Books and Resources for Lent

Books and Other Resources for Lent Home Site Map Lent Confession

God gives us so many chances to draw closer to Him each day. Often we are too busy to pay attention and respond. In its wisdom, Holy Mother Church provides liturgical seasons for us all, to focus our attention on the cycle of our lives and how they can best conform to the Life of Christ. We encourage you to "turn off the noise" of the world. Make time for reading. Especially the Bible. Listen to Sacred Music. Place art in your home that will remind you of our Lord's Passion.	Here are some resources that we hope you will find useful. Your purchases at our partner sites are urgently needed to help fund a young man's studies for the Priesthood. Thank you in advance. Discount Codes: Enter newemail to get 15% off Enter Card38 to receive a $10 gift certificate on purchases over $50. Please also look through the selections on our Catholic Entertainment page. We think you'll find the content to be important.	Quick Links on This Page w Our Top Picks for Lenten Reading w Praying to Jesus Through Mary w Way of the Cross w Confession w Way of the Cross for Children and Additional Children's Resources w Lenten Wisdom from Fulton Sheen, Thomas Merton, St Francis, St Pio w Daily Readings for Lent w Seven Last Words w Visual Reminders w Lent and Eastertide Music Coming Soon: Passion Play Costumes
Revised for Lent 2009 Meatless Meals for Lent - A Catholic Home and Garden Publication Lenten Fasting and Abstinence Inspiration for Holy Scripture, Popes, Saints Over 90 International Recipes Two Convenient Versions: Print It Yourself or Printed Book Sent to You The older eBook version is still free but missing a lot of new information Download it here - and enter the password repent in lowercase letters.
Catholic Home and Garden Top Choices for Lenten Reading Devotional reading is an important aspect of Lenten discipline. The best choice, of course, is Holy Scripture. In order to deepen our relationship with the Suffering Christ, a guide is often useful. The eight books highlighted here are some that I've found to be especially helpful. Available from our partner company.	The School of Jesus Crucified By Fr. Ignatius of the Side of Jesus. A famous book based on the theme of founding one's whole spiritual life on the lessons we learn from the Passion and Death of Jesus. Meditations for 31 days, examples from lives of Saints, and much more.	The Passion of Jesus and Its Hidden Meaning by Fr. James Groenings, S.J. One of the best meditations on the Passion and death of Jesus, taken entirely from the Bible. Lessons from each episode of the Passion. Eye opening and life changing
Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska - Divine Mercy in My Soul. The spiritual writings of the Polish nun who was instructed to bring the devotion to Divine Mercy to the world. Read it over Lent in preparation for Divine Mercy Sunday.	Fasting A Positive Approach A small book, only $1, but one that is valuable. Basic insights on the practice of fasting and addresses such issues as: the difference between a religious and non-religious fast, the spiritual benefits of fasting, and changes in Church regulations.	Essential Lenten Handbook From the Redemptorist Fathers. Includes a history of Lent, Traditional hymns, the penitential nature of Lent, confession, Stations of the Cross, Rule of Life for Lent, prayers to Christ and Mary, Daily meditations cycles ABC
The Week of Salvation History and Traditions of Holy Week. Comprehensive details of scriptural, liturgical, and devotional dimensions of Holy Week. Historical origins and development of the liturgical ceremonies and devotional practices throughout the world.	What Jesus Saw From the Cross Share Christ's passion as if you were there- jostled by the crowds, share the Last Supper with the disciples, stare into the faces of His accusers, and look down at the milling crowd as He dies on the Cross. Did He see you?	The Spear A panoramic novel of the last days of Christ, from the palaces of imperial Rome to the strife-torn hills of Judea. The full story of the world’s most dramatic execution, as it affected one of its least-known participants – the man who hurled his spear into Christ on the Cross. For teens to adults.
Walking with Mary Mother of God
To Jesus Through Mary As we contemplate the words of Stabat Mater, we understand that the sure way to find the joys and sorrows of life in Christ is to go to Jesus through Mary Here is a small collection of devotional books that will bring you closer to Jesus through the eyes of His Mother Mary.	Lent and Easter with Mary Leads the reader to an intimate encounter with the Blessed Mother. Includes the origins of Marian prayers and hymns, great miracles and apparitions, and lives of saints devoted to Mary. Brief prayer or biblical text at end of each	Mary's Way of the Cross: Walking with the Mother of Jesus A profoundly powerful devotional insight into Mary's unwavering in faith and love. Pray the Stations of the Cross alongside Mary, our Mother. Walk intimately with Christ as Mary did.
Seven Words of Jesus and Mary Lessons on Cana and Calvary Bishop Fulton Sheen. It is not coincidental that Jesus spoke only seven times on Calvary, and that His mother is recorded as speaking only seven times in the Gospels. "Now that the Sun was out, there was no longer need of the moon to shine. Now that the Word has spoken, there was no longer need of words."	Our Lady of Holy Saturday - Awaiting the Resurrection with Mary and the Disciples by Cardinal Carlo Martini. In that period of confusion and sadness after Our Lord's death on the Cross and the joy of the resurrection, Mary waited in faith and hope	The Women of the Passion Beginning with Mary Mother of God and Mary Magdalene these reflections unravel the stories of women who accompanied Jesus during his last days and were there as he endured His agony and death on the Cross
Via Crucis + The Way of the Cross + Stations of the Cross
The Way of the Cross or Stations of the Cross is one of the best loved devotions for the Lenten Season. There are many versions for public or private use. An important indulgence is also attached to this pious practice, originally created for those who walked the Way in the Holy Land. The modern version does require the presence of images of the fourteen stations. If you cannot make the Stations in Church, use a Stations Rosary or some of the images we've provided. Even smaller holy cards will do. Read more here	Benedict XVI Way of the Cross Pray through the mystery of salvation with Pope Benedict XVI written for this devotion held on Good Friday at Rome’s Coliseum	John Paul II's Biblical Way of the Cross In 1991, Pope John Paul II introduced a new Bible-based interpretation of the Stations of the Cross that invite readers to walk in solidarity with Jesus on his agonizing way of the cross -- from the Garden of Gethsemane to his death and burial
Stations of the Cross Rosary Perfect to pray at home, during a commute to work during Lent or any Friday or Wednesday	Stations of the Cross Shrine Set Perfect for indoor or outdoor use. 14 pieces made of cedar and stained in walnut. Available in three sizes	Florentine Stations of the Cross Plaque 8" x 10"
My Wounded Hands prays the Way of the Cross, meditating on Christ’s hands in these final moments of an unrelenting ministry of healing and blessing.	The Way of the Cross - Sign of Contradiction - John Paul II Walking the Way of the Cross alongside Pope John Paul II, as he meditates upon the great mystery of our redemption, we experience the profound reality that beyond the darkness of every Calvary rests the radiant dawn of Easter joy and hope for all time	The Pilgrimage Way of the Cross Beginning with the First Station of Christ's Baptism in the Jordan, along the narrow streets of Jerusalem's Via Dolorosa, through His Crucifixion on Calvary, a day-by-day pilgrimage experience of the sites of the Passion of Christ
