I’ve had a lot of Catholic books come and go on my shelves over the years. Here are five books that I’ve found essential for my Catholic bookshelf. These are the books I turn to again and again and always find helpful.
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1. The Bible
Kind of a no-brainer. However, with so many to choose from, it can be frustrating and confusing to pick one, especially considering some have a substantial price tag.
I’ve had, and still have, a variety of Bibles. However, the one I turn to most frequently is the Douay-Rheims translation. It is one of the earlier vulgate translations and can be a little tricky to read for the modern reader. It still resonates with me though.
A great version of this version can be found at Baronius Press.
2. Divine Intimacy
A classic book on Carmelite spirituality, Divine Intimacy, follows the old liturgical calendar offering insights into the theme of each day’s readings. Each section has a Colloquoy to help start the conversation with God.
I like that it follows the liturgical seasons which helps keep me focused throughout the year. I haven’t had the book long but it has fostered several insights already so far.
Baronius Press also offers this book.
3. Catechism of the Catholic Church
This, in my opinion, is an indispensable reference that all Catholics should have on hand.
It contains answers to most every question and summarizes doctrine nicely.
Pope Benedict XVI stated:
[The Catechism of the Catholic Church] clearly show[s] that the problem of what we must do as human beings, of how we should live our lives so that we and the world may become just, is the essential problem of our day, and basically of all ages. After the fall of ideologies, the problem of man—the moral problem—is presented to today’s context in a totally new way: What should we do? How does life become just? What can give us and the whole world a future which is worth living? Since the catechism treats these questions, it is a book which interests many people, far beyond purely theological or ecclesial circles. From: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catechism_of_the_Catholic_Church
There are many versions. Here is the one I prefer because of its compact size:
4. Theology and Sanity
Frank Sheed’s book, Theology and Sanity, is one of several great books he wrote. As a convert, I find his books very helpful for explaining the elements of faith. I highlighted another of his books here.
Theology and Sanity outlines theological principles and teachings in plain, down to earth language that is accessible. Although maybe too basic for someone already with a strong foundation in Catholic teachings, I find it indispensable to have on hand when I have questions or just want a refresher.
5. When the Lion Roars
This last book is a new addition to the shelf. Monsignor Stephen Rossetti’s, When the Lion Roars.
It’s a newer book and I downloaded it on a whim. I couldn’t stop reading it. It’s another book of mine that contains practical spiritual advice. I highlighted this book in more detail in an earlier post.
What I like most about it, is it contains countless gems of spiritual advice that anyone new or not so new to the faith can benefit from. I would recommend it especially for anyone who has just discovered the faith as it can help neophytes avoid common pitfalls.
Summary
Obviously, this is just my opinion and there are a ton of great Catholic books out there that aren’t listed here. I also haven’t included things such as prayer books (The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary!), saint biographies and writings, etc., which are also essential.
I have several other books that I love also that aren’t on this list. I’ve written about them here, here, and here.
Although the above reflects today, I think a healthy bookshelf evolves over time to represent where the reader is at in their life. It is very much a dynamic, living organism, which in my opinion must change to meet the need.
Lord willing, I’ll come across other books that I need when the time is right for them to enter my life. If you have recommendations, I’d love to hear them!