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Best Catholicism

A Pope and a President: John Paul II, Ronald Reagan, and the Extraordinary Untold Story of the 20th Century
The many similarities and the spiritual bond between the pope and the president—and how Reagan privately spoke of the “DP”: the Divine Plan to take down communism New details about how the Protestant Reagan became intensely interested in the “secrets of Fátima,” which date to the reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary at Fátima, Portugal, starting on May 13, 1917—­sixty-four years to the day before John Paul II was shot A startling insider account of how the USSR may have been set to invade the pope’s native Poland in March 1981—only to pull back when news broke that Reagan had been shot. Nancy Reagan called John Paul II her husband’s “closest friend”; Reagan himself told Polish visitors that the pope was his “best friend.” When you read this book, you will understand why. He shows the depth of [John Paul II and Reagan’s] friendship (including secret letters shuttled to Rome by New Jersey Democrat Peter Rodino) starting only weeks after both men survived assassination attempts.” — World magazine. “This book superbly captures and perfectly portrays the profound depth of the bond between John Paul II and Ronald Reagan. You cannot understand why Soviet communism collapsed unless you have a good grasp of just how extraordinarily deep was the bond that existed between those two great leaders of the 20th century. “Kengor makes clear just how central the defeat of the Soviet Union was to Reagan’s personal project.” — National Review. “Provides authoritative insight into Reagan’s campaign to destroy Soviet Communism.” — Richard Pipes , professor of history, emeritus, Harvard University.
Reviews
"The book also chronicles some of the history of the Catholic Church's stand against Communism when the rest of the world seemed to see it as less of a threat."
"this is one of the most fasinating bios on president reagan that I have read in along time the research that the writer has done on these two historical giants who encouraged so many people and brought freedom to countless individuels is very amazing."
"Finding both contrasts and parallels in the lives of Saint John Paul II and President Ronald Reagan, the author shows how their interaction and alignment of temporal and divine forces broke the back of the Soviet Union."
"This is an account of the partnership between St John Paul the Great and Ronaldus Magnus (Ronald Reagan)."
"Though Pope John Paul II and Ronald Reagan will be remembered as the pope and the president who defeated Communism, the exact nature of their relationship has been a bit of an enigma."
"This is a long read but well worth it - we used it as a Bible Study offering and it was very interesting hearing the different interpretations of the same happenings."
"I knew that John Paul 11 and the President worked together to bring down communism but had no idea how they did it."
"This is an excellent account of two very important persons during the Cold War."
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33 Days to Morning Glory: A Do-It-Yourself Retreat In Preparation for Marian Consecration
Michael E. Gaitley, MIC, author of the bestselling book Consoling the Heart of Jesus, comes an extraordinary 33-day journey to Marian consecration with four giants of Marian spirituality: St. Louis de Montfort, St. Maximilian Kolbe, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, and Blessed John Paul II. Fr.Michael E. Gaitley, MIC, is director of Evangelization for the Marian Fathersof the Immaculate Conception and director of Formation for the MarianMissionaries of Divine Mercy.
Reviews
"This book allowed me to read the section for each day in the morning so at any time throughout the rest of the day I could think more about it."
"This book helps explain Marian consecration in a way that is simple, understandable and doable."
"I cannot recommend it enough to those who feel drawn to consecrate themselves to Jesus through Mary our little, little Mother."
"Father Michael Gaitley does a brilliant job of sharing the TRUTH of Christ and His Mother . In this excellent book, Father Michael utilizes the teachings of many of his predecessors including soon-to-be Saint John Paul the Great, Blessed Mother Theresa and Saint Louis de Montfort."
"I know some get hung up on St. Louis de Montfort's treatment of "slavery". He gives the grace and mercy to complete each day to the best of our abilities."
"Every person who would like a clearer understanding about the Mother of God and the role she plays in salvation history, until the end of time, should read and pray through this book."
"This is a popular way to consecrate yourself to Jesus through Mary."
"Loved the book."
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Drinking with the Saints: The Sinner's Guide to a Holy Happy Hour
Pub crawl your way through the sacred seasons with this entertaining and useful collection of cocktail recipes, distilled spirits, beer, and wine for virtually every occasion on the Catholic liturgical calendar. Michael Foley offers the faithful drinker witty and imaginative instruction on the appropriate libations for the seasons, feasts, and saints' days of the Church year.
Reviews
"The new house has a wet bar and this is the perfect item to have sitting next to the sink for a quick read."
"The author's humor and obvious love of the Catholic tradition combine to make a genuine guide (and excuse) to celebrate the faith year round and do it in just the right way."
"It's a very large book and it looks nice sitting on the table."
"Humorous."
"But not before I order 3 more copies :-) ... excellent gift ... beautifully bound with everything from saint history to cocktail know-how tips and tricks."
"Funny book, but also had real history."
"I am having fun reading about various saints and getting into mixing my own drinks for dinner parties."
"We love this book for many reasons."
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Best Christian Mariology

