Amanda Lauer reviews Catholic Mom contributor Karen Ullo's historical novel, the story of a woman whose faith saw her through times of grave misfortune.
In this post, I will briefly review a guide to confession, why we go, what constitutes a mortal/venial sin, and how to make a good confession!
This year for Advent, why not try something different? In my Advent review of "25 Pockets of Prayer", you can find how the eBook helped me...
Betsy Kerekes reviews a novel for middle-grade readers by Catholic Mom author Lorelei Savaryn.
This Lent help your toddler to see their sacrifices united to Christ's suffering with a Lent Sacrifice Crown.
Laura Range reviews a new Catholic magazine that teaches kids about the faith in fun and engaging ways.
Gilda Rose Kalathil reviews a new biography of Saint Zélie Martin, by Catholic Mom contributor Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur.
There are a lot of amazing Catholic homeschool curricula to choose from! Read about my top 8 to help you decide which one is right for you!
Here are some Friday Seven Quick Takes for you . . . on a Saturday. 1. I’m at Blessed is She today, reflecting on Matthew 6:25-34. You know the one . . . Do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you […]
If you haven't noticed from reading my blog, I am a bookworm. A certified book addict who is constantly on the lookout for new information to devour. I have over 800 books loaded in my Kindle (99.9% were freebies!) and I have a LONG list of books in my "to read" bookbag on the local library's website yet I am still on the prowl for more reading material. In my search for reading material, I have perused online in search of some great books for Catholic moms to read. You know, the ones that we should all have on the bookshelf waiting for us to refer back to at a moments notice? Well, there is no list like this that I can find! I thought that maybe I should compile one from books that I've read and then offer you the opportunity to add to my list in the comments section. Here are the top 6 books that I have read and recommend to other Catholic moms: "A Book of Saints for Catholic Moms" by Lisa Hendey- This book covers the lives of 52 saints and is divided in a way that makes it a great yearly devotional. I started reading this in January and have been using it as my devotional. "Large Family Logistics" by Kim Brenneman is a must-have for moms of large families. If you already have a system in place that works for you, skip this one. If you need help getting organized and building a schedule for cleaning, buy it! "Guiding Your Catholic Preschooler" by Kathy Pierce and Lori Rowland is a must have for young Catholic mothers. I bought this book when I first joined the Church and it is full of useful information. "Catholic Family Fun" by Sarah Reinhard is a new release and one that should be on your Catholic bookshelf! This book has tons of ideas varying from simple to more complicated to quench the thirst for fun in any Catholic family. "Smart Martha's Catholic Guide for Busy Moms" by Tami Kiser is another great homemaking book for Catholic moms. I found this one to have more practical and specific advice than "Large Family Logistics" but they complement each other well. "Style, Sex, and Substance" by Hallie Lord is a girlfriend to girlfriend conversation with ten of your favorite Catholic authors. This book contains tons of practical advice and let's us know that we are not alone. Thanks for stopping by! Alicia
Karen Estep reviews Theology of Style, a newly released book by Lillian Fallon, published by Ascension Press.
Laura Range reviews a new Catholic magazine that teaches kids about the faith in fun and engaging ways.
Rosemary Bogdan reviews a new volume of poetry by longtime Catholic Mom contributor Jake Frost.
