Books on the Spiritual Life

The Promises of Christ In an age of comfort and technology, many people, especially the young, still wrestle with discouragement and hopelessness. Fr. Milton Walsh points to a sure remedy: the promises Jesus Christ makes to us in the Gospels. Walsh invites readers to take Our Lord at His word, slowing down over ten of His promises that familiarity can dull. He speaks both to those who think the promises sound too good to be true and to those who feel too unworthy to receive them, reminding us...

The JPII Field Guide: An 8-Day Retreat with St. John Paul the Great invites you to spend eight days with the mountaineering, adventurous, courageous saint who led the Church into the third millennium. Catholic speaker and songwriter Jackie Angel draws on St. John Paul II's life and words to help you grow in virtue, courage, and bold faith through daily reflection, prayer, and practical challenges.

I'm Depressed--Now What?: St. Dymphna's Guide to Building Your Depression Playbook offers a compassionate Catholic approach to living with depression. Catholic therapist Tommy Tighe explains that when we are depressed we can't count on our own minds to find ways to cope, so it helps to build a "playbook" ahead of time. With practical strategies, encouragement to seek support, and the intercession of St. Dymphna, patron of those who suffer from mental illness, he helps readers find a path towa...

The Saint John Prayerbook: Biblical Meditations and Prayers Inspired by the Beloved Disciple invites you to pray with the disciple whom Jesus loved. St. John's Gospel has shaped the Church's understanding of prayer more than any other New Testament writing, yet many who admire him have never learned to pray through his words. Fr. Gabriel Mary Fiore offers meditations and prayers drawn from John's Gospel, letters, and life, leading you into his contemplative intimacy with Christ. A pocket-size...

St. Bernardine of Siena was a fearless Franciscan preacher who set out to reform the moral and social life of fifteenth-century Italy. Crowds gathered in city squares to hear him, and his words were written down as he spoke. In these sermons Bernardine confronts factional hatred, the poison of slander, and the lure of worldly vanity with striking clarity and genuine pastoral care. His devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus shines throughout, and his practical wisdom speaks just as directly to rea...

There is a hunger in every heart that the world cannot satisfy. Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen knew that hunger well, and for more than sixty years he met it in the same way: in a daily Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament. The Soul of a Disciple: Fulton Sheen's Meditations on the Cross, the Eucharist, and the Christian Life, compiled by Allan Smith, gathers the fruit of that prayer into short meditations for your own time with the Lord. Warm, direct, and deeply Eucharistic, they will help you ...

Restoring Your Wounded Heart: A Catholic Approach to Healing Trauma brings together sound therapeutic practice and the riches of the Catholic faith. Brya Hanan, a Catholic licensed marriage and family therapist and certified trauma specialist, helps readers understand how emotional wounds affect us, and how Scripture, prayer, and the sacraments open the way to God's healing love alongside good professional care.

Stay with Me, Lord: 30 Days with Padre Pio, part of the Great Spiritual Teachers series, invites you to spend a month praying with St. Pio of Pietrelcina. The Capuchin friar known for the stigmata, for long hours in the confessional, and for his fatherly care of souls speaks here through short daily readings, reflections, and prayers on suffering, trust, and closeness to Christ. A gentle and powerful retreat in everyday life.

Wiser Than Serpents: Unveiling the Truth of Sin and Sanctity with C. S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters is a guide to one of the most beloved Christian books of the last century. Theologian Andrew Swafford walks everyday Catholics through Screwtape's devilish advice to his nephew and turns it right side up, drawing out practical wisdom for resisting temptation, deepening prayer, and growing in holiness and trust in God. Great for individual reading and study groups.

"Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" In Jesus, the Rich Young Man, and the Meaning of Life: 6 Spiritual Disciplines for Finding Heaven, Even Now, bestselling authors Fr. Michael White and Tom Corcoran take up the question the rich young man asked Jesus. From that encounter they draw six practical habits that free us from what holds us back and lead to purpose, freedom, and joy in following Christ today.

In Hiking the Camino: Stories and Lessons from Walking 500 Miles with Jesus, Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, president of Franciscan University of Steubenville, recounts his pilgrimage across Spain on the Camino de Santiago. Through blisters, fatigue, unexpected encounters, and grace, he shares what the road taught him about detachment, perseverance, and love, and how steady, step-by-step faith draws every disciple closer to Christ.

The Whole World Will Love Me presents the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux in her own words, drawn from Story of a Soul into one intimate and flowing narrative. With simplicity and honesty, the Little Flower tells of her childhood, the loving influence of her holy parents and sisters, her bold entry into the Carmel at fifteen, and the "little way" of trust and love that made her one of the Church's most beloved saints and a Doctor of the Church. A moving introduction for newcomers and a fresh e...

