Understanding the Sacraments 

by Father Chris Alar, MIC

Another great offering from Marian Press. Father Chris Alar’s conversational, practical style makes this a compelling study for a wide range of readers. Father Alar takes us “back to seminary” with him and explains why Catholics believe the seven sacraments are solidly rooted in Scripture and the Apostolic tradition and interpreted for us by the teaching of the Church. Each sacrament is explained thoughtfully and with an informed commentary, often pre-empting the questions modern Catholics frequently raise.

Recommended for new Catholics who want a solid companion to the Catechism that helps explain the Sacraments further, and also for those conscious of their need to educate themselves better about their long-held beliefs.

City of God

by Augustine of Hippo

This Penguin Classics version of St. Augustine’s theological masterpiece, City of God is once more drawing interest from both the secular and the Church world, especially since a “son of Augustine” became Pope. Pope Leo frequently references both Augustine’s Confessions and his City of God, and commentators have suggested that these texts will serve as key inspirations for his pontificate. Certainly, Augustine’s timeless analysis of the two cities, one of God and one of the world, and how they interact in human history to achieve God’s purposes will resonate with modern readers. This volume is a solid, respected translation with helpful footnotes, and a thoughtful introduction that serves to inform the reader about the parallels between our era and that of St. Augustine, and the significance of this early Church Father and Doctor of the Church.

Recommended for all those building a library of Christian Classics and anyone interested in understanding more about Pope Leo’s thought and spirituality.

Journey Into His Heart

by Barbara Heil

Barbara Heil’s journey from Pentecostalism to the Catholic Church is both an inspirational read and an invitation to deeper faith. Heil recounts how the love of Jesus broke into her life at the age of sixteen, leading her to become a fervent Christian and then a missionary in the Pentecostal movement. But something drew her to explore Catholicism and ponder the beliefs and practices that underpin it. Guided by the Holy Spirit, she overcame her fears about leaving a thriving ministry to obey the call to embrace the Church. Her story reveals the beautiful care God takes of us when we are willing to grapple with belief honestly and humbly.

Recommended for Catholics who have been raised in other denominations who are reflecting on their own journeys and Catholic evangelists who want to better understand candidates coming out of strong Bible-based churches who have already experienced a deep encounter with God but are drawn to Catholicism.