Resources

There's so much more I wish I could write about here, but given the Catholic faith spans nearly 2000 years, it's ground I won't be able to cover on my own. However, I do want to leave you my top five book recommendations that will further explain much of what Abide With Us has explored.


* Catholicism for Dummies by Frs. John Trigilio and Kenneth Brighenti- This should be the first book purchased by anyone curious about Catholicism. The For Dummies series is famous for its simple, engaging writing style, as well as mini-lessons, handy charts and trivia. Written by two priests, it's incredibly thorough and has an index for looking up specific questions.


* Swimming with Scapulars by Matthew Lickona- When I grow up, I want to be Matthew Lickona. He's a newspaper columnist for the San Diego Reader, writing reviews of various worship services in the area. His new book is about living as a young, devout Catholic in today's world. Funny, honest and sometimes intense, if you like what you've read in this blog even a little, pick up this book.
  
* Rome Sweet Home by Scott and Kimberly Hahn- To be a bit personal, this book was a huge player in leading me back to the Church, and many others credit Dr. Hahn for influencing their faith. Hahn and his wife Kimberly recount candidly and rationally their gradual conversion to Catholicism. This includes tons of Scriptural support for every step of their "journey home." I recommend all of Hahn's work, but this one is a favorite.


* Saints Behaving Badly by Thomas Craughwell- I mentioned this book before when I covered saints, and definitely have to add it to the list. Not only is it educational, but it gives a very real sense of how human and imperfect the Church's saints are. Some of the examples are actually downright comical.

* Introduction to Mary by Mark Miravalle- This book is written by an ordained deacon and covers all of the central elements of Mary's role in our salvation. It also deals with uniquely Catholic beliefs like the Immaculate Conception, Assumption, and her perpetual virginity. This is an easy read and a solid springboard into other Marian works.

Ten more days until Christmas. It's not too late!