Books - (also see Inspirational Books)

Theology for Ministry is for beginning ministry students, seasoned lay leaders, and anyone in between who wants to learn more about the faith that feeds their call to serve. Six easy-to-read chapters introduce the main areas of theology that every lay minister ought to know: the notion of vocation, the doctrine of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, church, and ministry. By sharing personal stories and simple examples, Edward Hahnenberg brings the Bible to life and dusts off ancient church doctrines-revealing the many ways our tradition can inspire the work of lay ministers today.

Subtitle: An Introduction for Lay Ministers
Author: Edward P. Hahnenberg

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814635216
Details: 148 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 04/16/2014

The publication of The Roman Missal, Third Edition offers an opportunity for homilists to explore the relationship between the Sunday readings and the new Roman Missal. Between the Ambo and the Altar is the final book (Year C) in a three-volume series that presents scriptural, liturgical, and preaching commentary for Sundays, solemnities, and feasts throughout the year.

Each Sunday's resources are presented in three sections: exploring the Scripture, connecting the Lectionary with the liturgy, and a homiletic strategy. DeBona takes the preacher through a meditation on the language of the Missal, suggests parallels to the Sunday Lectionary, and gives practical homiletic strategies using core themes and images. It is hoped that the commentary advances a framework for homily preparation so that preachers might "savor the deep meaning of the word of God which unfolds each year in the liturgy" (Benedict XVI, Verbum Domini 52).

Subtitle: Biblical Preaching and The Roman Missal, Year C
Author: Guerric DeBona, OSB

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814635599
Details: 328 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 09/16/2015

The publication of The Roman Missal, Third Edition offers an opportunity for homilists to explore the relationship between the Sunday readings and the new Roman Missal. Between the Ambo and the Altar is the first book (Year A) in a three-volume series that presents scriptural, liturgical, and preaching commentary for Sundays, solemnities, and feasts throughout the year.

Each Sunday's resources are presented in three sections: exploring the Scripture, connecting the Lectionary with the liturgy, and a homiletic strategy. DeBona takes the preacher through a meditation on the language of the Missal, suggests parallels to the Sunday Lectionary, and gives practical homiletic strategies using core themes and images. It is hoped that the commentary advances a framework for homily preparation so that preachers might "savor the deep meaning of the word of God which unfolds each year in the liturgy" (Benedict XVI, Verbum Domini 52).

Subtitle: Biblical Preaching and The Roman Missal, Year A
Author: Guerric DeBona, OSB

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814634592
Details: 316 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 11/14/2013

After the publication of The Roman Missal, Third Edition, much attention was given to the catechesis of the clergy and the faithful on the Order of Mass, which contains the chief theological and spiritual elements of the eucharistic celebration. In The Prayers of the New Missal, Anscar J. Chupungco expands the reader's focus to the other parts of the Mass--namely, the orations or the Collect, Prayer over the Offerings, Prayer after Communion, and Prayer over the People. He demonstrates that these elements, too, are a rich source of doctrine and spirituality waiting to be shared with others through homily and catechesis.

Preachers and catechists will especially appreciate Father Chupungco's recommendations for approaching the difficult and sometimes vexing structure and vocabulary of the new Missal. He offers helpful exercises for analyzing the Latin texts, comparing the original and the English versions, and crafting provisional literal translations that will aid in easier comprehension. Finally, he concludes with an ample sampling of homiletic and catechetical notes that will serve as a rich source of nourishment for preaching and catechesis.

Subtitle: A Homiletic and Catechetical Companion
Author: Anscar J. Chupungco, OSB; Foreword by J. Michael Joncas

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814635193
Details: 140 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 05/01/2013

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814634561
Details: 80 pgs , 7 x 10 
Publication Date: 01/01/2013

Far-reaching changes continue to take place in the American priesthood. Building on insights gained from four previous surveys, Same Call, Different Men uses fresh data from a 2009 survey-jointly implemented by the National Federation of Priest's Councils and the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate-in which 900 priests shared attitudes and stories about their lives and ministry. Among topics covered are the challenges of ministry with fewer ordinations and larger parishes, ministering to an increasingly multicultural laity, collaboration with lay leaders, and personal reflections on the sexual abuse issue. It also relates the many satisfactions of being a priest, one who brings Christ to others and who is invited into many profound moments of individual lives.

