Despite my inactivity here for… far too long, I’ve still been reading like a fiend in the background. Some books have completely missed the mark (and don’t belong on my “religion” shelf at all), but there were many standouts during my hiatus. So here’s a quick & easy recap of my top religion reads since the last time I discussed books here. Links lead to my full review on goodreads!
Crossing the Threshold of Hope – Pope John Paul II
This landed in the “top 5” books of 2021 overall, a worthy addition. It’s a deceptive little book, a conversation with Pope John Paul II that you think you’ll know his answers to. You don’t. It often addresses the root of issues rather than the issues themselves, which is what makes it a sometimes frustrating but altogether satisfying read.
The Way of Perfection – Theresa of Avila
Written for cloistered nuns, but perhaps more applicable to laypeople. St. Theresa stresses the separation from worldly things, and practicing Godly love and humility. It feels like a conversation with an old friend, charming in how she gets off-topic so often; there are many places where she says “I don’t remember what I was writing about” and starts something new, which is relatable.
Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist – Brant Pitre
Pitre is great at tying the Old and New Testaments together. This explains Jewish history first before tackling what the Eucharist means, wonderfully tying the two together and shedding the real meaning on its institution. Another favorite read of 2021.
Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska
Seeing that I was Confirmed in Divine Mercy Sunday, my reading of this was long overdue. I was just in awe of it the entire time – how she spoke with Jesus; how He guided her through her whole suffering life. Hers is a faith I can only aspire to.
The Great Good Thing – Andrew Klavan
Perhaps an odd addition to the list, but Klavan has a conversion story like no one else’s. He was raised Jewish and dabbled in atheism before (perhaps reluctantly) coming to Jesus, hitting every bump and turn along the way.
