Bishop Boyea, fifth bishop of the Diocese of Lansing recommends

Hymns of the Republic, The Story of the Final Year of the American Civil War, by S. C. Gwynne

My great-great grandfather, John Martin, and his father, Stephen Martin, served in the Michigan 16th Infantry from 1861-1864 during the Civil War. Thus, I have always been deeply interested in that conflict. Recently, I had the great joy to read S. C. Gwynne’s Hymns of the Republic, The Story of the Final Year of the American Civil War. (Scribner, 2019) What fascinated me the most about this text was its clear presentation of the battlefield process, which was the most persistent and devastating of the war, but also other non-fighting aspects of that national fratricide: social, political, economic, and even some religious. It is hard to believe all this took place over 160 years ago. You historians will enjoy this read.

Katie Baxter, CEO, Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties recommends

The Appalling Strangeness of the Mercy of God, edited by Michael Pakaluk

A fascinating biography from a husband's perspective about his wife, perhaps a modern-day saint, their Ivy League spiritual journey from atheism to Catholicism, their seven children, and her courageous battle with cancer. Through Ruth's own letters about ordinary life, you come to know her and will be inspired by her pro-life conviction and influence, and her profound wisdom and practical advice regarding faith amid suffering, and the life to come. There’s a surprise ending you won't want to miss.

Joseph J. Macklin, The Instrumentum Dei Studio, Artist recommends

How Catholic Art Saved the Faith, by Elizabeth Lev

Take a pilgrimage from home to the Eternal City this summer, and discover why art historian Elizabeth Lev titled her book How Catholic Art Saved the Faith. You will learn how the Catholic Church responded to the Reformation with beauty, restoring unity and strengthening our faith for centuries to come. A quick read that provides an education in sacred art, the book culminates in the very chapel where our popes are selected, with a look into Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment.”

Dr. Lee M. Cole, associate professor of philosophy, Hillsdale College recommends

Love and the Postmodern Predicament: Rediscovering the Real in Beauty, Goodness, and Truth, by D.C. Schindler

I’ve taught this text over the last four semesters at Hillsdale College. Authored by the current president of the American Catholic Philosophical Association, it seeks to diagnose and address contemporary cultural concerns — among them, growing isolation and relativism, abetted by an ever more pervasive use of technology. By drawing upon, but also refining, classical insights into the nature of love, beauty, goodness, and truth, Schindler provides resources for recognizing and deepening our communion with reality and others.

Kristin M. Collier, MD, assistant professor of medicine, University of Michigan recommends

How Should We Then Die?, by Dr. Ewan Goligher

In How Should We Then Die?, Dr. Ewan Goligher presents a thoughtful Christian critique of physician-assisted death. Drawing on his medical experience and Gospel-centered ethics, he affirms the intrinsic value of life and the redemptive meaning of suffering, urging believers to respond to death with faith and hope in the Resurrection. This is an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Christian perspective on physician-assisted suicide.