#thecatholicbookworm

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Leisa Marie Carzon, on her book Sister, Soldier, Surgeon: The Life and Courage of Sister Deirdre Byrne, M.D.  (February 24, 2025) Meet a modern-day Joan of Arc. Whether in scrubs, camouflage, or a religious habit, Sr. Dede Byrne, in her threefold calling as a professed religious sister, renowned surgeon, and U.S. Army colonel, inspire us to both virtue and action. If the apostles had remained hidden in the Upper Room, we would never have a Church today. Similarly, Sister’s inspirational life serves as a call to emerge from the safety of the Upper Room and enter the public square to courageously infuse culture with an unapologetic defense of Christ’s beauty, truth, and goodness. Whether saving lives on battlefields or outside the doors of abortion clinics, this exciting narrative offers a rare glimpse into the life of a contemporary heroine who dedicates herself to care of the poor, love of God and country, and an unwavering defense of the unborn.  These exhilarating pages detail: 

Sister’s journey in discerning and living her vocational calling and her personal vow of providing free and loving medical care to the poor

Her heroic national keynote address that took the nation by storm and embodied the essence of courageously living one’s faith in the public square

The moral prescriptions required for remaining in the state of grace and attaining eternal life

The impactful way Sister proposes Christ to everyone she meets with fearless abandon and determined love.

Sr. Dede ministered at Ground Zero on September 11, served as St. Mother Teresa’s personal physician, was deployed as a surgeon to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom, facilitated the rescue of citizens hiding from the Taliban, and travels regularly to the war-torn Nuba Mountains in Sudan to provide life-saving medical care to inhabitants under siege. Dubbed “the Mother Teresa of D.C.,” Sr. Dede continues to provide medical care to the marginalized from her convent basement clinic and administer the abortion pill reversal procedure that has resulted in the delivery of more than a dozen healthy babies. At home and abroad, she spreads her message of love and her exhortations for remaining in the state of grace so that we might all attain our eternal end — eternity with God in Heaven. Sister, Soldier, Surgeon - Sophia Institute Press

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Antony Kolenc on his new series "The Incarnate". (February 19, 2025) October, 2007. Joshua Christiansen thinks he’s just an ordinary teen, ready to graduate high school and infatuated with his best friend Rachel…until Agent Samson shows up and tells him who he really is. Now, while dodging ruthless zealots and evading government plots, he must test the limits of his mind and body as he seeks the truth about himself. Was he truly cloned from the blood of a Eucharistic miracle? Does he really have the power to trigger the End of Days? Or will he be killed, captured, or brainwashed by one of the many people who want to use him for their own ends before he can learn the truth? Praise for Incarnate “With Incarnate, Antony Barone Kolenc has managed to create a narrative of profound theological meaning while at the same telling a genuinely enjoyable story. The more I read, the more the pieces fell in place and it became simultaneously less and more fantastic.” Father Michael Rennier, author of The Forgotten Language: How Recovering the Poetics of the Mass Will Change Our Lives “Incarnate rejects the easy “chosen one” storyline for a troubling, fascinating premise and a journey that challenges protagonist and reader alike. The economical prose complements the fleshed-out, fast-moving narrative, and the characters move believably through a landscape that is engagingly bizarre. With a genuinely shocking climax that spins us off into an uncertain future, Kolenc’s Incarnate is not one to miss!” —Jamey Toner, author of Whisper Music  http://www.antonykolenc.com/the-incarnate-series.html

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Joseph Ruli (author) and Jaclyn Warren (illus) on Giovanni and the Fava Beans (February 18, 2025) Set in Sicily during the Middle Ages, this inviting picture book shares the origins of the St. Joseph Altar tradition. When young Giovanni’s community suffers a terrible drought, he is upset to find fava beans—what he feeds the pigs—on his dinner plate due to the failure of the crops. An encounter with a starving girl sparks a conversion of heart from ingratitude to generosity, and Giovanni looks to heavenly patron St. Joseph to intercede for his community. When rain arrives the answered prayers are celebrated with building altars in honor of St. Joseph (a tradition still carried on in New Orleans and other communities today). With colorful folk art illustrations and instructions for celebrating the St. Joseph’s Altar tradition, families will read this book every St. Joseph’s Day and all through the year. Giovanni and the Fava Beans: The Story of the St. Joseph Altar: Joseph P. Ruli, Jaclyn Warren: 9781685780456: Amazon.com: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Dennis Billy, CSsR, on his chapter entitled "Spiritual Discernment in the book Gender Ideology and Pastoral Practice: A Handbook for Catholic Clergy, Counselors, and Ministerial Leaders, ed. by Theresa Farnan, Susan Selner-Wright, and Robert L. Fastiggi This book has been designed to assist Catholics doing pastoral work and ministering to children and families caught up in a destructive ideology. Questions the editors of this volume and many of the contributors to it have heard most often and have been fielding for over a decade as they have worked with dioceses, parishes, and families include the following:

What is a gender transition?