Subtitle: The Evolution of the Priesthood since Vatican II
Author: Mary L. Gautier, Paul M. Perl, and Rev. Stephen J. Fichter

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814634295
Details: 256 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 05/01/2012

In Stewardship: Living a Biblical Call, Bernard Evans presents an accessible and easily understood biblical and theological foundation for giving that both parishioners and stewardship leaders will find practical and valuable. In focused chapters, the many aspects of stewardship are named and described, assisting readers in recognizing gifts and actions that make practicing stewardship far more than a financial proposition.

Grounded in years of practical work in this area with parish leaders, Evans adeptly ties the Catholic invitation to stewardship to biblical foundations as well as the social teaching of the church. A clear, concise, readable work, Stewardship: Living a Biblical Call also engages key questions of the age, such as ecological stewardship and care for body, mind, and spirit. Evans explores the communal and personal actions that help every believer proclaim the reign of God.

Author: Bernard F. Evans

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814634257
Details: 144 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 05/30/2014

Though daily Mass is held most frequently, resources for daily homilies can be in short supply. In this book, Bishop Sklba offers a rich collection of ideas fire starters for preparing brief, spiritually nourishing homilies for daily Eucharist. Like building a campfire, where one ignites the logs with more easily flammable paper, these "fire starters" are intended to provide the spark for weekday homilies. God's Spirit provides the flame.

Each day, the biblical citations and summary phrases for the reading and the gospel plus the refrain from the psalm are provided. After each citation, Bishop Sklba offers a series of meaningful insights from his expertise as a Scripture scholar, prayerful study of Scripture, and many years of preaching and pastoral experience. These brief entries provide knowledge and inspiration that will stimulate personal prayer and spark homily possibilities for the preacher every day.

Fire Starters will support anyone privileged to be called to leadership at weekday celebrations of the Eucharist to prepare for the important ministry of preaching.

Subtitle: Igniting the Holy in the Weekday Homily
Author: Richard J. Sklba

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814634158
Details: 618 pgs , 7 x 10 
Publication Date: 06/01/2013

The church's cycle of scriptural readings for the liturgy offers believers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the word of God. It is a very real and tangible way of responding to the call of Jesus: "Remain in me, as I remain in you."

In Abiding Word, Barbara Reid, OP, takes the Sunday experience to every day with accessible weekly meditations on the Lectionary readings of the year. This collection of articles, which includes Scripture readings for Sundays and solemnities followed by reflections, allows readers to meditate on the connection between the sacred text and their daily lives. Living with the word day by day invites us into a closer relationship with Christ, the God who became flesh.

Author: Barbara E. Reid

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 978081463144
Details: 136 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 08/01/2013

Looking for homily suggestions that faithfully represent the Scripture readings and offer hearers of the text practical applications for Christian life? Homilies for Weekdays, the final of two volumes by Father Don Talafous, OSB, contains creative suggestions of what a homilist might say about the daily readings following the Lectionary cycle.

This extensive compilation for each day is a result of Father Talafous many years of experience in preparing homilies. Written on both a popular and pastoral level, these homily ideas may also serve as daily reflections or meditations on the Scriptural texts for readers interested in nourishing their Christian lives with Scripture.

Author: Don Talafous, OSB, PhD

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814630310
Details: 232 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 10/01/2006

Ours is a culture steeped in media and technology, a fact that fascinates some and frightens others. Because media permeates every aspect of our lives, church leaders would do well to discern when and how it might be appropriately used in liturgical settings. In Liturgical Art for a Media Culture Eileen Crowley provides a powerful aid in that discernment process. By first addressing such basics as the vocabulary and historical context of media in Christian worship, Crowley helps to ease readers fears.

By looking honestly at the perils and possibilities of media in worshipand by giving readers both a framework for evaluating and a model for implementing media in worshipCrowley guides the reader fascination with media into channels appropriate for worship. This is a timely source for those who wish to use media and technology as a way to vitalize, yet not obstruct, worship and liturgy.

