Recommended Reading
All books listed are in still in publication as of this writing.
“Mystical Evolution”, or “The Mystical Evolution in the Development and Vitality of the Church” by Fr. John Arintero. Two titles, same book. This book is the standard for spiritual advancement. Volume one covers will, virtue, grace and more in a general manner. Volume two applies it to personal spiritual advancement. The several steps of spiritual advancement and grades of prayer are examined, from purgation of sin, to ascetic attainment, to mysticism. Extensive selections from the writings of the saints on the specific steps are included in each section.
“Padre Pio, the True Story”, by C. Bernard Ruffin. Biography of St. Pio, (1881-1968). Inspiring and motivating, as are all lives of the saints. Incredibly, Padre Pio was persecuted for decades by the very church that declared him a saint. He conquered it all and greatly advanced in soul. He worked hundreds of well documented miracles and healings. His recent and well documented life and miracles are evidence that God is still at work in our world today. Get the revised edition.
“He and I”, by Gabrielle Bossis (1874-1950). Revelations by Christ to Frenchwoman Gabrielle Bossis. Nearly 400 pages of inspiring and optimistic advice given to Gabrielle by Christ. The book rings authentic and is better than pills to instill hope and meaning in one’s life.
“Theological Dictionary” by Karl Rahner. Mini encyclopedia of theological terms and ideas. It contains the core ideas without the fluff.
“Catholic Encyclopedia”, on CD. Many sources publish an out of copyright edition, for only a few dollars. Still exceedingly relevant, especially articles on metaphysical topics such as the Trinity, truth, eternity, soul. Also available free and online at www.newadvent.com.
“Encyclopedia of Theology”, by Karl Rahner. Academic level articles on ideas of theology, 1800 pages.
“Butler’s Lives of the Saints”, different editors and editions. Mini biographies on hundreds of saints. Give a copy to spouse or children.
“Secular Saints”, by Joan Carroll Cruz. Thick book of spiritual biographies of 250 secular saints. No priests or nuns living in a vacuum here. These men, women, and children conquered their selves, then the challenges of faith, job, and family.
“Right and Reason”, by Austin Fagothey. This is a classic textbook on Catholic ethics and morality. It has gone through many editions over the years.
“An Exorcist Tells His Story”, by Fr. Gabriele Amorth. Stories from the Vatican’s chief exorcist. Thoughtful and instructive, examines the Devil and his workings. Also, “The Rite” by Matt Baglio; documents the training and practice of a Catholic priest sent to Italy for training in the rite of excorcism. Much insight into the dangers and limitations of the Devil.
“Wife, Mother and Mystic”, by Albert Bessieres. Spiritual biography of eighteenth century Roman wife, Anna Maria Taigi. Anna shared in God’s life in the most trying circumstances: course husband and in-laws, seven children. Anna cultivated heroic virtues of prayer and patience, foretold the future, saw distant events, made miraculous healings. Inspiring book for anyone living the challenges of daily life.
“General Metaphysics”, by Noonan. Introductory textbook on Metaphysics. Metaphysics is the science of spiritual being and an understanding is useful in the spiritual life. This text is often used in college and seminary courses.
“Our Sunday Visitor’s Encyclopedia of Catholic Doctrine”, edited by Russell Shaw. Useful and readable 700+ pages.
“The Dialogue”, by St. Catherine of Sienna. Christ’s revelations to St. Catherine concerning the spiritual life. Many versions in print for hundreds of years; get ISBN 0-8091-2233-2, as it uses modern English.
“The Desert Fathers”, by Helen Waddell. Lives of the desert ascetics about 400AD. Different circumstances than most live in, but instructive and inspiring.
“Raised from the Dead”, by Fr. Albert Hebert. 400 resurrection miracles by the saints. Presented in a positive, clean, and inspiring manner. Examines the potential of faith in this life.
“The Way of Divine Love”, by Sr. Josefa Menendez (1890-1923). Sr. Menendez was called by Christ to share in his redemptive sufferings. She died at age 33 after years of heroic suffering, and love. Christ guided her to the altar of sacrifice, and she recorded his advice and revelations.
--------------------ooOoo--------------------