The Way of The Cross Saint Alphonsus Liguori's method is the most popular and well loved traditional Way of the Cross	The Way of the Cross Biblical and liturgical text with traditional woodcut illustrations	Stations of the Cross Stations of Light by Ann Ball and Bro. Placid The traditional stations plus the Via Lucis that follows Christ through Pentecost
The Way of the Cross Opus Dei - St Josemaria Escriva A miniature book to take with you everywhere	The Way of the Cross DVD Passionist Priest Victor Hoagland narrates through the Holy Land, explains the history of the stations, visits Ground Zero and also provides an introduction for children	The Way of the Cross for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Completely helpless, the Holy Souls can do nothing. They are your friends and relatives, trapped in Purgatory. You have the power to release them by praying The Way of the Cross for the Holy Souls in Purgatory.
Way of the Cross for Families This little booklet will help your family to grow in faith and love by praying the Stations of the Cross together	Stations of the Cross for the Elderly Beautiful illustrations, and extra large type. A message that brings hope and comfort	Stations of the Cross for the Sick Suffering is part of human life. Whether you’re ill or are yourself caring for someone who suffers, you can feel terribly alone. But Jesus is always there with you.
Confession - The Sacrament of Reconciliation - See All Related Books on our Confession Page
Frequent Confession "To win the battles of the soul, the best strategy often is to bide one's time and apply the suitable remedy with patience and perseverance." So wrote Blessed Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei who tirelessly urged the practice of frequent confession for spiritual advancement. The book is divided into two parts. The first shows the purpose and practice of confession from the aspect of confessor penitent. The second examines the many area where confession applies.	Why We Need Confession In recent decades, the sacrament of confession has withstood attacks against its validity and usefulness and is emerging in our own time as an even more important aid to Christian living. Shaw gives the reasons why, and provides concise rational explanations for what many have realized through their own experience: there is no substitute for divine forgiveness. Excellent for those who want to go deeper in their appreciation for this sacrament or for those trying to help their friends understand the need for confession	How to Profit from Your Faults Practical guidance for turning imperfections to one's advantage. Joseph Tissot wrote this book to help readers gain a proper sense of themselves and an accurate perspective on their own failings. Drawing on the wisdom of St. Francis de Sales and other great saints, as well as a rich understanding and broad experience of human nature, Tissot offers practical guidance for the interior struggle
Way of the Cross for Children and Other Children's Resources
Children's Way of the Cross Specially written to help children enter into the mystery of Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection through the retelling of the Passion story. Ages 7-11	The Way of the Cross for Teens Walking with Jesus to Calvary Vivid narratives of Jesus' dramatic walk to Calvary call us to a deeper understanding of Jesus' great love for us. Guided meditations and reflection plus contemporary photos young people can relate to.	Stations of the Cross in My Pocket for Children aged 6-8
The Way of the Cross for Children An international best seller. Its simple reflections are written in contemporary language, yet with much reverence and will appeal to young people	I Pray the Stations of the Cross Sensitive illustrations and child-friendly language introduce the Stations of the Cross as a means for children to deepen their love for Jesus and all God's people	Stations of the Cross Poster Book for Children Great for families, classrooms
Stations of the Cross Coloring Book by Father Lovasik. A creative way for children to learn about the sufferings of Jesus as He approached His death.	Stations of the Cross Posters for Children 16 full-color posters Dimension: 10 1/2" x 16". Features a simple introduction to the Stations of the Cross, traditional 14 Stations and the Resurrection, reproducible prayers for group participation	Stations of the Cross Coloring Book on CD Rom Color all of the Stations of the Cross. Simple and entertaining for children although adults might enjoy creating some works of art also
Giving Up Stealing for Lent 56 years of marriage and 11 children…The Maddens of Baltimore will surprise you, comfort you, make you laugh until you cry, and make you cry until you laugh again! From games of “pitch” to petty thievery, from over zealous confessions to exacerbating obedience, there is truly never a dull moment.	Lent is for Children is a handy booklet which helps young Catholics understand and truly participate in the Lenten season. Some of the basic topics covered in this Lent book for children are: prayer, fasting, sacrifice, reconciliation and Holy Week events.	Lent and Easter in the Domestic Church An illustrated book full of activities for children and families to help better understand and celebrate Lent and Easter. This large, spiral-bound volume helps families share the traditions of the liturgical time of year
The Lent - Easter Book Living and Celebrating Our Catholic Customs. Projects and prayers to help families create meaningful traditions	Celebrating Lent helps children understand this time of preparation for Jesus’ Resurrection. Full-color illustrations. Only $1.50	Lent Begins at Home Ideas and activities to help Catholic families share the true meaning of Lent and rejoice in the Easter season.
Lenten Wisdom from Fulton Sheen, St Pio of Pietrelcina, Thomas Merton, St Francis of Assisi and Others
The Fulton Sheen Lenten Book Set Only $27 Includes Seven Words of Jesus and Mary - Cana and Calvary, The Cross and the Beatitudes, Lent and Easter Wisdom, Meditations and Prayers	Lent and Easter Wisdom from Bishop Fulton Sheen 50 passages and accompanying mini-prayers offer readers a practical spiritual program as a retreat from the cares and concerns of a secular world view	Lenten Meditations with Fulton J. Sheen Each quote is paired with a complementary Scripture verse focusing on the themes of the season--sacrifice, repentance, suffering, prayer, humility, peace--and more. See Also Good Friday with Fulton Sheen DVD
First Fruits of Prayer - Forty Day Journey Through the Canon of Saint Andrew A guided retreat ideal for the Lenten season	Lenten Meditations with Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Patience, Humility, Hope and Joy are the fruits of spending a few moments each day with Saint Pio will help prepare the heart to receive the Savior this Lenten season. Only $1.95	The Agony of Jesus by Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Remarkable meditations on the Agony of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane by Bl. Padre Pio, the stigmatist priest. One of his few writings. Many pictures of Padre Pio.
Lent and Easter Wisdom from Thomas Merton Let the words of Trappist monk Thomas Merton lead you through the holy season of Lent and into Easter	Lent and Easter Wisdom from Henri J.M. Nouwen Father Nouwen provides Scriptural meditations and suggested activities for spiritual growth and conversion	Lent and Easter Wisdom from Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi Living nearly 800 years ago, St Francis and St Clare serve as excellent guides for the modern Lenten journey. They abandoned their comfortable lifestyles to embrace poverty, humility, and penance to follow Christ.