Author: Eileen D. Crowley

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814629680
Details: 104 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 07/01/2007

The Ministry of Servers is a simple and concise, yet comprehensive guide for altar servers and their instructors. Well organized with helpful line drawings, this book will be easily understood by children who fulfill this essential ministry to God and God's people.

Author: Michael Kwatera, OSB

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814629598
Details: 48 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 09/01/2004

The Ministry of Communion offers practical advice and vital theology for Eucharistic ministers. Updated with the latest liturgical laws and norms, and with an expanded section on leading Communion services, this book is an excellent guide for both those who serve God's people, and those who help them prepare for the ministry.

Author: Michael Kwatera, OSB

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814629581
Details: 56 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 09/01/2004

Storyteller and theologian John Shea provides a unique commentary that's ideal for preaching, teaching, or simply meditating on the Gospels. His writing is poignant and conversational making this book a valuable tool for professional ministers, as well as for Christians who reflect on the Gospels for personal spiritual growth.

Shea draws readers into the people and situations that Jesus encountered in ways that are evocative and inspirational. The resource is based on both the Catholic Lectionary for Mass and the Revised Common Lectionary, making it accessible across Christian denominations.

Subtitle: The Relentless Widow Year C
Author: John Shea, STD

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814629154
Details: 344 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 11/01/2006

With a goal of transcendent awareness, John Shea presents this commentary on the Sunday Gospel readings for those who are drawn to the spiritual wisdom of the Gospels. Ideal for Christian preachers and teachers, and Christians who meditate on the Gospels, Shea's book takes a literary-spiritual approach. He analyzes the mindsets of characters and how Jesus complimented, critiqued, praised these mindsets, to inspire meditation, reflection, and spiritual development. On Earth as It Is in Heaven, Year A is the first book of a four-volume set, The Spiritual Wisdom of the Gospels for Christian Preachers and Teachers. This set is a Lectionary-based resource that references both Roman Catholic and Revised Common Lectionaries, making it useful and interesting to various Christian denominations. A Scripture index makes Shea's insightful reflections accessible for personal reflection on the Gospel texts as well as other uses outside of liturgical preparation. With wisdom relevant to our contemporary world, The Spiritual Wisdom of the Gospels for Christian Preachers and Teachers: On Earth as It Is in Heaven will find its way to the top of your resource list.

Subtitle: On Earth as It Is in Heaven Year A
Author: John Shea, STD

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814629130
Details: 360 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 09/01/2004

More than just a simple guide to liturgical music, The Ministry of Music explores the acclamations, hymns, and responsorial psalm from the perspective of liturgy as ritual enactment of the paschal mystery an enactment which the music allows us to join. Harmon includes practical advice and suggestions for selecting seasonal music and helps create a paschal mystery spirituality to shape our daily lives.

Subtitle: Singing the Paschal Mystery
Author: Kathleen Harmon, SNDdeN

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814628782
Details: 104 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 09/01/2004

Catholic Press Association Award Winner!

The commentaries on the Lectionary readings in Hearing the Word of God are an attempt not only to hear the Word of God in Scripture but also to suggest ways that the Sunday readings might continue to nurture faith and life. Inevitably they reflect the time in which they were first written as a popular weekly column in America from November 2000 to Advent 2001.

Hearing the Word of God includes Scripture readings for the Sunday, followed by a reflection on the reading, and concludes with "Praying with Scripture," a series of questions and meditations to guide readers in making a personal application of the reflection.

Subtitle: Reflections on the Sunday Readings, Year C
Author: R. Donahue, SJ

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627846
Details: 152 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 09/01/2003

Recovering the Riches of Anointing is a collection of the papers presented at an international symposium sponsored by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC) as part of a long-term exploration of topics of theological and pastoral concern in pastoral care of the sick. This book looks at the anointing of the sick from the vantage point of theology, history, and canon law. Since Vatican II the training and commissioning of lay Eucharistic ministers has enabled the sick and dying to receive the nourishment of Christ's body and blood regularly in their confinement at home or an institution. The sacraments of penance and the anointing of the sick, however, have become less and less available as the number of ordained priests in chaplaincy is decreasing. In response to this pastoral problem Bishop Richard J. Sklba, auxiliary bishop of Milwaukee, suggested that the NACC gather theologians together to explore the history and practice of this sacrament and other rituals in the rich tradition of the Church. Thus the papers concerning this particular sacramental ministry were written and delivered at this conference. Recovering the Riches of Anointing will be helpful for professional ministers of pastoral care; professional pastoral, liturgical, and sacramental theologians; and those engaged in pastoral ministry formation.

