#thecatholicbookworm

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Jennifer Roback Morse on her chapter entitled "The Sexual Revolution and Its Victims: The Church was Right All Along" in the book "Lived Experience and the Search for Truth: Revisiting Catholic Sexual Morality." 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.  --  Jennifer Roback Morse is the founder of The Ruth Institute, an interfaith international coalition to defend the family and build a Civilization of Love. She taught economics at Yale and George Mason Universities for 15 years. She resigned her tenured teaching position in 1996 to care for her children, a badly neglected Romanian adopted son, and a birth daughter. She founded the Ruth Institute in 2008, and has devoted her professional skills to developing a defense of traditional Catholic teaching on marriage, family and human sexuality.  https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/livedexperience/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Andrew Abela on Superhabits: The Universal System for a Successful Life (October 30, 2024) For too many of us, life is harder than it needs to be. We have forgotten the ancient system of “super habits” — a specific set of habits for making decisions, managing our emotions, and dealing with other people that fosters lives of greater ease, happiness, and power. Ancient civilizations relied on these habits to produce some of the greatest achievements in human history. Now, contemporary researchers in psychology, education, and management are rediscovering these habits and empirically demonstrating the power and goodness that they bring to everyday life. As many self-help gurus will tell you, we are the summation of our daily habits. What has so far been missing is a comprehensive guide to which habits are most valuable to us and how they work together as a system, for the best impact on our lives. This invaluable book by Dr. Andrew Abela shows how attaining virtue requires not a herculean effort but, rather, steady daily practice, which is accessible to all. He explains how the genius of a thirteenth-century philosopher-monk codified the super habits into a veritable human operating system, one that’s more relevant today than ever. Abela highlights: 

How super habits make life easier — because once something becomes a habit, it takes less effort

Why super habits lead to lasting joy rather than just temporary gratification 

The effects of super habits on physical, mental, and emotional health 

In a culture that prioritizes short-term fixes over long-term solutions, Super Habits offers a foundational, back-to-basics plan that produces both immediate and enduring results.  Whatever issue you are struggling with right now, whatever challenge you may be facing, there is a super habit to help you overcome it. Dr. Abela equips readers with the tools needed to embrace the lifelong pursuit of self-improvement to attain a life of greater ease, joy, and strength. Superhabits: The Universal System for a Successful Life: Abela, Andrew V.: 9798889113409: Amazon.com: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Deborah Savage on her edited volume Lived Experience and the Search for Truth: Revisiting Catholic Sexual Morality. 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 Jay Morris on his book Masterpiece: Our Journey to Spiritual Transformation (October 25, 2024) We all must ask crucial questions about our life here on earth. Am I experiencing life the way God, the Master Creator, designed my life to be lived? Or am I living a lesser, devolving life of my own choosing? We, God’s ultimate creations, can only understand our purpose in life if we learn to see ourselves through the eyes of our Creator. This book provides practical steps on walking with the Holy Spirit. It will transform your soul if you follow the instructions. Amazon.com: Masterpiece: Our Journey to Spiritual Transformation: 9781625862525: Morris PhD, Jay: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Antony Kolenc on his book Shadows: Visible and Invisible. (October 21, 2024) Shadows: Visible and Invisible is a collection of Hallowtide-themed short stories by seven Catholic Teen Books authors. Grace and the Grave Robber: Grace doesn't know what it means to go "souling," but she certainly wasn't expecting it to be like this! Bogey in the Belfry: A storm drives William and his friends inside the dark church for shelter. Are animals making noises in the loft or is it something more sinister? A Very Jurassic Hallowtide: Trapped in the mountains by a blizzard and a pack of T. rex, Darryl, Joshua and Harry's All Hallows' Eve is looking dangerous enough, even before things take an eerie turn. Lucy and the Forbidden Secret: A medieval girl in a nunnery struggles with conflicts when another novice breaks her vows on the day of All Souls, revealing a shocking secret. Helpless: Vanessa doesn't need anyone's help, and she sets out to prove it by going alone to investigate strange lights in the cemetery. At the End of His Tether: When you live on a spaceship like Philip does, visiting the cemetery to pray for the dead always comes with the risk of joining them. The Far End of the Cemetery: It's another All Hallowtide, and on this All Souls' Day, a young man finds himself at the cemetery yet again, but he's not alone. Will tonight be the night, or will the torment continue? Amazon.com: Shadows: Visible & Invisible (Catholic Teen Books Visible & Invisible Anthology Series): 9798985348521: Wahl, Leslea, Astfalk, Carolyn, Turner, Corinna, Kolenc, Antony B., Linden, Theresa, Keiser, Marie C., Gaouette, T. M.: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Sarah Bartel on her ministry My Delight: A 90-Day Program to More Intimacy, Joy and Pleasure in Sex (October 9, 2024) Bring all your honest questions about sex in marriage that you didn't know who to ask!