Many people will never walk through a church door on their own. Bring Them to Jesus: Being Present, Personal, and Practical is a hopeful, field-tested guide for Catholics who want to share their faith with friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family. Drawing on decades of parish ministry and formation work with the Catherine of Siena Institute, Katherine R. Coolidge shows how authentic Christian friendship, attentive listening, and simple, practical steps can help others meet Jesus, who calls u...

"Many of us give up on prayer when we don't get the answer we want WHEN we want it." For nearly two decades, Saint Monica prayed for her wayward son. Years and years of prayers, seemingly unanswered. Countless tears shed with no relief. Yet she would not give up. That very act of persistent prayer blessed the entire Church, for we have all benefitted from the conversion of her son, Augustine, who became one of the most revered saints of all time. Parents of any age or at any stage can cultiva...

Here is the book you need to discover and develop the twelve virtues that St. John Baptist de La Salle (1651-1719) -- patron of teachers, education reformer, and founder of the congregation of the Brothers of the Christian Schools -- determined were most important for teachers. Br. Luke Grande, F.S.C., fleshes out the essence of each virtue as it relates to teaching and how educators can cooperate with God's grace to actualize the potentialities of students in their charge. In page after page...

In his masterful 12th-century work, The Twelve Degrees of Humility and Pride, St. Bernard of Clairvaux--the "Doctor Mellifluus" or "Honey-Sweet Doctor"-- eloquently crafts a soul's guide to spiritual ascent and descent. With his deep understanding of human nature and his own monastic experience, St. Bernard outlines a path that leads away from the self-deception of pride towards the liberating embrace of humility.St. Bernard illustrates humility as the foundation of a life anchored in truth, ...

Many of us fail to recognize that obtaining the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential to getting to heaven. We often block their reception through our own faults. We fail to see how they are passed on or strengthened in the sacraments. And, sadly, we forget to petition God in prayer to bestow these gifts upon us.In these pages, Dr. Kevin Vost best-selling author of The One-Minute Aquinas provides us with a substantive yet readable introduction to the seven gifts and how we ca...

The Notre Dame Book of Prayer is a treasured collection of prayers and reflections created for alumni, parents, and friends of the University of Notre Dame. First published in 2010 and now expanded with dozens of new prayers, it captures the university’s vibrant Catholic spiritual life. Arranged around twelve stunning full-color photographs of beloved campus landmarks—including the Grotto, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, St. Joseph and St. Mary’s Lakes, Touchdown Jesus, and Notre Dame Stadi...

This is the book you need to master your anger so your anger won't master you. Popular TV host, clinical psychologist, and best-selling author Dr. Ray Guarendi incisively cuts to the heart of the matter to help you determine whether your anger response is justified -- and what to do when it isn't. Dr. Guarendi unpacks for you the many types of anger and the types of people who suffer most from anger. For some, anger is a trait; for others, it is a state. Some are "wired fiery," with an anger ...

Whatever you're struggling with, you're not alone: there's a saint who is not only praying for you before the throne of God, but who went through the same thing you're going through. In Saintly Solutions, Fr. Joseph Esper introduces you to over 350 saints who suffered in ways that you and I suffer every day, and who will bring you, too, to peace! Fr. Esper considers over forty of life's common problems, showing how saints overcame these challenges and difficulties, and even grew holier as the...

With Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at the forefront of her vocation, Mother Angelica treasured her beloved Spouse in the Eucharist. She brought Him her joys, sufferings, and all the contents of her heart in Adoration. In twenty-nine brief and brilliant chapters, she guides us to do the same, with Scripture references and Mother's personal prayers, meditations, and intentions. An ever-faithful disciple of the Church and Her Tradition, Mother Angelica saved her most precious words for her ...

Drawing on Evangelical and Catholic exegetes, the Church Fathers, ancient liturgies, and later theological masters, Deep Mysteries explores how the events of Christ’s life possess real causal power to transform human existence today. Uniting history, metaphysics, and contemplative meditation, the book reveals how the mysteries of Jesus are not merely past events but living realities that shape the believer’s present journey.

Finding True Happiness is the essential guide to achieving true fulfillment and satisfaction in life. Many books attempt to tackle the issue of seeking happiness, but no other book combines such breadth and depth of philosophical knowledge, psychological insight, and spiritual wisdom in a practical guide that can lead your journey towards finding lasting contentment.From understanding self-esteem and taking control of emotions, to harnessing positivity and cultivating purpose, this book leads...

