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What I'm reading

I am presently reading these books.

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church by the Catholic Church

The Compendium is basically a catechism of social doctrine. Part One begins by placing Catholic social teaching in the context of the two principal Christian doctrines, the Trinity and the Incarnation. Next, it explains the necessity of social doctrine for the Church's mission. Finally, Part One presents the foundational principles of Catholic social doctrine. Part Two treats specific issues, including family, work, economics, politics, the environment, and peace. Part Three, entitled "Social Doctrine and Ecclesial Action," concludes the Compendium by turning from theory to practice.

Joan of Arc: By Herself and Her Witnesses by Regine Pernoud

I consider St. Joan of Arc one of my patron saints. Pernoud tells the story of this remarkable young Frenchwoman through statements by Joan and others recorded at her trials. Pernoud is the founder of the Centre Jeanne d'Arc in Orleans, France.

Recommended Reading

Catholicism

Fundamentals of Catholic Dogma by Ludwig Ott

The cover says it well: 'A one-volume encyclopedia of the doctrines of the Catholic Church, showing their sources in Scripture and Tradition and their definitions by popes and councils.' This reference work organizes Catholic doctrine by subject matter. For each doctrine, it presents the official definition, the grade of certainty, a brief explanation, proofs, and sometimes answers to common errors.

Economics

Economics in One Lesson by Henry Hazlitt

The first chapter in this book explains a basic economic principle. Subsequent chapters apply this principle to a wide variety of issues, including taxes, tariffs, rent control, and minimum wage. Hazlitt strongly argues in favor of a free market by demonstrating the disasters usually produced by government intervention. The 50th Anniversary Edition, available from Amazon.com above, is introduced by Steve Forbes.

History

How the Reformation Happened by Hilaire Belloc

A short but informative read about the Protestant Reformation, its causes, and its effects.

Never Give In by Winston S. Churchill

This volume collects the best speeches of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. The commentary provides insight into the ups and downs of Churchill's life. The editor is Churchill's grandson.

The Compact History of the Catholic Church by Alan Schreck

Schreck's little book (189 pages) is perfect for the reader interested in a brief survey of the history of the Catholic Church.

The History of the Church by Eusebius

Eusebius Pamphili was the bishop of Caesarea in Palestine. He is considered the Father of Church History. This book, finished in the early fourth century, narrates the history of the Church from Christ to Constantine.

Politics

Going Public by Michael Gecan

I read this book for my apostolate with Action in Montgomery (AIM), a group of politically active congregations in Montgomery County, Maryland. Gecan is an organizer with Industrial Areas Foundation, AIM's parent organization.

Religion

Catholic Customs by Regis J. Flaherty

This book's subtitle is apt: "A Fresh Look at Traditional Practices." But "fresh" does not mean newfangled here; it means renewed. In 189 pages, Flaherty faithfully presents life in the Roman Catholic Church, especially manifested in her customs. Among other topics, he explains the liturgical calendar, sacramentals, and devotions. Flaherty's treatment follows the authentic development initiated by the Second Vatican Council. This is not a book of theology, but it answers questions of Catholic practice. It will make an excellent gift to converts, but it will also benefit poorly catechized Catholics.

How Not to Share Your Faith by Mark Brumley

A vital read for amateur Catholic apologists. Cardinal Avery Dulles wrote the preface and Archbishop Charles Chaput of Denver wrote the foreword.

The Salvation Controversy by James Akin

Together with authority, salvation is at the center of the divide between Catholic and Protestant belief. Because Protestants typically reduce Christianity to a doctrine of salvation, it is important that Catholics learn Protestant ideas of salvation as well as the Church's teaching (the latter is misunderstood even by Catholics). Akin's book is a helpful tool for this task. Of course, readers hoping for quick answers or solutions will be disappointed.

Understanding the Mass by Maynard Kolodziej

Fr. Kolodziej explains the Mass in the context of salvation history by comparing worship under the old and new covenants. But this is not a technical theological treatise. Not only the length but the clear, concise text recommends this booklet to Catholics of all levels. The opening words set the tone: "From all eternity God willed to create us and to share with us his own love and divine life." You really will understand the Mass after reading this booklet.

Where We Got the Bible by Henry G. Graham

Graham (1874-1959) tells the truth about the Catholic Church's relationship with the Bible. The author was a Scotch Presbyterian minister turned Roman Catholic bishop. This volume includes his conversion story, "From the Kirk to the Catholic Church."