Rediscover the Rosary: The Modern Power of an Ancient Prayer
Our Catholic spirituality is constantly inviting us to establish the deep roots of order in our lives, and one of the best ways I know to do that is by praying the Rosary. It reaches deep down into our souls and puts us at ease, creating a peace that is rare and beautiful. It makes me a better son, brother, husband, father, employer, neighbor, citizen, and member of the human family. Develop a habit of praying the Rosary, and discover the treasures of this powerful, ancient prayer.
Reviews
"with my children, many times over to just finishing this read and devouring it in 4 sittings over 2 days. It all Started with 'Rediscover Advent' back in 2015, and now in the fall of 2017 I am reading 'Rediscover the Rosary' and absolutely loved it. Well To start with everything I have read by Matthew Kelly has been excellent, he writes in such an engaging and succinct style. And I feel this statement by Matthew is bang on: "Prayer makes me a better person. It makes me a better friend, a better father, a better husband, a better son and brother, a better employer and leader, a better citizen of this country, and a better member of the human family. It makes me a better son, brother, husband, father, employer, neighbor, citizen, and a better member of the human family. It brings an incredible peace; it teaches us to slow down, calm down, let go, surrender, and listen. Generally I have discovered that when I make time for this simple but profound practice of prayer, I am a better person. When I have the discipline to pray the Rosary regularly, I seem to have a certain calmness and a heightened awareness, which makes me more readily disposed to living a life of virtue." Kelly does not present a formula, but he speaks from his own experience and the benefits from praying it more often. This is another great read by Matthew Kelly, and I know reading and applying the advice in it, will help transform your prayer life, your life, and help you become the best version of yourself!"
"Bought for the wife as a Christmas gift and she enjoys it."
"Easy to read and understand."
"As usual Matthew Kelly's books teach me a lot about the topic."
"I am a huge Matthew Kelly fan and this book is great."
"Matthew Kelly's work is renewing the Church."
"Easy to read and very wonderful ly written."
"Kelly is an outstanding author."
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Best Roman Catholicism

The Lamb's Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth
Beautifully written, in clear direct language, bestselling Catholic author Scott Hahn's new book will help readers see the Mass with new eyes, pray the liturgy with a renewed heart, and enter into the Mass more fully, enthusiastically, intelligently, and powerfully than ever before. The Lamb's Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth reawakens a surprising ancient view of the Eucharist, as the harbinger of the supernatural drama described by the New Testament book of Revelation.
Reviews
"If you have any questions about what the Catholic mass represents this is a book that really will inlighten your understanding of what is taking place at the altar of Christ."
"Totally made Mass much clearer, as to why we do what we do and pray what we pray as Catholics during our celebration of the Eucharist and Liturgy of the Word."
"Awesome book!"
"Helps one understand that Mass is not just a service to go to, it more a family meal."
"awesome book!!"
"Truly a marvelous connecting of the dots."
"Scott Hahn is my favorite spiritual author."
"Dr. Hahn uses his deep understanding of the Old and New Testaments to reveal the presence of the Mass in all its glory in the Book of Revelations."
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Best Self Help for Catholics