Subtitle: A Study of the Sacrament of the Sick
Author: Genevieve Glen, OSB, Editor; Kevin Tripp, Susan Wood, SCL, Peter Fink, SJ, Michael Drumm, Kevin Irwin, John M. Huels, OSM, and Genevieve Glen, OSB; Foreword by Joseph J. Driscoll

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627754
Details: 152 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 09/01/2002

Monsignor Comiskey offers practical suggestions for extending hospitality in sacramental moments while teaching, serving, greeting, or in day-by-day living. Comiskey begins with the roots of hospitality and its importance in the Bible and concludes with resources useful to parishes looking to reach out and enhance hospitality. Dedicated "To all hospitable people who reach out seeking and finding Christ," Comiskey's work encourages sharing of parish visions and dreams.

Subtitle: Second Edition
Author: James A. Comiskey

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627327
Details: 48 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 09/01/2004

What author John J. Pilch did for our understanding of the Sunday readings in his best-selling Cultural World of Jesus Sunday by Sunday series, he now does for the readings of the Triduum and Easter Sunday. Preachers, liturgy planners, musicians, and lyricists will discover the cultural context and meaning of the three Scripture readings for each day. All who participate in the Triduum and Easter Sunday liturgies will gain a deeper understanding of the Scriptures and their application to modern life.

The introduction presents and explains a three-step method commonly used by specialists in cross-cultural communication. Pilch offers suggestions for homilists and reflection questions from historical, liturgical, and cultural perspectives to encourage the reader to explore and master this cross-cultural method for breaking open the Scriptures. This process helps to make the challenge of the Scriptures clearer than ever for the modern reader.

Subtitle: Breaking Open the Scriptures
Author: John J. Pilch

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627273
Details: 56 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 07/01/2000

These meditations present the mystery of Pentecost, from Luke in Acts, John in his Gospel, and Paul in his Letters. By placing these diverse but complementary points of view together, Cantalamessa provides priests, students, and interested lay people with a "three-dimensional" image of the coming of the Spirit, particularly suited to promote catechesis and devotion. Fr. Cantalamessa originally presented these meditations in his capacity as preacher to the papal household.

Chapters are "And They Began to Speak in Different Tongues: The Lukan Pentecost and the Spirit of Unity," "You Will Receive Power When the Holy Spirit Comes Upon You: The Lukan Pentecost and the Spirit of Prophecy," "He Breathed on Them and Said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit': The Johannine Pentecost and the Spirit of Truth," "But One and the Same Spirit Produces All of These: The Pauline Pentecost and the 'Person' of the Holy Spirit."

Author: Raniero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap.; Glen S. Davis, Translator

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627242
Details: 72 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 02/01/200

In this book of meditations Father Raniero Cantalamessa reflects on Christ passion, death, and resurrection. First presented as a Lenten retreat in Rome, together with the Good Friday homily in St. Peter Basilica, the result is a rich and multifaceted exploration of this central mystery of the Christian faith. Christ journey to Easter is such an immensely rich source that homilists, liturgists and believers who wants to plumb its depths know the challenge is not about lack of content, but rather where to begin. Like an experienced guide who knows the territory and its many paths, Father Cantalamessa helps readers reach the spiritual center. His varying points of departure become stirring reflections on Easter. They culminate in a powerful meditation on the Servant Song in the light of the Passion narrativesand the message of the victorious Christ.

Subtitle: Meditations on the Resurrection
Author: Raniero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap; Demetrio S. Yocum, Translator

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627068
Details: 64 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 09/01/2006

Contemporary and complete, The Ministry of Liturgical Environment considers the physical location of our worship, from assembly seating, color usage, and liturgical accouterments to ministers' and assemblys dress. Zimmerman offers a useful, practical guide for those preparing an inviting sacred space that reflects and enhances the community's valued principles.

