Maguire employs primarily the memories of 5 former monks augmented with those of several dozen other monks. The book safeguards these memories as the past 30 years have seen influences of the outside world infiltrate and threaten to overcome the Cathusians. They had sustained, since their founding in France, the most austere and perhaps even severe order in the western world.

A parallel but larger purpose to the book's preservation of the monks' temporal lives, well documented in fascinating detail, is the quest for understanding. The permanence of eleven centuries of minutiae of daily office is dwarfed by the permanence of human nature: Who am I ? Who is God ? What is the world ? What is the relationship among us ? The experiences of five monks and the understanding they grasp and even more importantly what they don't grasp provide an infinity of contemplation, wonderment, and even astonishment. Highly recommended.

Nancy Macquire will take you there. The rigid schedule, limited food and seemingly constant cold, come through this well written and carefully researched story. Anyone interested in monastic life will find this book fascinating.

Written with great insight and empathy. It's like being in the first row of the orchestra watching the daily lives of the monks. Thank you, Ms. Maguire.

This was a fantastic book! I think the other reviews described the book well. This book was absolutely amazing.

Reading "An Infinity of Little Hours," I was, somewhat to my surprise, drawn deeply into the ascetic world of this Carthusian monastery in England through the stories of the five men who entered in 1960. The book becomes an unlikely page turner as you wonder who among the five will be able to endure the silence, the alone-ness, the cold, and other privations in order to become closer to God, which was their motivation for joining this most austere of all religious orders.

The small details and trials of contemporary monastic life, little changed from the order's founding in the 11th century, are precisely described here and form a compelling counterpoint to the men's psychic yearning for the spiritual. You might both experience the "feel" of a hairshirt yet also "hear" the sweetness of a chant well-sung. You can share the frustration of one musically trained monk with his tone-deaf brothers.

Reader's tip: Keep a bookmark in the page that lists the monks' secular and religious names (it can be confusing keeping track of who is who).

This book will appeal to the religious and non-religious alike who share a fascination with those whose search for God sets them apart from our materialistic and secular society. "An Infinity of Little Hours" depicts a world which few of us would or could enter but which is nevertheless as fascinating to observe as any other rarified culture.