Dear Friends,
This past week has been particularly slow. And that’s not a bad thing. Normally, summers are a bit slower anyway, with so many away for the season or on vacation. The recent heavy rains have given us a moment to refresh oneself, to contemplate, to reflect, and to pray. These are also excellent opportunities for reflective reading – reading books that challenge how you relate to yourself, your neighbor, and God. So today, I’d like to make some suggestions for us:
I have mentioned this book a number of times: The Gift of Years by Joan Chittister. The Men’s Book Group found it incredibly valuable for reflecting on the gift of aging. I loved it too and even had my mom read it!
Our Deacon Ken has recently recommended How to Know a Person by David Brooks. Considering the epidemic of loneliness in our culture, I think this could be a valuable book for us all.
And today, after hearing some podcasts by my friend, Brian McLaren, I have just ordered his recent book: Life after Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart. While I have only listened to excerpts of his book, I look forward to sharing insights with you soon.
What is a book that you have read lately that has shaped your spirituality? Please let me know!
Peace and grace,
Fr. Jonathan