#thecatholicbookworm

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Dennis Billy, CSsR, on his books about Mary, Joseph, and Jesus (December 20, 2024) Our Sorrowful Mother: Meditations on Mary’s Seven Dolorsby Dennis Billy, C.Ss.R.This book is a series of imaginative meditations on what Catholic devotional literature refers to as “The Seven Dolors of Mary,” seven moments in Our Blessed Mother’s life that brought her great pain and suffering. These meditations are reflections on passages from Scripture that put Mary in close contact with the sufferings of Our Lord and, in doing so, seek to place the reader in the same place with them. This work of devotion seeks to deepen the reader’s Catholic identity by pointing to Mary, the Mother of Our Lord, and showing us that she is also Our Mother, someone who weeps and mourns over our own pain and suffering, be it physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, or social. Our Sorrowful Mother: Meditations on Mary’s Seven Dolors by Fr. Dennis J. Billy, C.Ss.R. | En Route Books and Media Joseph of Nazareth: Icon of the Father’s Loveby Dennis Billy, C.Ss.R.This book is about a humble, courageous man named Joseph who played a pivotal role in the story of our redemption and about whom the Gospels say so very little. It is a series of meditations about this obscure member of the house of David who listened to God in the quiet of his heart and the silence of his dreams, a man who followed God’s will even though according to the Law he had every right to do otherwise. Through these pages, the author hopes to help readers see Joseph as a living icon of the Father’s love. Joseph of Nazareth: Icon of the Father’s Love by Fr. Dennis J. Billy, C.Ss.R. | En Route Books and Media Worshiping the Sacramental Christby Dennis Billy, C.Ss.R.The purpose of this book is to alert us to the multidimensional aspects of our Eucharistic worship and to help us see how this sacrament engages the whole person and the entire People of God. It seeks to open our minds and hearts to the sacrament as the worship of the whole Church. It maintains that the human person is a microcosm of the Church and that the various dimensions of our human makeup that we find within ourselves are also present in Christ’s Mystical Body—if we only have eyes to see and ears to hear. Worshiping the Sacramental Christ by Fr. Dennis Billy, C.Ss.R. | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Dr. Gerard Verschuuren on his book Why You Would Want to Be a Catholic (December 16, 2024) This book shows the reader why the Catholic Faith is the best faith there is, each chapter highlighting a particular characteristic feature of Catholicism. Why You Would Want to Be a Catholic by Gerard Verschuuren | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Carrie Gress on her chapter “Motherhood and the Power of Vulnerability” in Lived Experience and the Search for Truth: Revisiting Catholic Sexual Morality (December 13, 2024) 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. Lived Experience and the Search for Truth: Revisiting Catholic Sexual Morality | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Cynthia Linkas on her novel Vows. Fall, 1964. Academy of Sorrows’ nuns and girls are at crossroads. Janey, a senior, yearns for faith and breaks the rules. Sister Philippe, a young independent nun, struggles to keep her vows. Mother Superior leads them in discipline and belief. But temptation beckons: reckless tobogganing on icy hills, skating with abandon at the roller palace, young men waiting for them outside the walls, and all the while, questioning their faith. As graduation approaches, Janey and Philippe make spiritual discoveries. The Vatican II revolution begins. Will Philippe throw off her habit and break her vows? Will Janey surprise even herself and take the vows? And will Mother Superior still shepherd them with vision and grace? https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/vows/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Richard Doerflinger on his chapter in Lived Experience entitled “Married Experience and the Gospel of Life” (December 11, 2024) 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. Lived Experience and the Search for Truth: Revisiting Catholic Sexual Morality | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Conrad Murphy on Why Christians Can Wear Pants: Spiritual Lessons from Strange Stories in Papal History (December 4, 2024) In the late 9th Century, Pope Nicholas I was asked if Christians were permitted to wear pants. His response was both amusing and wise, extolling the questioners to virtue and spiritual growth. Why Christians Can Wear Pants is a collection of unique stories from Papal History, which, like the example provided by Pope Nicholas, teach us lessons about the spiritual life. Why Christians Can Wear Pants: Spiritual Lessons from Strange Stories in Papal History by Fr. Conrad Murphy | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Belinda Terro Mooney on her book Pray with Us: A Saint for Every Day. The saints in heaven are powerful intercessors, praying for our needs before the face of God. As part of the communion of saints, we on earth pray with power when we ask the saints to pray with and for us, especially on their feast days. Pray with Us invites us to connect with 365 saints, blesseds, venerables, and servants of God -- one for each day of the year. Each day's entry includes a brief biography of the saint and a prayer. This book provides a concise, approachable format for individuals and families to form the habit of daily prayer and to rely more purposefully on the intercession of the saints. Let us pray together in unity with all the saints, who love us so much and want to assist us on our spiritual journey. https://www.amazon.com/Pray-Us-Saint-Every-Day/dp/1639662103