Happiness in This Life: A Passionate Meditation on Earthly Existence
A collection of homilies, speeches, and “messages of the day” that brings together Pope Francis’s wisdom on finding happiness in the here and now For Pope Francis, the appreciation of our everyday lives is a spiritual undertaking. Every homily and speech in this book delivers, in warm, engaging language accessible to believers and nonbelievers alike, a key lesson, instructing readers on finding love and happiness in a chaotic world. Along the way, Pope Francis discusses the sanctity of women’s rights, talks about how the love of sports can bring out our best qualities, and explains why fighting discrimination is the essence of loving thy neighbor. “Though the title of the book mentions happiness, this collection of thoughts addresses something much deeper—joy. Bringing together excerpts from Pope Francis’s sermons, speeches, prayers, and addresses, these pieces address a range of themes, from mercy and humility to simplicity and family. Bringing together excerpts from Pope Francis’s sermons, speeches, prayers, and addresses, these pieces address a range of themes, from mercy and humility to simplicity and family. A book as loving and encouraging as the man himself seems to be.”— Booklist “With this wide-ranging collection of writings, homilies, and addresses, the current pontiff dispels any notion that religious practice is dour and antiquated. It brings together the pope’s most affecting passages to inspire Catholics (and those of other faiths) to lift up those around them.”— Publishers Weekly “Reminiscent of the gentle encouragement of the Dalai Lama .
Reviews
"Being a Human Person through the meditation of our Holy Father, the Pope. Pope Francis’ book focuses on “A Passionate Meditation on Earthly Existence”. He divides his meditation into four major sections: “Your Search for a Meaningful Life, You and Others: Happiness in Your Relationships, A Hundredfold Reward, Plus Suffering (and lastly), Those Who Pray Live Serenely.” The Pope as a major influence in our society starts his meditation with the recitation of the Beatitudes. Some of the homilies include topics such as: never be afraid to take the risk of being happy and Jesus’s choice is our freedom In the next section, there are homilies about how we should be as a human person with Christ as the center the joy of God is the presence of Jesus among us. The Pope helps us to think/pray about the fact that in our society many chose to live alone as a meaningful way of experiencing God in their lives. I would recommend each of us to read this book as our Pope helps us to deepen and broaden our relationship with Christ and His Church in order to make our society more filled with compassion, mercy and kindness."
"This is exactly what I expected - perfect!"
"My friend was thrilled to receive the book."
"Per the translator, Oonagh Stransky, this book is a collection of “excerpts from homilies, speeches, meetings, addresses, and exhortations delivered by Pope Francis since 2013.” These words explain how to find happiness in THIS life and are broken down into five sections: * Introduction: The Path of Happiness. * Your Search for a Meaningful Life. * You and Others: Happiness in Your Relationships. * A Hundredfold Reward – Plus Suffering. * They Who Pray Live Serenely. Great collection, culminating in a selection of prayers (some written by the Pope himself), which many people are sure to find inspirational."
"This easy to read collection of parts of sermons, speeches, meetings, addresses, and exhortations by Pope Francis since 2013 do, of course, emphasize the importance of adoring and serving Jesus and his mother Mary and being a good Catholic. The book contains very conservative notions such as his warning to women who assume “roles that have been copied from the male domain and that ignore the precious feminine traits that characterize womanhood.” It includes religious ideas such as “They who pray live serenely.” And “The real Christian prayer says: Father.” But it also has many remarks that could be helpful to non-Catholics, even atheists, because the book speaks about living a happy life and how to do it. For example, the collector of his remarks includes the following: If there is one thing that characterizes the saints, it is that they are genuinely happy."
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Best Catholic Theology

Hail, Holy Queen
Bestselling author, Scott Hahn illuminates a fresh and enlightening perspective on Mary, Mother of God, and her central importance in the Christian faith . Hail, Holy Queen: The Mother of God in the Word of God is theologian Scott Hahn's follow-up to his bestselling The Lamb's Supper . Readers outside Catholicism who are mystified by the centrality of Mary in Catholic devotion, and Catholics who wish to become more knowledgeable and reflective about a central aspect of their faith, will be especially drawn to Hail, Holy Queen . Hahn also deals carefully with the Catholic Church's teaching on Mary's immaculate conception and assumption into heaven, and answers the objections of those who, as he once did, regard devotion to Mary as akin to goddess worship. Although he writes mainly to enlighten fellow Catholics about the basis for the Church's great reverence for Mary, Hahn's well-researched work will be instructive to anyone interested in the history of the Church's teaching on this subject.
Reviews
"A very well written book that has increased my relationship with my Blessed Mother it has been a beautiful way to increase my faith I do recommend."
"This time he took me through a topic I love: why we should love and honor our Blessed Mother, the Mother of God."
"I've read many of this author's books and he never disappoints."
"Much prefer Life of Union with Mary and True Devotion to Mary!"
"Interesting and informative."
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Best Catechisms

Catechism of the Catholic Church: Second Edition
Using the tradition of explaining what the Church believes (the Creed), what she celebrates (the Sacraments), what she lives (the Commandments), and what she prays (the Lord's Prayer), the Catechism of the Catholic Church offers challenges for believers and answers for all those interested in learning about the mystery of the Catholic faith. Catechism of the Catholic Church is the first new edition of the catechism in 400 years.
Reviews
"it will help me increase my knowledge and faith."
"easy to read and to find interpretations."
"bought it for a friend hope he reads it."
"excellent service/product."
"Awesome resource for life."
"Excellent gift for confirmation."
"I learned things I did not know."
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Best Monasticism & Asceticism