All Aboard Bookworms! It's been awhile since I've read a good YA and today I've got the perfect quick, summer read and all the action happens aboard a picturesque cruise ship! I've never had the opportunity to go on a cruise myself but my mom has been on several and says they're a lot of fun. After hearing some of the horror stories that have happened on cruise ships over the years I'm not sure if I'll ever set foot on one, but that's what's so great about books, I can have the experience and enjoy it all I want in my imagination. Welcome to the Blog Tour for Charting the Course by Leslea Wahl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! About the Book Title: Charting the Course Series: Finding Faith series Author: Leslea Wahl Publisher: Vinspire Publishing Release Date: June 27, 2023 Genre: YA Christian Adventure Stuck on a ship with her estranged father for this high school reunion – not a merry way to spend the holidays. But could an onboard mystery and a cute boy be the course correction Liz needs? Set amid the beauty of the Caribbean islands, Charting the Course delves into the topics of fractured families, generational high-school dramas, taking responsibility for your actions, and focusing on faith to keep us anchored. The twists and turns in this high-seas adventure will keep the reader bracing for the next wave of intrigue. PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon My Review It’s a trip that Liz never wanted to take but her holiday Caribbean cruise ended up being everything she didn’t even know she needed. Right off the bat I felt bad for Liz. What teenager wants to spend their holiday break with their dad on a cruise ship and his 30th class reunion for a week? To make matters worse, Liz’s relationship with her dad has been fractured since he walked out on her and her mother, and her parents divorced several years prior. I love a good YA and I really enjoyed Charting the Course. It is all told from Liz’s perspective, which is a refreshing point of view, and really resonated with me, as I went through an eerily similar situation when I was in high school with my own family. The unforgiveness of past hurts is real, and I feel like it goes even deeper when this huge life event happens early in adolescence, and feel like the author handled this masterfully. Seeing the nudges of faith is beautiful and my favorite part of the novel was actually when Liz seems to hit rock bottom, because the only way to go is up, and the only way to move forward is to let go. It was a good reminder for me, and I know this will touch younger audiences as well. Seeing Liz’s growth during such a short amount of time is refreshing, and I loved all of the supporting characters and the unique setting. I’ve never been on a cruise ship myself but it sounds very fun! This novel is part of the Finding Faith series, though it is easily read as a standalone, but it was such a good read that I now want to check out the rest of the series. It is a week of unimagined adventures and a personal journey for Liz as she gains a healthy, new perspective and I am so grateful that I got to witness her adventure. My Rating: ★★★★★ Also Available About the Author Leslea Wahl lives in beautiful Colorado and is the author of several award-winning teen novels. She strives to write stories that encourage teens to grow in their faith through fun adventurous mysteries. Leslea is often inspired by her family, their travels, and real-life adventures. She particularly enjoys including the furry, four-legged members of her family in her novels. Besides writing Leslea also reviews faith-based novels on her website and is a founding member of CatholicTeenBooks.com. Connect with Leslea by visiting lesleawahl.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates. Tour Giveaway (3) winners will each win signed copies of Charting the Course, Into the Spotlight, and Where You Lead by Leslea Wahl! Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 26, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 3, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies. Enter Giveaway Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops! *I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
This year for Advent, why not try something different? In my Advent review of "25 Pockets of Prayer", you can find how the eBook helped me...
A Catholic mom's opinion on some old and newer films: Iron Man 3, I Confess!, Anna Karenina, Looper, Argo, Wreck It Ralph, & Life of Pi.
This fun Catholic Sacraments review game will be a hit with your students! This LOW-PREP activity is a great resource for CCD/Catechism and Christian religious education classes. Download includes: Home-plate; 1st, 2nd, and 3rd base print outs 3-section scoreboard printout Helmets (4 per page and 6 per page options) for students to cut out and color 50 review questions with answers about the Catholic Sacraments (options for singles, doubles, triples, and home runs Check out our other Catholic education activities!
If you are looking to create a more joyful and holy home, this parenting program is for you! The in-depth videos equip parents with practical skills to...
If you are looking to create a more joyful and holy home, this parenting program is for you! The in-depth videos equip parents with practical skills to...
This Christian Catholic crewneck in sand, navy, green, or dark heather is the perfect cozy sweatshirt for any follower of Christ. It features a minimal landscape and sunrise design and the phrase "for Christ. with Christ. like Christ" underneath. Inside the sun is a small cross. This phrase serves as a reminder to dedicate one's life in pursuit of Christ in all things. This crewneck will be an excellent wardrobe staple for a Christian or Catholic mom, dad, teen, or student. Better yet, gift this sweatshirt to a Christian or Catholic teen, godchild, or newly Confirmed or Baptized Christian. Choose a sweatshirt color that suits you! Please note that the design on the Sand option is brown, not black. The design color on the other sweatshirts are off white. Please review my shop policies prior to purchase. Ideal for any situation, a unisex heavy blend crewneck sweatshirt is pure comfort. These garments are made from polyester and cotton. This combination helps designs come out looking fresh and beautiful. The collar is ribbed knit, so it retains its shape even after washing. There are no itchy side seams on these sweaters. .: 50% cotton, 50% polyester .: Medium-heavy fabric (8.0 oz/yd² (271.25 g/m²)) .: Loose fit .: Sewn-in label .: Runs true to size Check out my shop for more faith-inspired items! - Haley
How the Irish lost the civilisation they created: an in-depth review and commentary of Goodbye to Catholic Ireland by Mary Kenny. We consider many things, from sexual abuse to suicide to the former happiness of Ireland ...