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Ambassador Eduard Habsburg on Building a Wholesome Family in a Broken World: Habsburg Lessons from the Centuries. How do the Habsburgs approach family life? In a world that has gone mad, building a wholesome family cradle is daunting and often seems impossible. At the same time, many dare to dream of happiness in family life even today. How can you find the right spouse — and make a lifelong marriage work — in a culture that values transaction over commitment? How do you decide on core values and pass them on to your children? What are some practical ways to raise a family in the Faith?Let Archduke Eduard Habsburg guide you on the ultimate adventure of building a family. As a father of six and now a grandfather, the Archduke of Austria shares his own experiences and recipes for a wholesome family life, bolstered by 850 years of Habsburg family history. With his humorous and relatable style, Eduard dives deep into his family’s storied past to give you true principles to live by and a Great Plan for lifelong joy. You will journey with the Habsburgs step-by-step through the centuries — from falling in love to engagement, marriage, pregnancy, birth and Baptism, and everyday life, to seeing your children grow up and start families of their own. With candor and affability, Eduard provides practical and spiritual tips on dating, engagement, and cultivating a happy marriage. Through fascinating real-life stories and examples, he explores:

Five items on the “Spouse Bucket List” to help you experience a strong and fulfilling relationship

Practical advice for new parents, and the benefits of having a large family

Lessons from Blessed Charles and Empress Zita on why prayer is foundational in marriage

Ways to strengthen family life through traditions

How to care for each other — even in sickness and at the end of life

As you discover inspiring paragons of loving marriages in the Habsburg family history, you will find concrete ways to nurture and educate your children to be truly happy in a world in which wholesome family life has become countercultural. As this scion of one of the great Catholic families in Western history reminds us, “This is the way!” Building a Wholesome Family in a Broken World - Sophia Institute Press

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Maria Keffler on her book Desist, Detrans & Detox: Getting Your Child Out of the Gender Cult (November 25, 2024) In this actionable analysis of one of the most damaging movements of the modern age, renowned author Maria Keffler makes a compelling case that what lies at the core of the transgender phenomenon is a crisis of identity, and that only a loving but firm reality check can staunch the hysteria.Keffler makes unassailable arguments: Maleness and femaleness are immutable biological facts. Masculinity and femininity are personality constructs, conditioned by societal norms.But “gender,” the term favored by activists, has no solid definition. The language introduced by gender ideology is entirely subjective, which allows emotions to redefine reality. The very premise of the ideology is flawed and requires mental gymnastics of its adherents.Keffler outlines the disturbing parallels between cults and gender ideology: recruitment tactics that prey upon insecurities, indoctrination in nonsensical beliefs that must never be questioned, requirements to shun nonbelievers, and in-group newspeak which cultivates a sense of belonging.She exposes the cult of gender ideology with journalistic detail, digging into aspects the mainstream media chooses to ignore. She investigates:

The origins of modern gender ideology in the 1960s 

How the obsession to “affirm” gender identity leads to medical negligence in overlooking mental health issues

The role of bullying and peer pressure in the gender cult

The rapidly growing community of detransitioners and their insightful firsthand testimonies

Keffler also provides a manual for parenting children during the time they are most vulnerable to predatory gender activism. She instructs parents in navigating this brave new world, including discerning fact from fiction, setting boundaries regarding names and pronouns, how to find a trustworthy therapist, and how to determine what vulnerabilities led the child to the gender cult in the first place.The book includes an abundance of resources for parents whose children are currently in the throes of or recovering from gender dysphoria. Central to her approach is unconditional love and forgiveness, with a focus on moving forward together.Packed with statistical data, reasoned arguments, and practical advice, Desist, Detrans, and Detox equips readers to prevent, work through, and heal from the “medical scandal of the 21st century.” Desist, Detrans & Detox - Sophia Institute Press

