Daily Devotions for Grandmothers

Frances Smit reviews Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle’s new devotional book for grandparents. 

Daily Devotions for Grandmothers

By Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

Published by Pauline Books & Media

When my older sister had a baby, my dad said, “Happiness is being a grandparent.” Because he often appeared to dislike parenthood, my dad’s turnaround let me know what he said is true. I’m fascinated with idea of being a grandparent and hope to become one soon. Plus, I have many grandmother friends, so I was attracted to take a look at this book. 

In Daily Devotions for Grandmothers, author Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle breaks the year-long book into months and days. Each month has a theme: January, the Holy Name of Jesus; February, The Holy Family; March, Saint Joseph; April, the Holy Spirit; May, the Blessed Mother; June, Sacred Heart; and so on through the rest of the year.  

Each day’s reflection has five elements. I picked out a single day to share examples each of the daily elements:   

An inspiring quote  

A selection from Scripture or Catholic teaching which corresponds with the theme of the month. 

From the Eucharist comes strength to live the Christian life and to share that life with others. (Saint John Paul II)   

Steep 

A short story, teaching, or anecdote to ponder.   

One day, a priest came into what he thought was an empty church. He genuflected reverently at the tabernacle before retrieving the Blesses Sacrament. Though he didn’t know it, someone was hiding and watching him from the confessional. This someone, who wasn’t a Catholic, knocked on the rectory door the next day and wanted to know how to possess the same reverence for the Eucharist that Father had shown the day before. He wanted to become Catholic. 

Act  

A suggestion for putting the day’s reflection into action.  

Do something to show your love for God today. You never know who’s watching!  

Pray  

An original prayer for the day.  

Dear Jesus, help me to bring my grandchildren close to you.  

Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be  

Savor 

A takeaway for the day.  

My example can change a life!  

My Favorite Parts of This Book 

My favorite parts of the book are the Quote and Steep sections because of the teachings they contain. The quote sources are varied, including Scripture, Catholic teaching, the Catechism, the saints, papal encyclicals, priests (both living and deceased), the promises of the Rosary, and more.  

The Steep sections also contain many teachings and tidbits. For example, on October 8, the author explains the history and background of Our Lady of Good Remedy. Another day, she explains what a signal grace is. This section also includes the author’s personal stories or introduces us to little-known saints and future saints, such those whose title is Blessed.  

As expected, Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle encourages grandmothers to pray for their families, become examples, and teach family members about the Rosary and other treasures of the Church. I imagine most grandmothers who would pick up this book are already doing the things she recommends! They’re in good company with those who know the happiness of being a grandparent.  

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Frances Smit
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