God Is At Work In You!: Why Have A BLACK Friday?

This Christmas, give gifts that have eternal value!

If you are looking for meaningful gifts for the special people on your list, consider the following books. Some we read and loved, others we loved and wrote.

Keeping in mind that many people are suffering in various ways during the holidays, the recommended books for adults and children make ideal gifts because they encourage, inspire, and most importantly share the love of God with our brothers and sisters in need of compassion.

A few favorite DVDs conclude the gift suggestions.

Books For Adults:

Bethlehem: The Sacred Infancy of Our Most Dear and Blessed Redeemer, by Fr. Frederick William Faber

Before it is even opened, the title prepares the reader for the spiritual riches contained in this absolutely extraordinary book. If you are looking for an ideal way to prepare your heart for the coming of the Lord, you will find it here.

https://tanbooks.benedictpress.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/59/keywords/bethlehem/

Anything by Fr. Faber.

The eight book set includes All For Jesus, Bethlehem, The Precious Blood, Spiritual Conferences, The Blessed Sacrament, The Creator and the Creature, The Foot of the Cross, and Growth in Holiness. The set makes a phenomenal gift, as do any of his individual books.

https://tanbooks.benedictpress.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/294/keywords/bethlehem/

Divine Intimacy: Meditations on the Interior Life for Every Day of the Liturgical Year, by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, O.C.D.

This book is absolutely phenomenal and should be in every Catholic home. Leather bound; a beautiful gift with eternal value that keeps on giving.

http://www.amazon.com/Divine-Intimacy-Meditations-Interior-Liturgical/dp/0895558173

The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas A. Kempis

If you have not given this book to loved ones for First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Baptism, Holy Orders, Easter, or at any other time, this book is a must-have for every Catholic and should be available everywhere people are loved and valued (that's everywhere there are people). An absolute favorite. We're partial to the books having the red cover.

http://www.catholiccompany.com/imitation-christ-prayerbook-size-edition-p1011121/

The Life of Christ, by Fulton J. Sheen

Truly a Divinely inspired book. Your love for Jesus is sure to grow as you read this one. The Life of Christ belongs in every Catholic home and library.

http://www.amazon.com/Life-Christ-Fulton-J-Sheen/dp/0385132204

The Rainbow of Sorrow, by Fulton J. Sheen

While we prefer the original cover, with the wonderful picture of Archbishop Sheen on the back, this book is very insightful, educational, inspirational, and encouraging. At 110 pages, it is easy to read. This book is a wonderful addition to any library, and is one people will refer to over and over through the years. An exceptional gift for those who are suffering, and an excellent resource to help us prepare for trials. Provides great insight for those serving others in need of encouragement.

http://www.catholiccompany.com/imitation-christ-prayerbook-size-edition-p1011121/

Anything by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen.

One year, we bought enough of his books (used) off the internet to fill a medium-sized box and gave them to someone special as a gift. It was a huge delight for the recipient to receive so much phenomenal material from a family favorite, and the books made a surprisingly economical, and priceless, gift.

http://www.fultonsheen.com/Fulton_Sheen_books.cfm

We especially love The Eternal Galilean, his autobiography Treasure in Clay, Divine Romance, The Seven Last Words, and The Way of the Cross, Giant Print Edition (out of print so you'll have to search for it used) http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0879736593/legionofstmichaeA/.

My Daily Bread, by Fr. Anthony Paone

Phenomenal reflections in this easy-to-read book. This exceptional book includes key principles of the way of purification, the way of imitation and the way of union. An ideal gift for any occasion, particularly at Christmas and also for those making their Sacraments. My Daily Bread belongs in every Catholic home and library collection. Giving this book is also a wonderful way to share the love of God with those who are suffering. 439 pages of spiritual riches; softcover. Small enough to tuck into a computer bag or purse.

