Two books have been recently suggested that may interest newsletter readers. One is written by a St. Bonaventure University associate professor and the other recommended by an SBU alumnus.
Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps by Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, (St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) is recommended by Lisa Biedenbach, a graduate of St. Bonaventure University. Biedenbach, editorial director of books at St. Anthony Messenger Press, said the book shows how the Gospel principles in 12-Step programs can free people from dependence on alcohol, drugs, and to sin. Rohr contends that each person is addicted in some way — many to one’s way of thinking. “We cannot stop the drowning waters of our addictive culture from rising, but we must at least see our reality for what it is, seek to properly detach from it, and build ‘a coral castle and learn to breathe under water.’ The New Testament called it salvation or enlightenment, the 12-Step program called it recovery.” Each chapter explores one of the 12 Steps. A study guide, which concludes the book, is also available online in an expanded version suitable for group use. The book can be purchased from St. Anthony Press and through Amazon.
Chancellorsville: Crossroads of Fire by Chris Mackowski (Thompson Publications, 2011) is about the Civil War battle of Chancellorsville, Va. Mackowski, an associate professor of journalism and mass communication at SBU, recounts the events of the May 1863 battle, frequently cited as Gen. Robert E. Lee’s greatest victory because the South overcame the odds. The author focuses primarily on the battlefield. “There’s a lot that has been written about the battle over the years, but not much has been written about the battle field,” Mackowski said in a St. Bonaventure news release. “It was really a treat to be able to take readers behind the scenes and recount the history of the battlefield.” Chancellorsville: Crossroads of Fire is Mackowski’s third book in a series commissioned by the National Park Service. Previous books include The Last Days of Stonewall Jackson and The Dark, Close Wood: The Wilderness, Ellwood, and the Battle that Redefined Both. Copies of Mackowski’s books are available at the St. Bonaventure University bookstore and through Amazon.
The HNP Communications Office welcomes emails from readers who would like to suggest a book or periodical. It requests that a short description of the material be provided.
Themes that are relevant to friars and partners-in-ministry — in addition to spirituality and news of the Catholic Church — include topics affiliated with Holy Name Province committees and directorates: evangelization, vocations, justice and peace, young adults, African-American and Hispanic ministries, communication and wellness.
— Compiled by Wendy Healy