New in the Parish Library
1)
Choosing Joy. The Secret to Living a Fully Christian Life by Dan Lord (02120).
You might expect a book on Christian joy to be written by a theologian. Surprisingly, the author is an
ex-punk rocker who describes himself not as an expert but likens himself to a sports announcer who is a
passionate fan of the game but not a skilled athlete. His down-to-earth approach and enthusiastic love of God
shows the reader how to tackle the daily grind, let go of worry, pain and suffering, and receive the happiness
and peace the world cannot give.
2) Lumen Fidei. The Light of Faith. By Pope Francis (02187).
Written in part by Pope Benedict XVI , this first encyclical of Pope Francis proclaims, “ in God’s great
gift of faith…we realize that a great love has been offered us, a good word has been spoken to us, and that
when we welcome that word, Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, the Holy Spirit transforms us, lights up our
way to the future, and enables us joyfully to advance along that way on wings of hope”. Reading this
encyclical instills an appreciation of faith as an encounter with the living God which illuminates every aspect of
our existence.
3) 7 Secrets of Confession by Vinny Flynn (02165).
To many Catholics, confession (Reconciliation) is just the means by which we clean up so we can go to
Communion. Others may view confession with fear, reluctance, or indifference. But, as Pope Francis tells us,
confession is much more than “going to the dry cleaner.” It’s “an encounter with Jesus who waits for us as we
are.” Reading 7 Secrets of Confession may not only change the way you look at the Sacrament of
Reconciliation, but it may change your life. According to Fr. Donald Calloway, author of Under the Mantle:
Marian Thoughts from a 21st Century Priest, “You are going to love Vinny Flynn’s latest gem, 7 Secrets of
Confession!”
4)
Jacob’s Ladder. 10 Steps to Truth by Peter Kreeft.( 02218).
Does truth exist ? if so, can we know what is true? Kreeft creatively answers these questions using an
imaginary conversation between two people who meet on a beach. He takes a logical, step-by-step approach
similar to climbing the rungs of a ladder. In the end, he exposes the many fallacies of contemporary moral and
philosophical relativism. This book is not a “light read”, but it is a thought-provoking adventure of the mind by
an author who has been called “…our generation’s C.S. Lewis” (quote from apologist Patrick Madrid.)
If you like fiction ….
Sweet Dreams by Karen Valentine (02281).
What would you do if your family and your life were suddenly ripped apart? Sweet Dreams is a story of
redemption, forgiveness and the power of faith to turn tragedies into triumphs and transform broken lives.
Treason by Dena Hunt (02283).
“Treason is one of the most powerful historical novels I’ve ever read. It brings to vivid and shocking life the age
in which Shakespeare lived and in which the English martyrs died.” (quote from Joseph Pearce, writer-in-residence,
Thomas Moore College of Liberal Arts.
Do No Harm by Fiorella de Maria (02282)
When a British emergency room physician saves the life of a woman who attempted suicide, he is accused of a
crime and put on trial. As if drawn from today’s headlines, Do No Harm explores contemporary beliefs about medical
ethics, conscience protection, autonomy and human rights.
Great New DVDs ….
Pius XII. Under the Roman Sky.
Acclaimed actor James Cromwell stars in this powerful drama about the
struggle waged by the Pope and many others with him to hide over 10,000 Italian Jews from the occupying Nazi forces
in WWII. Based on Vatican documents and personal testimonies, the movie portrays the perilous effort to save the lives
of over 10,000 Jewish men, women, and children. The film is well produced and skillfully acted. English with Spanish
subtitles. 200 minutes. Not rated.
Padre Pro.
This movie tells the heroic story of Fr. Miguel Agustin Pro, a Jesuit priest martyred during the Mexican
Revolution. Padre Pro’s story is compelling and inspiring. Filmed in Spanish with English subtitles. 98 minutes. Not
rated.
Restless Heart. The Confessions of St. Augustine.
Recently seen in theaters this newly released DVD
chronicles the life of Augustine of Hippo – from reckless youth, unmarried father, and renowned orator to convert,
Bishop, and one of the greatest Christian saints. Along the way you will meet St. Monica, his mother, and St. Ambrose,
His mentor. Choose to play either the 203 minute full-length film or the 113 minute theatrical-release version. Spanish
subtitles. Not rated.
God’s Mighty Servant.
This is the amazing story of Sr. Pascalina Lenhart. From a humble and unhappy childhood
to her appointment as personal secretary to Pope Pius XII, this strong-headed yet good-hearted nun became known as
“the most powerful woman in the Vatican”. This is a perfect companion film to Pius XII. Under the Roman Sky. German
with English subtitles. 200 minutes.
The Ultimate Life.
See this unique combination of follow-up and prequel to the heartwarming film and best-selling
book, The Ultimate Gift. 110 minutes. Spanish subtitles. Rated PG for a brief battle scene.