http://www.catholicfreeshipping.com/Products/cfs_gensym-152.html

The Cure' D' Ars: St. Jean-Marie-Baptiste Vianney, by Abbe' Francis Trochu

From the book: The definitive life, based on the official "Process of Beatification and Canonization," and thus totally factual and documented. Of humble education and assigned to a forgotten farmers' village, he attracted the whole world to Ars and was proclaimed "Patron Saint of Parish Priests" in 1929. He ate one meal a day, slept only a few hours a night, heard confessions up to 17 hours a day, converted thousands. His body remains incorrupt. A grace-filled story of total love of God! One of our absolute favorite saints; truly an inspiring, life-changing book.

http://www.amazon.com/Cure-DArs-St-Jean-Marie-Baptiste-Vianney/dp/0895550202

One Man's Journey to Freedom: Escape From Behind the Iron Curtain, by Gene X. Kortsha

This multiple award-winning epic book has it all including gripping drama, history, miracles, humor, and romance. A Divinely inspired story, brilliantly told; truly an exceptional, life-changing book worthy of man's great dignity. Makes an ideal gift for those who enjoy history and autobiographies, although this substantial book will touch the soul of every reader in a very special way.

http://www.amazon.com/One-Mans-Journey-Freedom-Curtain/dp/1935356135

A Witness to Hope: The Biography of Pope John Paul II, by George Weigel

An impressive gift at 992 pages, but do not be intimidated. As William J. Bennett said, this book is "A spectacular biography about one of the twentieth century's monumental figures...Learned, fast-paced, deeply insightful, and genuinely inspirational. An extraordinary accomplishment. " What a way to show someone you care! :>)

http://www.amazon.com/Witness-Hope-Biography-Pope-John/dp/006018793X

Sermons of the Cure' of Ars, by St. John Vianney

Delightful and powerful sermons of St. John Vianney. Wow. WOW!! +

https://tanbooks.benedictpress.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/435/keywords/sermons+cure+ars/

Will You Spread My Word For Me? by Sean C. McVeigh

This delightful book is loaded with wisdom, inspires Catholics to grow closer to God, and fosters efforts to share the faith with others. A must-read for adult Catholics; you'll wish there was a sequel. ;>)

http://www.amazon.com/Will-You-Spread-My-Word/dp/098410111X

A Man of the Beatitudes: Pier Giorgio Frassati, by Luciana Frassati (his sister)

The moving biography of Pier Giorgio Frassati, "a handsome, athletic and fun-loving young man from a rich, aristocratic Italian family in the 1920's who was recently beatified by Pope John Paul II. Pier Giorgio turned from a life of privilege to one devoted to working with the poor, and was a courageous witness of Christian faith and charity to many others. Discouraged by his affluent parents from his religious involvement and deep spiritual life, Pier Giorgio secretly ministered to the poor and marginalized, and was a leader of youth whose love of God transformed the lives of all those around him. He died of the polio virus at the age of 24, and the story of his life and death spread throughout Europe, influencing the young Karol Wojtyla, who as Pope John Paul II described Frassati as 'a man of the eight beatitudes.'" A fantastic book for adults and young adults.

http://www.amazon.com/Man-Beatitudes-Pier-Giorgio-Frassati/dp/0898708613

Also check out Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati: An Ordinary Christian, by Maria Di Lorenzo

We love Blessed Pier Giorgio SO MUCH that this book is being suggested as well. If you, and those on your list, do not know of Blessed Pier Giorgio, you should! This book about his life will inspire readers to greater sanctity. *blissful sigh*

http://www.amazon.com/Blessed-Pier-Giorgio-Frassati-Christian/dp/0819811629/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321984090&sr=8-1

Your Personal Apostolate: Accepting and Sharing the Love of God, by Michele Elena Bondi

An award-winning love story for every soul. A beautiful gift that encourages the recipient to recognize, accept, return and share the love of God through his/her personal apostolate. A great resource to encourage others to discover or rediscover the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. God is at work in you! Hardcover; 95 pages.