The Seven Storey Mountain
It tells of the growing restlessness of a brilliant and passionate young man whose search for peace and faith leads him, at the age of twenty-six, to take vows in one of the most demanding Catholic orders--the Trappist monks. Thomas Merton (1915-1968) was born in France and came to live in the United States at the age of 24.
Reviews
"fantastic copy of the 1st edition, excellent condition -- and the book/story is riveting."
"This is one of the very best books out of many hundreds that I have read."
"The 50th edition of The Seven Storey Mountain has added information pertinent to understanding Merton from the publisher Giroux and Shannon."
"Truly inspirational for me at a time of deepening spiritual faith."
"Fascinating read!"
"I found the early narration rather tedious trekking from home to home, in and out of schools with mixed anecdotal commentary on Merton's early life and adolescence."
"This famous autobiography chronicles the author's life from childhood up to the point as a young man he makes the bold decision to enter the Trappist order. Eventually his love for God becomes a passion of awesome proportions, enabling him to bring his life into a wonderous balance, inspiring him to write some of the most influential religious reflections of our age or perhaps any age."
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Best Christian Ecumenism

Why We're Catholic: Our Reasons for Faith, Hope, and Love
This is the number-one question Catholics get asked and, sometimes, we ask ourselves. Ever since he became Catholic, Trent Horn has spent a lot of time answering these questions, trying to explain to friends, family, and total strangers the reasons for his Catholic faith Some didn t believe in God, or even in the existence of truth. Why We re Catholic must find a home on every Catholic s bookshelf; I promise you, it will gather no dust.
Reviews
"I read this book right after reading Why I Am Catholic (and You Should Be Too) by Brandon Vogt. In some ways there is a number of similarities, and both speak specifically about the example of Saint Damien of Molokai. This was also the 10th book by Trent Horn that I have read this year. With each of his books that I read I am more impressed with his writing, his faith, his knowledge and his love of sharing these three things. Why We Believe There’s a Hell. 25.Why We Hope for Heaven. How to Become Catholic. How to Go to Confession. Common Catholic Prayers. Endnotes. Two sections in the book immediately struck a chord with me; first the section on Saint Damien or Molokai, of whom I have been reading about and researching for over a decade now. But let’s go back to the beginning, in the introduction Trent states: “I don’t look at people who’ve left the Catholic Church or who aren’t Catholic as potential “customers.” They’re just people. Instead, I’ve presented the reasons that made the biggest impact on me during my conversion to the Catholic faith.”. This book is designed to strengthen your faith, and help you be able to explain it and defend it. Throughout the book there are ‘side boxes’ pieces that explain deeper, or give examples of what is being talked about in that section of the book. Another great feature is that each chapter ends with three or more bullet points reinforcing what Catholics believe from the topic of that specific chapter. • Calvary Chapel, 1965: Chuck Smith. • Mormon church, 1830: Joseph Smith. • Disciples of Christ, 1809: Thomas Campbell. • Baptist church, 1609: John Smyth. • Presbyterian church, 1560: John Knox. • Calvinist church, 1536: John Calvin. • Lutheran church, 1517: Martin Luther. • Eastern Orthodox church, 1054: Eastern Patriarchs. • Catholic Church, 33: Jesus Christ. And at the end of the book is a mini prayer book of common prayers. I have read just shy of 200 books so far this year, of those 200, 105 were Catholic and this is one of the best out of all of that reading."
"It didn't really get at the reason as to "why" other than things a cradle Catholic like myself already knew."
"Great book to explain the Catholic faith."
"This is an Amazing book that explains the Catholic faith with clarity to everyone!"
"The great job explaining some of the misconceptions of the Catholic faith and clearing up some of the so-called rumors."
"As a cradle Catholic, it serves as a powerful reminder what this religion is all about."
"Great explanation of our faith."
"Im starting RCIA in august and this was a big help for me."
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Best Jesus, the Gospels & Acts

The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith
Now, in The Prodigal God, Keller takes his trademark intellectual approach to understanding Christianity and uses the parable of the Prodigal Son to reveal an unexpected message of hope and salvation.
Reviews
"Great thought provoking book for individual or group study."
"In this book he talks about the lost sons."
"I loved this book."
"The way he shed new light on this parable makes it an enjoyable read for anyone, no matter where you are in your walk with God. I'm very left brained and a very linear thinking (this plus this equals this), so the way he broke everything down and showed the symbolism was very eye opening."
"The book focuses on the the character failings of the older brother which are self righteous and greed as well as the obvious sins of the younger brother."
"Though it is a short book, it took me a week to read it as each chapter was so thoughtfully writing and amazing."
"If you grew up in a legalistic rule-producing church you need to read this!!!"
"We have, no doubt, all heard in many sermons that the father represents God and the younger or "prodigal" son refers those whom rebel, are disobedient and lead sinful lives. After the younger son has run out of money and realizes his error, he seeks his father's forgiveness which he readily receives. He spent what he had to become human, and by temporarily separating from God, the Father, and by his death on the cross paid the ultimate sacrifice to save man-kind from our sins."
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