Includes: Introduction, "The Liturgical Environment,"A Journey Through Space,Things Used for Liturgy, Aesthetics of Sacred Space, A Spirituality for Ministers of the Liturgical Environment, Responsibilities of Ministers of the Liturgical Environment, Enhancing the Environment for Liturgical Seasons and Occasions, and Concluding Thoughts.

Author: Joyce Ann Zimmerman, CPPS

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814627051
Details: 96 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 09/01/2004

Seasons in the Word: Liturgical Homilies Year C is the second of a three-volume collection of homilies covering the Lectionary, including feast days. The book results from decades of prayerful preaching on the Sunday Scriptures by Fr. John Sandell to congregations in the Diocese of Fargo. Useful for priests in their own homiletic preparation, Seasons in the Word is also for lay people who wish to prepare for the upcoming Sunday readings and for individual reflection.

Subtitle: Liturgical Homilies Year C
Author: John Sandell

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 978-0-8146-2585-9, 2585
Details: 120 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 08/01/2003

The parables of Jesus are puzzling sayings and stories with world-transforming potential. Parables for Preachers offers an understanding of how parables work and a fresh variety of possible meanings not only for Jesus original audience and for the early Christians for whom Matthew, Mark, and Luke wrote but also for contemporary Christians as well. The Gospel parables are analyzed in the order in which they appear in the Lectionary, making this book an indispensable resource for preachers, teachers, catechists, liturgy planners, and Bible study groups.

Subtitle: Year C, The Gospel of Luke
Author: Barbara E. Reid, OP

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814625521
Details: 368 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 08/01/2000

The parables of Jesus are puzzling sayings and stories with world-transforming potential. Parables for Preachers offers an understanding of how parables work and a fresh variety of possible meanings not only for Jesus original audience and for the early Christians for whom Matthew, Mark, and Luke wrote but also for contemporary Christians as well. The Gospel parables are analyzed in the order in which they appear in the Lectionary, making this book an indispensable resource for preachers, teachers, catechists, liturgy planners, and Bible study groups.

Subtitle: Year B, The Gospel of Mark
Author: Barbara E. Reid, OP

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814625514
Details: 144 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/4 
Publication Date: 10/01/1999

The parables of Jesus are puzzling sayings and stories with world-transforming potential. Parables for Preachers offers an understanding of how parables work and a fresh variety of possible meanings not only for Jesus original audience and for the early Christians for whom Matthew, Mark, and Luke wrote but also for contemporary Christians as well. The Gospel parables are analyzed in the order in which they appear in the Lectionary, making this book an indispensable resource for preachers, teachers, catechists, liturgy planners, and Bible study groups.

Subtitle: Year A, The Gospel of Matthew
Author: Barbara E. Reid, OP

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814625507
Details: 296 pgs , 5 3/8 x 8 1/
Publication Date: 09/01/2001

In Christ in the Gospels of the Ordinary Sundays, Father Brown discusses the Gospels as they are used in "the Ordinary Time." It is the time the Church treats the Gospels consecutively and in detail, with Year A of the three-year cycle taking its readings from Matthew; Year B from Mark; and Year C from Luke.

Father Brown discusses how a Gospel was formed and explains what is distinctive about each of the four Gospels. Then he fits the Sunday readings, one by one, into an overall picture of each Gospel, showing how the Gospel shapes the narrative, its theological emphases, and what it says to readers. With such an overview, the Sunday selections may be read in context and interpreted in their original sequence.

During Ordinary time people turn from reflecting on the mystery of Christ to considering how that mystery affects their lives. In Christ in the Gospels of the Ordinary Sundays, Father Brown provides an overview of the meaning of the Gospels during the many weeks of Ordinary Time.

Chapters are "Understanding How Gospels Were Written and Their Use in the Sunday Liturgy," "The Gospel According to Matthew," "The Gospel According to Mark," "The Gospel According to Luke," and "The Gospel According to John."

Subtitle: Essays on the Gospel Readings of the Ordinary Sundays in the Three-Year Liturgical Cycle
Author: Raymond E. Brown, SS

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814625422
Details: 120 pgs , 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 
Publication Date: 09/01/1998