What does the Church teach on this issue?

How should we respond when a school child tells us he or she is non-binary?

What is the appropriate way for the Church to help and support families when their children say they are transgender?

How do we navigate sacraments and pastoral care?

How did we get here?

In addressing questions such as these, the contributors seek to prepare clergy and lay pastoral ministers to understand and be responsive to the issues that arise in a parish or parochial school setting when someone asserts a “gender identity” that does not align with his or her bodily sex. Gender Ideology and Pastoral Practice: A Handbook for Catholic Clergy, Counselors, and Ministerial Leaders by Theresa Farnan, Susan Selner-Wright, and Robert L. Fastiggi | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Mark C. Roser on his book Blindsided: A Journey from Tragic Loss to Triumphant Love (February 17, 2025) Why is there evil in a world created by a good and all-powerful God?   Ethan Roser, a 19-year-old studying to be a pastor at Wheaton, raised in Africa as the son of faithful missionaries, wrote those words just days before his death due to a freak accident on campus—almost as if he had left a message behind for his parents, siblings, and friends.   After Ethan died his father, Mark Roser, kept his sanity by writing, and wrestling with questions as profound as life itself. God had kept Mark's family safe for 22 years in Africa, doing missionary work; he needed to know why God permitted his son to die now. In Blindsided, he shares the answers to those questions. This book will grip every parent, and it will inspire every person who strives to live for God. Blindsided: A Journey from Tragic Loss to Triumphant Love: Roser, Mark: 9781640606524: Amazon.com: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Bill Waters, OSA, on Smelling Like the Sheep as We Minister to God’s People (February 14, 2025) When Jesus said to go into the whole world and proclaim the Good News, he meant to incorporate his teachings and our faith into the ordinary aspects of our lives. This book includes reflections on practical pastoral life covering topics on family spirituality, marriage preparation, avoiding divorce, practical evangelization, premarital sex, and the role of the pastor, all the while smelling like the sheep. Smelling Like the Sheep as We Minister to God’s People by Fr. Bill Waters, OSA | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Patrick O'Hearn on his book with co-author Dan Burke entitled The Truth about Hell: Through the Wisdom of Jesus, Mary, and the Magisterium (January 30, 2025) Religious leaders do not teach about Hell to scare people to come to Church, though the fear of Hell often leads souls to turn back to God. Hell is the result of mankind’s free will, not God’s malice. French novelist Léon Bloy said: “The only real sadness, the only real failure, the only great tragedy in life, is not to become a saint.” Since only saints are in Heaven, the greatest tragedy, then, is to go to Hell.In these gripping pages, Dan Burke and Patrick O’Hearn present the most common reasons souls go to Hell (you will be shocked!) and how to change your life to ensure that you’re striving for Heaven. At the moment of death, you will experience a particular judgment by God and be sent to either Heaven, Purgatory, or Hell. Your mission in this life, therefore, is to pray, live, and help others to receive the mercy and salvation that God is offering so that you may attain eternity with Him in Paradise. Your soul will be stirred as you discover:

Twelve things Jesus said about Hell, and other Bible passages about this tormenting place

How the evil one tempts souls to doubt the existence of Hell and the possibility of damnation

The Church’s teachings on Hell, and the understanding of several Doctors of the Church about it 

Mystical experiences of the saints regarding Hell, and revelations in Marian apparitions

Five ways to turn away from Satan and open your heart to God’s mercy

Prayers, spiritual resources, and thought-provoking reflection questions for personal or group use 