Winner of a 2025 CMA Book Award from the Catholic Media Association: Healing and Self Help (First Place). The wounds we carry from childhood—whether from trauma, neglect, or unmet needs—often remain hidden, yet they continue to affect how we relate to ourselves, others, and God. No matter how much time has passed, our “inner child” remembers. In Befriending Your Inner Child: A Catholic Approach to Inner Healing, licensed marriage and family therapist Brya Hanan offers a gentle and faith-cente...

This classic work from Thomas à Kempis, author of The Imitation of Christ, is now available in English for the first time. It is a simple truth that, without the virtue of humility, we cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven. It simply cannot be done. Just as pride is the root and source of all sin, so is humility the foundational virtue in which all other virtues must be grounded if they are to bear fruit. Humility is the heartbeat of the saints. It is the virtue that conforms us most closely to ...

Sometimes it is difficult to understand God's will for our lives, especially when times are tough or when something happens that disturbs us. Mother Angelica counsels us in these pages to stop simply existing and start living. "You are called to be holy!" Beloved by many, the practical wisdom of Mother Mary Angelica radiates from this book as she guides you through Scripture and the writings of St. John, St. James, and St. Paul. Replete with stirring real-life examples, Mother Angelica both c...

Though they escape the notice of many, stunning miracles of healing take place each and every day at Our Lady's Grotto in Lourdes, France. Inexplicable, biblical-like healings of body, mind, and spirit leave visitors with the gifts of peace and renewed faith. Here is the book that will move you, deepen your faith in Our Lady's active involvement in our world, and help you personally encounter Our Lord.Marlene Watkins recounts twenty astounding true stories of miracles at Lourdes, including he...

Winner of a 2025 Excellence in Publishing Award from the Association of Catholic Publishers: Inspirational (Second Place). Every educator needs encouragement and support when facing the challenges of teaching—whether it’s managing a noisy classroom, handling a tough parent conference, or navigating staff meetings and lesson planning. In A Saint Squad for Teachers, veteran teacher Amy Cattapan introduces forty-five saints ready to accompany and intercede for educators through every season of t...

Besides the graces of the Sacraments, God has another way for us to grow in faith from a mustard seed into a giant tree. And that way is a life of virtue. A virtue is a habit, something that must be practiced daily if it is to increase. At our Baptism, we received the virtues of faith, hope, and love. In this children's book, authors Patrick O'Hearn and Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, with beautiful illustrations by Adalee Hude, describe 15 of the most important virtues for boys and girls. We begin...

Only Jesus, first published in English in 1962, is the last of Luis M. Martínez's writings, and widely hailed as his magnum opus. Combining robust doctrine and authentic mysticism, Martínez leads his readers through a quadripartite meditation on the person of Jesus Christ. In Part One, he considers the unfolding of revelation through the Incarnation, public ministry, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Parts Two and Three reflect on the union between Jesus and the Christian faithful,...

St. Frances of Rome (1384-1440) displayed mystical gifts from childhood. Though she longed to remain a virgin, her parents arranged a marriage for her, and, as a wife and mother, she led a devout life that mirrored that of a consecrated religious, through fervent prayer and tireless works of charity. In fact, she founded a community of Benedictine oblates who live according to the Rule of St. Benedict, each according to her own state in life; the community now counts thousands of members worl...

In Visions of the Divine, Catholic evangelist, author, and businessman Steve Auth reunites the art of the Eucharist with the Eucharistic liturgy itself. Much of this art was separated from the context of the Mass for which it was created many centuries ago and is relegated now to museums sprinkled around the world. Along with his co-authors Evelyn Auth and Msgr. Roger Landry, Steve leads the reader on a worldwide pilgrimage to some of the most spectacular and moving artistic masterpieces crea...

Miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss happen more often than we realize, leaving many to suffer in isolation. This unique companion will help those grieving from child loss as they search for comfort and meaning. Couples will encounter the experiences of holy people who suffered loss, such as Sts. Louis and Zélie Martin, St. Gianna Molla, and Servant of God Chiara Corbella Petrillo. Parents will also receive hope and consolation from firsthand stories of modern-day parents who have experie...

A Summary of the Spiritual Life: Simplified and Arranged for Daily Reading, Reflection and Prayer Written with loving care by Father Anthony Paone, as a dialogue with Christ himself, this devotional will strengthen your love for Christ and his teachings. Father Paone leads the reader through the three ways of the spiritual life: Purification, Imitation, and Union. My Daily Bread overflows with reflections and prayers specifically designed to help you grow in the spiritual life and overcome fa...

Introducing the Five Pillars of the Spiritual Life, a revolutionary guide written by Fr. Spitzer, President of Gonzaga University and esteemed spiritual teacher and writer. Perfect for those who strive to maintain a regular spiritual life while leading hectic lifestyles, this book offers insights on how to both grow closer to God and stay engaged with everyday life at the same time. Drawing from years of experience in organizing successful retreats and seminars, Fr. Spitzer has distilled key ...

