An Introduction to the Devout Life

I recently finished this book written by Saint Francis De Sales. It was a wonderful book for any Catholic to read. It brought me closer to my faith and gave wonderful instruction on how to become truly devout.

It is easy to read, being laid out in short chapters.

Addressed almost as a personal letter to Philothea, the "lover of God" -- which genuinely represents the reader -- the book covers:

• our first desire to lead a devout life to our full resolution to do so
• how we should approach God in prayer and the Sacraments
• the practice of 16 important virtues
• remedies against ordinary temptations
• becoming confirmed in our practice of devotion.

I was so moved by it that I have every intention on re-reading it in about a year or so. I found his advise and lessons very helpful in my everyday life.

Saint Francis De Sales is one of my favorite Saints. I find him to be genuine and very down to earth. I love reading books by Saints. I usually curl up with a refreshment, light a candle and read......I sometimes read out loud to myself. It makes me feel like good ol' Saint Francis De Sales is right there with me. : )

Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

I have just completed reading this book. This is the first book that I have read by C.S. Lewis and I AM HOOKED! This book a piece of work......C.S. Lewis is witty, entertaining and opens the readers mind to new possibilities. For anyone who hasn't already read this book I would certainly suggest it.

C.S. Lewis describes and takes the readers along to discover Christianity by mere reason. I caught myself thinking "by God he is right" numerous times throughout the book. His ideas are so on point.

Butler's Lives of the Saints

I have just completed reading this wonderful and inspiring book. The version that I read is the "Concise, Modernized Edition" by Bernard Bangley (2005). It was easy to read and is broken down into days so that you may read about one saint's life each day. I couldn't wait to read more so I made it through within about two months.

It is important to have role models and who better than the saints that came before us? I would suggest that everyone read this book for inspiration. I initially picked up this book on my search for my saint that I will be taking the name of at my baptism. I related the very most to St. Margaret of Cortona and have chosen her as my baptismal saint.