 Jesus has prepared a place in His Father’s house for His true sons and daughters, but He forces no one to come. Instead, many have and will continue to choose Satan’s horror house, a place of never-ending torture, pain, remorse, and anguish from being separated from God for eternity — a place that can be our final destination if we do not repent and embrace the love and redemption offered by our Savior. Let these pages convict you in your commitment to follow Jesus in this life so that you can spend eternity with Him in the next. The Truth about Hell: Through the Wisdom of Jesus, Mary, and the Magisterium: O'Hearn, Patrick, Burke, Dan: 9798889113546: Amazon.com: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Sr. Gianna Casino, LIHM, and Eileen Spinner on their book Mom, Tell Me Why You're Catholic and Everything Else You Love: A Faith-Based Guided Journal (January 29, 2025) Disclaimer: This guided journal is designed for physical writing and reflection. If you do not own a Kindle Scribe, use Active Canvas, a tablet, or similar device that supports interactive journaling, we highly recommend purchasing the paperback or hardcover edition for the best experience. The physical versions are ideal for engaging fully with the writing prompts and activities included in this journal. Capture the precious stories of your Catholic mother's life journey in this beautifully crafted guided journal! Mom, Tell Me Why You're Catholic and Everything Else You Love bridges faith, family history, and cherished moments through over 100 thoughtfully curated questions. From her childhood adventures to the miracles that deepened her faith, from favorite food to favorite saints, this unique keepsake invites your mother to share in her own words.

When and where were you baptized?

Who was the Pope when you were growing up? What do you remember about him?

How do you know God is real?

If you could have one more meal, what would it be?

What would you want your legacy to be?

Perfect for birthdays, Mother's Day, or any occasion. Whether you're preserving her legacy for her grandchildren or simply deepening your bond, this book is a gift of love, faith, and timeless memories. Start this meaningful journey today and honor the incredible woman who has shared her faith and love with your family! This unique journal is a heartfelt collaboration by the authors who were deeply shaped by the faith of their Catholic mothers, crafted as a way to honor the legacy of all mothers—women whose faith not only shaped their own lives but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who loved them. Mom, Tell Me Why You're Catholic and Everything Else You Love: A Faith-Based Guided Journal - Kindle edition by Casino, Sr. Gianna, Spinner, Eileen. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Pedro Gabriel on his book Rigidity: Faithfulness or Heterodoxy? “Why is Pope Francis always criticizing faithful Catholics?” is an oft-repeated question whenever the Holy Father makes one of his usual invectives against religious rigidity. Francis has indeed made such denunciations a hallmark of his pontificate. But what does he mean by “rigidity”? Is he truly attacking faithful Catholics? Is he promoting moral and religious laxity? In this book, Pedro Gabriel aims at clarifying Pope Francis’ teachings on rigidity, by relating them with certain keywords emerging repeatedly in his interventions. He also seeks to falsify the idea that a Catholic is faithful by being rigid, by comprehensively exploring precedents in Church history where the rigid course of action did not always prevent the faithful from falling into heterodoxy. Finally, Gabriel explains how eschewing rigidity does not necessarily entail the opposite extreme of laxism.  https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/rigidity/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Rich May on his book Addressing Moral Confusion. (January 22, 2025) The goal of this workbook is to help our youth to receive catechetical instruction without getting bogged down by the mindset of the world today, thereby enabling them to be more open to the truth of the Gospel of Christ and His Church. It uniquely addresses these challenges, drawing from The Catechism of the Catholic Church, as well as great theologians and philosophers including C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, Fulton Sheen, St. John Cardinal Newman and others knowledgeable in moral psychology and human behavior. Age group: High school and young adults especially those already enrolled in institutions of higher learning. Not all of them may be practicing Christians. It should be of interest to all teachers including those that are currently working with younger age groups. Parents will also benefit from the material and convey basic themes … example, Session One: “Should you believe everything you hear? https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/addressingmoralconfusion/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Stefanus Hendrianto, SJ, on his book Saturdays with Father Schall. This book, inspired by an essay for Fr. Schall’s 90th birthday, reflects on the author’s relationship with the older Jesuit. It explores themes of “another sort of learning,” intertwining intellectual and spiritual growth, meditations on life and death, and the vocational journey of becoming a priest. Drawing from personal memories, it aims to honor Fr. Schall’s impact on the author’s faith and education. https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/saturdays/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Sr. Helen Adaku Ogbuji on her book Dealing Effectively with Domestic Abuse (January 20, 2025) “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Eph 5:25).This work examines the different faces of violence in our society and how a woman’s body is sometimes treated as an object to be used. When one gender dominates and oppresses another, then the system needs to change. Following this line of argument, the African patriarchal society needs transformation.Many women have suffered abuse at home and in society. Often removed from decisions that affect them, these women live with false stories of violence at home, suffering psychological, sexual, physical, cultural, and economic abuse. Through the grace of God, the reconciliation process starts with the victim of violence. However, the Church must create certain local conditions before reconciliation can take place, including interpreting and using specific gospel passages that refute domestic abuse, emphasizing the recent documents of the Church that promote the dignity of women and family life values, and forming parish support groups to allow victims of abuse to experience healing through rituals, prayers, the sharing of stories, seminars, and workshops.The recommendations and methods enumerated in this work can be effective and fruitful in giving voice to the voiceless, liberation to the oppressed, and healing to the wounded women seeking redemption from their tragic stories.  Dealing Effectively with Domestic Abuse: The Ministry of Reconciliation and Healing by Sr. Helen Adaku Ogbuji, CCVI | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Joseph Freymann on his Summa Apologetica: Catholic Apologetics and Moral Questions (January 9, 2025) Summa Apologetica is for adults and mature teens. It is specifically designed for a year-long course in Catholic Apologetics at the late high-school or early-college level. The book contains 160 questions and answers on Catholicism, Christianity, and faith in general. There are six categories: Natural Apologetics, Christian Apologetics, Catholic Apologetics, Historical Apologetics, Moral Apologetics and General Questions. The book is based on the philosophy and theology of St. Thomas Aquinas, as well as magisterial documents and the writings of authors whose views are consistent with sound Catholic theology. In each answer, scriptural verses appear in bold print for quick reference. The study questions at the end of each chapter are helpful for classroom discussions, quizzes and tests. This textbook has a digital companion, available in the App Store and the Google Play Store. It is a mobile app called Appologetics, written by the same author and containing the same content, a helpful pocket resource for convenience and quick reference. https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/summa-apologetica/ Book : https://a.co/d/g8dALwS App (iPhone): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/appologetics/id6444092466 App (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.glideapp.appologetics&hl=en_US YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@appologetics

