As part of an occasional series, HNP Today suggests publications that are relevant to friars and their partners-in-ministry. These two books, both recommended in newsletters of American OFM provinces, are focused on the future.
Peace and Good: Through the Year with Francis of Assisi (Franciscan Media, 2014) by Fr. Patrick McCloskey, OFM, is recommended by Toni Cashnelli, communications director of St. John the Baptist Province. In the Oct. 23 issue of SJB News Notes, she writes “Pat sets up a year of little lessons that help us examine our inner lives. For each day, there is a quote about the life or teachings of Francis, a reflection and a sentence or two that subtly challenges us to think or act.” Her review, titled “A Labor of Love … and It Shows,” contains background about the development and design of the book. Fr. Patrick is the Franciscan editor of St. Anthony Messenger magazine and writes the Ask a Franciscan and Dear Reader columns.
The Gift of Years: Growing Older Gracefully (2008, Bluebridge Publishers) by Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB, is recommended by Fr. Myles Sheehan, SJ, who directed the interprovincial retreat for seasoned friars last fall. The book includes more than 40 brief meditations that encourage the elderly to develop their spirituality, their values, and their attitudes, according to a review by Fr. Maury Smith, OFM. The review was published in the Dec. 16 issue of Around the Province, Sacred Heart’s weekly newsletter. The book “demonstrates that the elderly years are the best years of one’s life if the senior makes the best choices in how they live their lives,” said Fr. Maury. He added, “Another theme is how we are co-creators in making the world a better place.” Several videos of Sr. Joan, a Benedictine nun from Erie, Pa., speaking about the book are available on YouTube.
The HNP Communications Office welcomes emails from readers who would like to suggest a book or periodical. Themes that are relevant to friars and partners-in-ministry — in addition to spirituality and news of the Catholic Church — include topics related to the Province’s committees and directorates: vocations, justice and peace, wellness, African-American and Hispanic ministries, and young adults. The last “Recommended Reading” was published Nov. 30.
— Compiled by Jocelyn Thomas