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Christopher on his chapter in the book Contemporary Bioethics: Catholic Wisdom for a Confused Culture by the National Catholic Bioethics Center entitled "Seven Christian Principles for Thriving with Artificial Intelligence." Contemporary Bioethics: Catholic Wisdom for a Confused Culture, the latest book from The National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC), provides some key answers and updates in the fascinating and troubling world of bioethics. The book is geared towards people who realize bioethics is increasingly impacting our lives. We all can benefit from knowledge of and good responses to LGBTQ+ demands, genome editing, artificial intelligence, challenges in end-of-life care, etc. The nine short chapters from interdisciplinary authors in the varied fields of medicine, law, theology, and philosophy empower readers to speak to contemporary issues from informed and reasoned positions grounded in the light of truth. We live in an apostolic age, when the moral beliefs of faithful Christians are opposed to those of the dominant culture. It is essential to be prepared to present a countercultural, Catholic vision in science, health care, politics, and everyday life. Catholic bioethics can and should be the conscience of our technological civilization. Readers with an interest in the pressing issues discussed here can go on to be effective witnesses to the moral and ethical teachings of Christ and the Church in their conversations with colleagues, family, and even strangers. We need to be informed and to speak the truth in love in contemporary bioethics. Take the first decisive step by buying this book. Contemporary Bioethics: Catholic Wisdom for a Confused Culture — The National Catholic Bioethics Center

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Janine Rainwater on her book The Melody of Love (November 20, 2024) In this ethereal bedtime story, readers are transported to a peaceful, starlit town on a quiet night where a child sleeps soundly under the caring watch of the heavens.But this is no ordinary child. He is Jesus, and with His arrival, a new melody of Love is born.As this enchanting melody takes flight, it awakens a sleeping world. It stirs the creatures of the forest and those in the depths of the sea with its irresistible song.Ideal for bedtime reading, this beautifully illustrated book shows young readers how Jesus’ love transcends time and reassures us that we are deeply, individually loved.Through rhythmic verses and captivating imagery, Janine Rainwater weaves a story that will enchant children and adults alike. Her book reveals:

The peaceful and magical night of Jesus’ birth

The awakening of nature through the melody of love

The timeless message of Jesus’ love and its relevance today

The truth that all creatures great and small are connected in a symphony of grace

 Ideal for parents, grandparents, and loved ones, The Melody of Love is a heartwarming addition to any children's book collection. Let this story inspire a sense of wonder and the assurance of being unconditionally loved.  The Melody of Love: Rainwater, Janine: 9798889114024: Amazon.com: Books

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Fr. Dennis Billy, CSsR, on his book Holy Exercises: St. Alphonsus de Liguori and the Spirituality of Practice. (November 19, 2024) The purpose of Alphonsian spirituality is to preach the Gospel by our words and actions. The conversion of the world presupposes our own inner conversion of heart which, in turn, presupposes developing heartfelt spiritual practices that make a life of radical personal and communal conversion possible. This book focuses on a number of such practices that Alphonsus found to be helpful aids for his own spiritual journey and that he wished to share with others. They do not take the place of attending Mass and praying the Breviary, but rather complement them by helping us to deepen out love for Christ and walking the way of holiness. Holy Exercises: St. Alphonsus de Liguori and the Spirituality of Practice by Fr. Dennis J. Billy, C.Ss.R. | En Route Books and Media

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Andrew Sodergren and Emily Dowdell on Gender Ideology and Pastoral Practice. 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.  https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/genderideology/

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In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Helen Hoffner on her book The Rosary Collector's Guide. With 240 color photos and engaging text, this is the first book devoted to collecting rosaries. Hundreds of examples and informative text enables antique lovers, historians, and collectors of religious artifacts to identify variations of rosaries, and their crosses, crucifixes, and religious medals, determining their age and place of origin. It contains historical insights and descriptions, explaining materials used and legends associated with various rosaries. Background information on rosary makers, answers to frequently asked questions, and a glossary to define related terms are also included. With the information enclosed, readers searching brick and mortar stores or online will be able to distinguish between genuine antiques, reproductions, and rosaries that have been altered. The color photographs and concise descriptions identify old and new rosaries in detail. From the boxwood rosary owned by England's King Henry VIII to the newest Mysteries of Light Rosary developed by Pope John Paul II, this volume spans the ages and brings new understanding of both the rosary's beauty and its place in history. https://www.amazon.com/Rosary-Collectors-Guide-Gloria-Hoffner/dp/0764345354 https://www.catholic365.com/article/43381/the-rosary-collectors-guide.html

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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