What is okay and not is not allowed for Catholics?

How far is too far when you're using fertility awareness to avoid?

How do I talk to him about sex?

How do I figure out my body? 

What if I have low desire? What if HE has low desire?

You come with your questions and a willing heart. I'll bring my expertise as a Catholic moral theologian, a satisfied wife of 22 years, and my 10+ years of experience in marriage and family ministry.  Together, we'll devote 90 days to building a beautiful and fulfilling sex life in your marriage! My Delight Waitlist (canafeast.com)

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Frank Ravanelli on his book Pages of the Aduir: Journey to the Peninsia Throne (October 3, 2024) The continents of Innrealm and Jugoria stand on the brink of destruction, under the Dark Lord Voloc’s tyrannical rule. Uriel, a young boy, unknowingly holds the fate of these lands in his hands. As Voloc’s influence spreads, Uriel is thrust into training for a deadly tournament. Unaware of the full burden of his destiny, Uriel embarks on a perilous journey, facing not only Voloc but the formidable army that follows him. Along the way, Uriel forges deep bonds with fellow young warriors, all of whom are also training for the tournament. Among them is Gideon, his best friend and loyal companion, who harbors a destiny of his own. Guided by the immaculate Queen Eliza, Uriel must navigate a treacherous path, uncover his true potential, and realign the constellations to restore balance to the land. In this epic saga of destiny, rebellion, and redemption, Uriel faces the ultimate choice: rise against the encroaching darkness or witness the fall of everything he holds dear. A prophecy speaks of a savior—but will Uriel become the hero the realm desperately needs, or will the forces of darkness prevail? Home – Frankravs (frankravanelli.com)

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Rebecca Martin on her book Love in the Eternal City: A Swiss Guard Romance (October 2, 2024) Rome—once the heart of an empire, now the heart of the Catholic Church—has witnessed many love stories. When the Eternal City draws together a Swiss Guard and an American expat, a modern-day romance blooms in the shadow of Saint Peter’s Basilica. Haunted by a broken engagement and betrayed by her best friend, Elena Gattino travels to Rome for a new job and the hope of a new life. Fueled by pasta and bolstered by prayer, she becomes brave enough to forge new friendships with the Rechsteiner siblings as she explores Rome and finds her footing at work. Benedikt Rechsteiner is comfortable serving in the Swiss Guard, even if he recognizes his life lacks a special something…or someone. Simmering family tensions and uncertainty about his future have left Beni wary of relationships, but his unexpected feelings for Elena challenge him to face his fears. Soon, Beni and Elena’s friendship turns into more, thanks to the matchmaking meddling of a Vatican spymaster, a Swiss Guard comrade-in-arms, and Beni’s overenthusiastic yet lovable sister. But then Elena’s past follows her to Rome, putting her in danger that even Beni may not be able to save her from. And if Beni wants to be with Elena, he’ll need to discern where his own future lies—and reconcile with his father after years of bitterness. Can the two forge a relationship strong enough to withstand the suffering that comes their way? Or will the tensions of their own lives pull them apart? Love in the Eternal City - (chrismpress.com)