The power of a woman is most concretely observed in the seeds she plants, day after day, in the lives of those around her. Soul Garden is a sizable collection of personal stories, essays, poems, and recipes written to cultivate the motherly role of women by offering inspiration, camaraderie, and encouragement.Contributors from across the country and around the world invite readers to put away their screens and to pick up this lovely, tangible book, in which they can find nourishment for the s...

Discover what it means to become a man of faith through the lives of ten male saints and their experiences pursuing holiness. In Holy Grit, Catholic life coach Paul George invites men to confront the challenges of modern life—struggles in marriage, parenting, suffering, and purpose—and take concrete steps toward the life God created them to live. Many men grow up with an image of masculinity shaped by tough guys on TV—boxers, cowboys, gangsters, fighter pilots—the fastest gun in the West. The...

Embark on a spiritual journey into God's Heart and experience some of the most powerful and time-tested expressions of prayer. You will find, together in this one book, all the tools you need to form the daily habit of communing with God, to develop a steady prayer life, and to receive the life-giving water that God offers you at every moment.This book is an invaluable resource for use as a Lenten or year-round devotional, a do-it-yourself parish mission, or a guide for families and parishion...

Spiritual writer, theologian, and philosopher Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D., tackles the topic of recognizing and overcoming spiritual evil. His focus is the human heart. His goal: our spiritual and moral transformation, which leads to true peace and genuine happiness.The book is divided into two main parts: (1) the realities of God's goodness and of spiritual evil, and (2) recognizing and overcoming the diabolical tactics of deception, temptation, and sin. The author synthesizes the best a...

This book is a collection of homilies crafted for Sundays, solemnities, and significant feasts in the liturgical calendar's Year C cycle. The book begins with an exploration of the Christology of the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing Jesus as the universal and compassionate Savior, deeply rooted in the fulfillment of God's promises. It outlines themes central to Luke's Gospel, such as Jesus' outreach to the marginalized, His Spirit-filled mission, and the role of prayer in His ministry. The homilie...

This book explores the transformative encounters with Christ that shaped the lives of the saints and set them on the path to holiness. Through the lives of Mary, St. Joseph, St. Paul, St. Teresa of Avila, St. Augustine, and others, Kristina Olsen traces how grace works patiently through struggle, conversion, and growth to form mature Christian souls. Rather than presenting idealized figures, the book highlights the real human journey of faith: moments of doubt, interior conflict, mystical exp...

This book explores the transformative power of divine partnership, showing how God works through human imperfections to achieve extraordinary results. Drawing from scripture, personal anecdotes, and life lessons, the book demonstrates that collaboration with God is not limited to saints or the gifted-it is accessible to everyone. The central theme is that faith and trust in God allow ordinary individuals to participate in extraordinary accomplishments while finding fulfillment and simplicity....

Devotional writer Lisa Livezey understands the challenges of full-time caregiving atop an already-full life. Following her father's sudden death, Lisa was plunged headlong into caring for her mother who was battling Alzheimer's. With wisdom and candor, Lisa pairs every day and extraordinary caregiving moments with scriptures, prayers, and reflections. Caregivers will:

or Friendliness and its Relevance in Modern Evangelization This book explores the critical role of affability in contemporary outreach, aiming to bring this often-overlooked virtue into the spotlight. The author engages the writings of Pope Francis and selected saints expressing that affability is a virtue which impacts human relations for the good of the world, propelling evangelization efforts to the fullest level. The reason for its effectiveness is because friendly interactions influence ...

This book offers a gentle and hope-filled meditation on the mystery of death, a reality no one can avoid. Rather than approaching death with fear or abstraction, it invites the reader to place their trust in God’s love, a love that has gone to the greatest lengths to open the way to eternal life. Rhonda Chervin reflects on death through the lens of Christian hope, showing how confidence in God’s mercy and fidelity transforms anxiety into peace. By drawing the reader into deeper awareness of G...

'Act in such a way that all those who come in contact with you will go away joyful. Sow happiness about you because you have received much from God.' St Faustina Mercy In All Things is a series of prayerful reflections based on the Diary of St Faustina, the Saint of Divine Mercy. Drawing on selected quotations from her Diary, these thoughtful and topical reflections provide an introduction to the prayer of this great saint, who dedicated her life to spreading the message of God's love through...

This Spiritual Life Series title offers minute meditations for each day of the year. Each daily entry provides a quote on the life and legacy of St. Francis from the writings of either the Saint himself or one of his early brothers or from the Papal Bull Mira Circa Nos of Pope Gregory IX, which proclaimed the canonization of St. Francis; a reflection; and a scriptural prayer.