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Kevin Miller on his book The Saint I Knew! Exciting 'Encounters' with Holiness. Each of us has the potential to become a saint. We're especially reminded of this when we receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, usually as a teenager, and choose a saint as our patron and inspiration. Who better than the saints and blesseds to inspire us in the battle of life? In The Saint I Knew! Exciting "Encounters" with Holiness, Kevin Wilson places you, the reader, in a fictional story of a holy man, woman, or child before their recognition by the Roman Catholic Church. Ever wonder what it was like to befriend Carlo Acutis, Karol Wojtyla (Pope John Paul II), or Agnes Gonxhe Bojaxhiu (Mother Teresa)? Let's get started! https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Knew-Exciting-Encounters-Holiness/dp/1596146273

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Adrian Reimers on his article “Male Chastity according to Pope St John Paul II” in the book Lived Experience and the Search for Truth, edited by Deborah Savage and Robert L. Fastiggi This book is an initial attempt to arrive inductively at the truths embedded in the moral teaching of the Church through the lived experience of faithful men and women, rendered intelligible in conceptual terms. While attending to one’s own experience is certainly one step in coming to understand oneself, it provides but a glimpse – a partial clue – into the mystery of who one is and is meant to be. Indeed, experience is not alienated from human cognition but integral to it. Wisdom is the fruit of both experience and reason. But, contrary to claims of those who would give primacy to subjective personal experience over and against the conclusions of right reason, it is only possible to arrive at the full truth about oneself if the intellect is allowed to pursue its proper end, not mere knowledge but understanding. We hope to persuade the reader that a proper grasp of the place of lived experience in the search for truth reveals that the Catholic understanding of the human person and human sexuality provide the only sure route to human happiness.  https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/livedexperience/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Eduardo Echeverria on his book Jesus Christ, Scandal of Particularity: Vatican II, a Catholic Theology of Religions, Justification, and Truth (December 30, 2024) In this book, in view of the light of Jesus Christ, the Light of the world, and hence the scandal of particularity, the author explores the relationship between the Second Vatican Council and a Catholic theology of religions, the standard by which the unevangelized will be judged, the ideology of dialogue and the corresponding idea of religious relativism, the truth-oriented dynamic of interreligious dialogue, the necessity of interreligious apologetics, truth and epistemic justification, and the orientation of dialogue to evangelization. The key figures discussed in this book are, inter alia, Gerald O’Collins, SJ, St. John Paul II, Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI, Bernard Lonergan, SJ, Marianne Moyaert, Edward Schillebeeckx, OP, and Wolfhart Pannenberg.