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Andrew Mioni on his book Altar Against Altar: An Analysis of Catholic Traditionalism. (September 25, 2024) When does the crisis in the Church end? May priests universally minister without any canonical mission? Can one Eucharist be offered against another in legitimate Catholic worship? Using the Scriptures, patristic sources, and magisterial declarations, Altar Against Altar answers these and many other questions, and demonstrates how the independent traditionalist ministry does not provide a remedy for the current crisis, but only perpetuates it. Altar Against Altar: An Analysis of Catholic Traditionalism by Andrew Mioni | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Cathy Colver Garland and Randy Colver on their book Revelationship: Transformative Intimacy with Christ (September 23, 2024) Revelationship is how God reveals himself as he pursues us for relationship.In a world deconstructing, Christ reveals himself —the indestructible cornerstone of all that it means to thrive. When we embrace Christ’s revelations of his character and his great passion for intimacy, he personally and uniquely meets our deepest needs, wrestles our deepest questions, and heals our deepest hurt.This book will open readers to encounters with Christ in many of the ways he reveals himself. Our spiritual lives languish if we limit how God can reveal himself or emphasize one form of revelation over another.Revelationship will restore intimacy with Christ to the church. We hope that this book will act as a primer of sorts to guide Christians to transformational intimacy with Christ. Revelationship: Transformative Intimacy with Christ by Cathy Garland and Dr. Randy Colver | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Katelyn Slater, Creative Director of the Acting Program, at JP Catholic. John Paul the Great Catholic University | JPCatholic Katelyn is an alumna of JPCatholic and graduated within the acting emphasis. Since graduating, she has worked closely with Prof. Eskey in developing and teaching the courses at JPCatholic, while pursuing her own passion for acting. She has worked with several local theaters, including North Coast Repertory Theatre, Onstage Playhouse, Trinity Theatre Company, and Community Actor’s Theatre. Regionally, she acted in a fall touring production of Romeo and Juliet with Nebraska Shakespeare, in addition to being a teaching artist for the company. She has also been a teaching artist for Trinity Theatre and has taught acting at The Nativity School in Rancho Santa Fe. She loves collaborative story-telling that delves into the richness and humor of humanity. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Theatre degree at Regent University. For her production of Romeo & Juliet, see Romeo & Juliet | Theatre | Student Showcase (jpcatholic.edu)

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Anthony DeStefano on his book Christmas in Heaven (September 16, 2024) In charming rhyming verse, Christmas in Heaven tells the poignant story of a little boy who is sad because his grandmother has passed away. It is Christmastime, and the boy asks his grandfather where his grandmother might be. The grandfather responds by telling the boy his fondest hope—that his grandmother is in Heaven. The boy closes his eyes as his grandfather describes that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday and that a great, festive party is taking place in Heaven. It’s a scene filled with angels and saints, music and laughter, joy and love, and most of all, abundant life! This beautiful little book will give children an unforgettable vision of Heaven while strengthening in them the theological virtue of hope — a hope that will assist them throughout their lives in dealing with fear, grief, pain, and suffering. It will also introduce them to the incredible world of the saints. Indeed, the most beloved saints and angels make appearances in Christmas in Heaven, all doing the things they’re best known for: 

