Three books have been suggested as resources that may interest newsletter readers. Each discusses its topic in an insightful and inspiring way.
HNP Today occasionally provides recommendations of publications that are relevant to friars as well as to their partners-in-ministry. Below are brief descriptions of the books, whose sources are both people and ministries within the Province.
The Good Journey: 150 Years of History at St. Bonaventure Universityresearched by Dr. Edward Eckert, edited by Robert, Ann and Daniel McCarthy (Franciscan Institute Publications, 2011) is recommended by Richard Lee, a 1975 St. Bonaventure graduate who is returning to the university to teach journalism this fall. Lee said the book not only chronicles the history of the school, but also captures the essence of the “Bona spirit” that plays such an important role in the personal, spiritual and professional lives of the Bonaventure community. Based on the research of Edward K. Eckert, with additional content and editing by the husband-wife-son alumni team of Bob McCarthy (1976), Ann Flynn McCarthy (1974), and Dan McCarthy (2010), The Good Journey paints a fascinating picture of the Franciscan legacy and the individuals whose dedication and commitment have guided the university for a century and half.
Hope Against Darkness: The Transforming Vision of Saint Francis in an Age of Anxiety by Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, with John Bookser Feister (St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2001) is recommended by Lisa Biedenbach ofSt. Anthony Messenger Press in Cincinnati, Ohio. In a popular blog post, Biedenbach described a letter sent to her by a “lifer” in a California prison requesting a free copy of the book, and their correspondence that followed. Drawing upon the book’s theme, Biedenbach wrote: “We are all locked behind bars of some sort and live in our own prisons. Reaching out to others with love and seeking forgiveness leads us to Jesus.”
Life Without Limits: Inspiration For a Ridiculously Good Life by Nick Vujicic (Doubleday Religion, 2010) is the June selection for the book discussion group at the Church of St. Mary on Broadway in Providence, R.I. Vujicic is an internationally-renowned public speaker who was born without arms or legs. On its Facebook page, the group described their choice as “an inspiring book by an extraordinary man.”
The HNP Communications Office welcomes emails from readers who would like to suggest a book or periodical. The staff requests that a short description of the material be provided.
Themes of these recommendations are — in addition to spirituality and news of the Catholic Church — topics affiliated with Holy Name Province committees and directorates: evangelization, justice and peace, African-American and Hispanic ministries, communications and wellness.
— Compiled by Vicky Wolak