New Mary Books: Brace Yourself for Awesome!

Being a book junkie and a Mary geek has its benefits, especially when there's a stack of new releases like this in my house!

Quiet Moments: A Month with Mary

(Twenty-Third Publications, 2013)

This is a booklet of the "Quiet Moments" from Catholic Digest, all centered around Mary. I'm using it for November. Each day has a quote from saints and Scripture. That's it: one Marian quote each day. The booklet is the perfect size to tuck into my purse or even my jacket pocket. My plan is to read these quotes throughout the day and let them guide me closer to Mary.

Celebrating Mary: A Collection of Praises and Prayers

(Word Among Us Press, 2013)

This is a full book (141 pages), but it's booklet-sized, so it will tuck into your winter coat pocket or your purse. And that's how I plan to use it. The collection includes both ancient and contemporary sources and each of the 100 "praises and prayers" within it highlights an aspect of the Blessed Mother that deserves reflection and gratitude. I'm looking forward to delving in!

Totus Tuus: A Consecration to Jesus through Mary with Blessed John Paul II

By Fr. Brian McMaster (Our Sunday Visitor, 2013)

Let's call it what it is: I'm a Marian consecration junkie. I have done the St. Louis de Montfort consecration to Jesus through Mary a few times, and I've used Fr. Gaitley's 33 Days to Morning Glory a couple of times. This book, new on the scene, combines so many of my favorite things. A bit from the back cover:

This fresh look at Marian consecration takes the themes and structures of Saint Louis de Montfort's preparation for total consecration and incorporates the teachings and insights of Blessed John Paul II, including prayer, contemplation, and resolutions, that will open your heart to the life of the Holy Trinity. Through these thirty-three days of spiritual exercises you will discover how you can grow closer to Jesus through the heart of Mary, while becoming the very best version of yourself in a life of consecration.

I did, in fact, start this earlier this week so that I can finish it by the December 8 Feast of the Immaculate Conception. I had to get cracking and start it (pause while I check in the front cover)...earlier this week. In fact, that struck me as more than just a little perfect. Hmm.

The Miraculous Medal: Stories, Prayers, and Devotions

By Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle (Servant Books, 2013)

I've been on the receiving end of Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle's miraculous medals, and I am so looking forward to reading what's sure to be a gentle and insightful take on this devotion.

Here's the synopsis straight from the back cover:

Over twenty years ago, Mother Teresa gave Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle a blessed Miraculous Medal, and she has never taken it off. To date, Donna-Marie has given away thousands of Miraculous Medals. But what is the significance of this medal? Why is it considered miraculous? Where did it come from, and is it still relevant for us today?

The Miraculous Medal tells the origin and history of this beloved sacramental. You'll learn how it got its name and the story of St. Catherine, who introduced it to the world. You'll discover personal stories of those who have experienced the medal's miraculous power—how it transformed one couple's home into an oasis of peace, helped heal a woman's breast cancer, and even calmed a crazed intruder. And you'll learn the prayers and practices that can help you share in its graces

Sister Wendy on the Art of Mary

By Sister Wendy Beckett (Franciscan Media, 2013)

I'm intrigued by art, tis true. That said, I don't do much to (a) foster that interest or (b) learn more about art. So this book combines something latent within me with Mama Mary.

And Sister Wendy? I could just hug her. That smile of hers is just infectious and inspiring. She looks so normal to me.

Here's what the back cover has to say:

Join renowned art historian and spiritual guide Sister Wendy Beckett as she reflects on fourteen works of art that illustrate scenes from the life of Mary, mother of Jesus. Bold and passionate, Sister Wendy inspires us with her insights into works both well and lesser known, as she seamlessly draws out the intricacies of artistic techniques and meaning. Her gifts of interpretation, profound religiosity, and love of painting make this a timeless treasure for all who appreciate the experiential wisdom and depth of good art.

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