St. Honoré, patron saint of bakers, is making Jesus’ birthday cake

St. Cecilia, patron saint of music, is leading the choir

St. Lucy, patron saint of the blind, is lighting the Christmas tree

St. Gabriel is blowing his horn St. Nicholas is leaving presents under the tree

St. Thérèse is giving out flowers St. Francis is surrounded by little animals

St. Patrick is handing out shamrocks 

The book includes a helpful two-page glossary with short descriptions of each saint depicted. Christmas in Heaven combines a delightful teaching on the saints with a sweet story of a boy who, through the eyes of faith, gets to see his grandmother again in Heaven. It is sure to tug at the heartstrings of readers young and old, bringing yuletide joy to all.  https://sophiainstitute.com/product/christmas-in-heaven/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Frank Fraser on his book Already There. Are you ready to come home? A place where no one is ever hungry, afraid, or alone. A golden land of beauty, laughter, and joy. Could there really be such a place? This is the question our protagonist, a little lamb, asks when a mysterious kindly Shepherd appears, promising eternal happiness in a world to come. Yes, our home is indeed a paradise, and the Father has prepared a place for each of us. As the lamb grapples with this joyous revelation, he learns to ignore the scoffing of worldly leaders, who boast of their own plans and claim that Heaven is a myth. The lamb believes the Shepherd and is determined to find the way to this wonderful place. The way is simple. The Shepherd tells him: “I am the Way.” And the lamb eagerly follows Him. But while simple, the way is not easy. The lamb faces many obstacles on the path to happiness, including his own weakness and temptations. As his memory of the Good Shepherd fades, will he overcome the allure of the world to follow the true path once again? With whimsical storytelling and colorful imagery, this picture book gently introduces children to the challenge all Christians face during their lives. Parents and children alike will ask whether they have the courage to follow Jesus when the path before them becomes steep and rocky. Inspired by the parable of the Good Shepherd, who goes into the wilderness to rescue the sheep that strays, this tale of faith and forgiveness is sure to inspire greater love and devotion for the kindly Shepherd, who is always ready to find us and lead us home.  https://sophiainstitute.com/product/already-there/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Peter Kaye on his ministry at K-LOVE Radio.  Mission | Positive Encouraging K-LOVE (klove.com)

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews John Carpay on his contribution entitled "COVID and the Demise of Constitutionality in Canada" in Politics, Law & Religion in Times of COVID, edited by Jane F. Adolphe, Fulvio Di Blasi, and Robert L. Fastiggi. After two years of anti-COVID-19 policies, an international group of Catholic scholars and lawyers gathered in Rome under the auspices of the International Catholic Jurists Forum to reflect on how society has handled the crisis in the fields of law, politics and religion. The purpose of the meeting was to highlight what needs to be done in the future to better safeguard subsidiarity, fundamental human rights, especially freedom of religion and conscience, expression, assembly and movement as well as democratic processes per se and the unity of family life. Scholars and jurists, authors of this book, discussed how the pandemic has affected the functioning of Western political systems, how it has changed our thinking about democracy, and how it has affected the life of the Church. The publication of this book comes at a time when United Nations Member States are set to complete negotiations on the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Treaty, and on the WHO International Health Regulations. Both documents raise a number of concerns related to the global biosecurity governance regime that is envisioned and the correlative limits on fundamental human rights that it entails. This book offers an examination of a number of related issues and concerns that reflect upon and bravely engage the evidence to offer clear thinking for scientists, politicians, and clergymen in light of faith and right reason with respect for the natural moral law and for religious believers, with assistance from divine revelation.

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Julius Leloczky, O. Cist. on his book All is Grace: My Life. Son of a baker, Julius Lelóczky was supposed to continue the family business, the French style patisserie. He instead felt he was called to be a monk and priest, during a time when in communist Hungary all religious orders had been suppressed. By God’s grace, he was able to join the Cistercian Order which continued to operate underground. After living as an underground monk for three years until the 1956 Hungarian Revolution against the mighty Soviet Union, since at that time the western border was open, he (with other young Cistercians) was sent to Rome to study, then to Texas at the Our Lady of Dallas Cistercian Abbey, founded by refugee Hungarian monks during the 1950s. Fr. Julius has been living at this monastery and teaching at the Abbey’s prep school for nearly fifty years. Read about the exciting and perilous young life of this Hungarian American priest and the interesting transformation of a refugee ethnic religious community into a flourishing American monastery. https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/allisgrace/