Bookshelf

10 Promises of Jesus

This book is a solid dose of hope. Through her own stories and the stories of others who have faced adversity and suffering, Marge Fenelon reminds us that, no matter what, Jesus is always there for us. Jesus understands adversity and suffering because he experienced them himself. And he promised not once, but repeatedly that he will turn our sorrow into joy if we but trust and follow him. No matter what situation you are facing, and how frail your sense of hope has become, this comforting, inspiring book will reassure you that Jesus is waiting to lift you up. ~margefenelon.com

Marge Fenelon is an award-winning Catholic author and journalist, speaker and blogger whose writing has appeared in dozens of secular and Catholic media outlets. She is a columnist for the Milwaukee Catholic Herald. She was a guest speaker for one of our Lenten Mission nights in 2019.

Thirsting for Prayer

"Thirsting for Prayer", by Fr. Jaques Philipe is a book that is a very practical way to learn about prayer and understand what prayer really is. It is not overly theological, but rather a very accessible resource to build a foundation of prayer. When I was in seminary, a few of us read this book and it was a jump starter for us. Too often, we have ideas of what prayer is "supposed" to be and that blocks us from growing closer to God. This book really helps with overcoming the roadblocks.

Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion

"Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion," by Gregory Boyle was recommended by Rich Harter, now Director of Evangelization for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, as a St. Dominic Book Club selection years ago. It remains one of my favorite books.

Gregory Boyle has run Homeboy Industries, a gang-intervention program located in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, the gang capital of the world, since 1988. In "Tattoos on the Heart", he describes his experience working in the ghetto through a series of moving parables inspired by faith.

Shared with humor and generosity of heart, he offers a window into how the joy in loving others and in being loved unconditionally is possible. We learn different lessons from each character: how to feel worthy of God's love, the importance of being present to others and in being known, and that patience with others, has it rewards.

It's a book about redemption, compassion, and the power of unconditional love. Highly recommended for those who are looking to go deeper into the Works of Mercy.