Daily Readings - Lent is a time to turn away from worldliness and lift our eyes to God. That requires discipline. Making a commitment to daily readings during the Lenten season is one way to begin. Here are several daily reading collections that you might like.




Picking Ourselves Up When We Fall Lent is the Catholic version of New Year's Day when it comes to making resolutions. We resolve to give up chocolate or cigarettes or to assist at daily Mass in the spirit of penance and for the love of God. Often we fail to keep those resolutions. This is a good time to study the Seven Last Words


Visual Reminders of Lent As humans, we are tactile and often need visual reminders to help us focus on Lenten mortification or to overcome temptations. We look to images and objects that help remind us of Christ's Passion. First and foremost is the Cross, of course.


Passiontide and Eastertide Music Although I've spend most of my adult life (until recently) as a Church musician, I find that I prefer silence when meditating, reading Scripture, or praying alone. Others, including my husband, find that seasonal Sacred Music is a help. Here are a few of our favorites.




Top Home Site Map Lent Confession

Books and Other Resources for Lent

The School of Jesus Crucified

By Fr. Ignatius of the Side of Jesus. A famous book based on the theme of founding one's whole spiritual life on the lessons we learn from the Passion and Death of Jesus. Meditations for 31 days, examples from lives of Saints, and much more.

Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska - Divine Mercy in My Soul. The spiritual writings of the Polish nun who was instructed to bring the devotion to Divine Mercy to the world. Read it over Lent in preparation for Divine Mercy Sunday.