http://www.amazon.com/Your-Personal-Apostolate-Accepting-Sharing/dp/1935356011

The Secret of Mary, by St. Louis De Montfort

The reader's life will never be the same. To Jesus, through Mary! Absolutely fantastic, and it doesn't require a long time to read this small book. It does, however, require a lifetime to live it. ;>) Share the love!

http://www.amazon.com/Secret-Mary-Louis-M-Montfort/dp/0895556170/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321929845&sr=1-1

A Heart for Freedom: The Remarkable Journey of a Young Dissident, Her Daring Escape, and Her Quest to Free China's Daughters, by Chai Ling

Historic, inspirational, dramatic, educational, spiritual, and life-changing. An incredible story; highly recommended.

http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Freedom-Remarkable-Dissident-Daughters/dp/161045281X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321930306&sr=1-1

The Life of Mary as Seen by the Mystics, compiled by Raphael Brown

This easy-to-read story combines the visions of four great Catholic mystics on the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary into one coherent story. Based primarily on the famous revelations of Ven. Anne Catherine Emmerich and Ven. Mary of Agreda, it also includes many episodes described in the writings of St. Bridget of Sweden and St. Elizabeth of Schoenau. Readers may find themselves reading this book more than once. The account of the death of St. Joseph is especially beautiful and very moving.

http://www.amazon.com/Life-Mary-As-Seen-Mystics/dp/0895554364

God Moments II: Recognizing the Fruits of the Holy Spirit, written and compiled by Michele Elena Bondi

This compilation of stories from Catholic authors, home educators, publishers, pro-life advocates, and speakers is a celebration of Catholicism and makes a great gift. The personal accounts will help create a greater awareness of God s unfathomable love for the reader and for every person, increase his/her understanding of the meaning and purpose of his/her life, and inspire the reader to greater virtue and deeper surrender to God.

Books For Engaged or Married Couples:

Three to Get Married, by Fulton J. Sheen. http://www.catholicfreeshipping.com/Products/cfs_gensym-119.html

From the book: One of the greatest and best-loved spokesmen for the Catholic Faith sets out the Church's beautiful understanding of marriage in his trademark clear and entertaining style. Frankly and charitably, Sheen presents the causes of and solutions to common marital crises, and tells touching real-life stories of people whose lives were transformed through marriage. He emphasizes that our Blessed Lord is at the center of every successful and loving marriage.

Come My Beloved, by Ellen Gable Hrkach http://www.amazon.com/Come-My-Beloved-Inspiring-Courtship/dp/0973673613

A compilation of 12 inspiring, captivating, and entertaining courtship/dating stories. This book is a celebration of faith and enduring love, and reminds readers that God is the ideal matchmaker.

Marriage is for Keeps, by John F. Kippley http://www.amazon.com/Marriage-Keeps-Foundations-Christian/dp/0926412124

An invaluable book for engaged or married couples. An excellent resource for those in religious formation, anyone involved in marriage preparation, educators, and young people. Makes a fantastic, and invaluable, gift!

Booklets:

Booklets make fantastic gifts when something smaller is most appropriate. Have a lot of people to shop for? Need holiday gifts of appreciation? Know of someone in need of encouragement? These booklets are compact, economical, and at the same time priceless!

Consider these gems:

Thoughts of the Cure' D' Ars, by St. John Marie Baptiste Vianney

There is so much wisdom in this book, you won't believe it is only $3.00. Buy multiple copies and keep them on hand to give out throughout the year. They make great stocking stuffers! The booklet also makes a lovely token of appreciation, and is great to give out to others in need of an encouraging word.

https://tanbooks.benedictpress.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/198/keywords/sermons+cure+ars/

Novena of Holy Communions, by Fr. Lawrence G. Lovasic, S.V.D.

Just imagine the benefits of saying a novena of Holy Communions! Packed with beautiful sentiments, this booklet is of unfathomable worth and is only $2.50! This is another great booklet to have on hand and give out throughout the year. Be sure to get a copy for yourself! Makes a great stocking stuffer. Say the novena for the intentions of others, and send them a spiritual bouquet!

https://tanbooks.benedictpress.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/422/keywords/novena+holy+communions/

Infant of Prague Novena

Phenomenal, and only $2.50. Happy birthday, Jesus!

http://www.adoremusbooks.com/infantofpraguenovenabook.aspx

Favorite Novenas to the Holy Spirit, by Fr. Lawrence G. Lovasic, S.V.D.

More wow, at $1.95 each.

http://www.amazon.com/Favorite-Novenas-Spirit-Lawrence-Lovasik/dp/0899420621

St. Jude Novena

Recipients of this beautiful booklet will learn much they didn't know about this remarkable man as they pray the novena to the patron saint of hopeless cases. St. Jude's life story celebrates the underdog, and his intercession is very powerful. Very inspirational; only $2.50.

http://www.adoremusbooks.com/stjudenovenabook.aspx

The Way of the Cross: According to the Method of St. Francis of Assisi

Only $1.50, it seems too good to be true for such incredible spiritual riches. But it IS true! +
God is so in love with us.

http://www.amazon.com/Way-Cross-Franciscan-Text/dp/0895553147/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1322004950&sr=1-2

Prayers and a Novena to St. Philomena

Not a booklet per se, but rather a beautiful tri-fold prayer card. Recommended because of the incredible spiritual benefits of asking for the intercession of this remarkable child martyr. Always pray with a spirit of reverence for God's will, and with confidence that God hears all our prayers, loves us beyond measure, always knows best, and has impeccable timing.

http://www.discountcatholicproducts.com/St-Philomena-Novena-Tri-fold-Card-P11847.aspx

Children's Books:

Exceptional books worthy of our children's great dignity.

Olivia and the Little Way, by Nancy Carabio Belanger

"Fifth grader Olivia Thomas has moved to a new school in a new state, and is eager to make friends! Her best friend quickly becomes someone she has never seen: St. Therese of Lisieux. Follow Olivia's trials as she tries to fit in at St. Michael's School. With the help of her grandmother, she learns about the Little Way of serving God and how it can change everything!" This award-winning book celebrates a wholesome childhood while treating readers to a great story. An excellent choice for both boys and girls, truly a book worthy of their great dignity.

http://www.amazon.com/Olivia-Little-Nancy-Carabio-Belanger/dp/0923568921/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321932574&sr=1-2

Olivia's Gift, by Nancy Carabio Belanger

"Olivia prepares to follow the Little Way into 7th grade. School is out for the year and it's time for a fun beach adventure. However, Olivia discovers that sometimes it can be difficult to be a good Catholic when you're in middle school -- she discovers that she needs God and St. Therese more than ever.

"In this beautiful novel that celebrates modesty and the precious gift of life, Olivia learns that it takes blind faith every day -- and that God is never far away, even on vacation. This captivating story is accompanied with beautiful illustrations by returning artist Sandra Casali LewAllen." This multiple award-winning book makes an exceptional gift for preteens.

http://www.amazon.com/Olivia-Little-Nancy-Carabio-Belanger/dp/0923568921

Brother Jerome and the Angels in the Bakery, by Fr. Dominic Garramone

Brother Jerome opens the monastery bakery to the public, fills it with delicious freshly baked goods, and then finds himself lacking customers. With the help of his guardian angel Gus, Abbot Pasqualino, the angels in the bakery, and prayer, Brother Jerome finds the courage to persevere despite initial disappointments. Will anyone come in to the monastery to buy Brother Jerome's wonderful baked goods?

This touching story by Fr. Dominic Garramone, O.S.B., with charming illustrations by Richard Bernal, encourages children and adults alike to keep pursuing their dreams, and makes an ideal addition to every family library. Be sure to share this book with the special children in your life. Together, you will reinforce the value of perseverance, and trust in God, while creating treasured memories with those you love.

http://www.amazon.com/Brother-Jerome-Angels-Dominic-Garramone/dp/1933370645

Our Treasure, written by Michele Elena Bondi, Illustrated by Kristina Marie Pope

Children learn during story time that there is priceless Treasure waiting for them, whenever they want to become very rich. Do you know where our Treasure can be found?

Discover Treasure with the special children in your life. After discovering the Treasure, young children will enjoy going back through the book in search of charming religious images. Winner of nine 2011 book awards; makes an exceptional keepsake gift. This hardcover book celebrates Catholicism, Jesus' presence among us, and God's great love for every person.

http://www.amazon.com/Our-Treasure-Michele-Elena-Bondi/dp/1935356143

The Cure' of Ars: The Priest Who Out-Talked the Devil, by Milton Lomask

The story of St, John Vianney, a farm boy born during the French Revolution who longed to become a priest. Despite facing challenges that seemed insurmountable, he not only became a priest, but was so holy that he is known as the patron saint of parish priests. A wonderful book for individual reading, and also a treasure to share with children at story time.

http://www.amazon.com/Cure-Ars-Priest-Out-Talked-Devil/dp/0898706009

Your Teen Apostolate: Accepting and Sharing the Love of God, by Andre J. Bottesi and Michele E. Bondi

Catholic Press Association 2010 Best Children's Book of the Year; 2010 Best Family Life Book of the Year. "Scriptural, devotional and practical, these two books present wonderful life lessons that celebrate teens and preteens and their faith. Excellent not only for teens and preteens, but also for those who walk with them on their daily journey of faith in accepting and sharing the love of God." ~Catholic Press Association

http://www.amazon.com/Your-Teen-Apostolate-Accepting-Sharing/dp/1935356062

Your Preteen Apostolate: Accepting and Sharing the Love of God, by Nicholas J. Bottesi and Michele E. Bondi

Catholic Press Association 2010 Best Children's Book of the Year; 2010 Best Family Life Book of the Year, 2010 Purple Dragonfly children's book award-winner. "Scripture Passages are illustrated with stories from teen’s lives which makes the book very attractive during their formative years. Reflection questions and a meditation accompany each chapter for integration of the principles in the easily read book for teens." ~Catholic Press Association

https://www.google.com/search?q=your+preteen+apostolate&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

I've Got To Change, by Sean C. McVeigh

An excellent book for teens and young adults. Catholic author and speaker Sean McVeigh provides his dramatic personal testimony, sharing with readers vital life lessons as they acquire confidence to grow in virtue. Interesting and inspiring; a very useful tool to reinforce the unfathomable value of living life with and for God.

http://www.amazon.com/Ive-Got-Change-Sean-McVeigh/dp/059535047X

Friendship with Jesus: Pope Benedict XVI Speaks to Children on Their First Holy Communion, by Amy Welborn, Illustrated by Ann Kissane Engelhart

The story shares a delightful message, and the pictures are just beautiful. This keepsake book is a celebration of Jesus' love for every person, and an extraordinary visual celebration of Catholicism. Makes a great gift for Christmas, First Holy Communion, or any special occasion.

http://www.amazon.com/Friendship-Jesus-Benedict-Children-Communion/dp/1586176196/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321987707&sr=8-1

To Save A Thousand Souls: A Guide to Discerning a Vocation to the Diocesan Priesthood, by Fr. Brett A. Brennan

Despite the subtitle, we highly recommend that all young people, males and females alike, read this book. Fr. Brennan provides a great deal of useful information vital for youth, information they may not get anywhere else. The stories are interesting, insightful, and moving, and keep readers engaged as the book helps them discern the answer to the question, What is my vocation? This book leads readers to have a greater appreciation for those called to the Sacred Priesthood of Jesus Christ. Leave it out the next time you have people over and you may be amazed how much interest it generates among the adults! We absolutely love this book.

http://www.amazon.com/Save-Thousand-Souls-Discerning-Priesthood/dp/0615345514

Recommended DVDs