So many moms are experiencing serious decision fatigue right now.
A review of The Great Adventure Catholic Bible. A color coded walk through salvation history makes this Bible perfect for Catechists, Catholic school teachers or anyone who wants to understand the history and overarching story in the Bible.
AftI’ve really been hoping to find a recent middle-grade book that I could wholeheartedly recommend. And I am happy to report that I have succeeded!
If you are looking to create a more joyful and holy home, this parenting program is for you! The in-depth videos equip parents with practical skills to...
Cathi Kennedy reviews SoulCore, a prayerful exercise program offering both in-person and virtual workout options.
Merridith Frediani reviews Dr. Edward Sri's encouraging book on prayer, new from Ascension Press.
Cathi Kennedy reviews SoulCore, a prayerful exercise program offering both in-person and virtual workout options.
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"What is a monastery? A Monastery is not so much a place set apart for monks and nuns as it is a place set apart, period."
Taryn DeLong reviews The Habsburg Way: Seven Rules for Turbulent Times.
Product Description A fun and simple way for parents, grandparents, and teachers to integrate character traits into every-day life! It is a creative, intuitive and relational way to integrate character skills training into real life using a simple, precise language. With Virtues, parents and teachers have a with a practical plan to and kids love the process! We Choose Virtues is a creative, intuitive and relational way to integrate character skills training into real life using a simple, precise language. With Virtues, parents and teachers have a with a practical plan to Simply Inspire Character that Lasts…and kids love the process! How to Use this tool: Teach the virtues and antonyms When a problem arises in the home or classroom, send the child or children involved to the poster to find the virtue they should be using. When you see a virtue in action, send a child to the poster to see what virtue they were using. Included: 11x17 Kids Virtue Poster This colorful poster is a complete list of all 12 of our Virtues, their Catchphrases and Antonyms. The Kids of VirtueVille are pictured next to each Virtue for easy reference. Delivery Method: Your poster, and samples will be delivered in a padded envelope and shipped usually within 48 hours. Age Appropriate: This tool was designed for early-childhood through elementary. Reviews... "It is a bright poster that will catch the children's eyes at random times. It serves as visual reminder even when we aren't talking about it." "It is great for various ages. From your youngest child that is just learning gentleness to your tween that needs an obedience reminder, this chart will serve your family through all the ages and stages." "The chart isn't overly aggressive or underly syrupy. It is straightforward and the 12 virtues are valuable for everyone. As Christians, we include Bible verses as we talk about the chart but this would be just as valid of a tool for any family." "It is easy to reference in any conflict discussion. Children arguing? Talk about self-control and kindness. Little Billy not listening to you? Point out "I am obedient". Sally's Christmas list incredibly long? Discuss being content." ~Edie
Catholic ABC's is a fully Catholic preschool curriculum and kindergarten curriculum for homeschoolers, co-ops, and other classrooms. This Catholic preschool curriculum is hands-on all the way!
Monica Portogallo reviews a new alphabet book designed to teach toddlers about God's endless love.
Digital Disciple: Carlo Acutis and the Eucharist is a great story to teach kids about the saints and the Eucharist.
Depicting one of the bible's most dramatic moments, artist Carlo Bronze captures the scene when Jesus laid down his life to his father with the words, "Not what I will, but what you will." full of mystery, this amazingly detailed, two-foot-tall sculpt is cast in quality designer resin with a faux stone finish to capture every detail, from folded hands to pious expression. This Toscano exclusive is a true investment in garden art.
Bring a Catholic escape room into your youth group, or your religion, theology, or CCD classes with these five mini escape rooms. Great for use during Catholic Schools Week, review sessions, classroom filler activities, end-of-term activities, and more! Each escape room can be used independently of the others or consecutively, depending on how much time you have. There are five mini escape rooms within this product. Each escape room includes task cards, Google form and link, teacher instructions, answer key, and student instruction handout. For each escape room, students type answers in a Google form — or submit answers to a teacher — and are awarded a letter. Once students have received all letters, they unscramble the phrase to answer the question and win the game.. This product can be used with or without technology, PDF and a link to video instructions are included. The escape rooms are as follows: ☆ Bible Verse Fill-in-the-Blank: Students must fill in the blank with the appropriate word from the Bible. Hints are provided on each card. 12 total cards with 3 verses per card. ★ The Bible verses come from the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops Bible web site. ☆ Biblical Numbers: Students must answer each question on the task card with a numeral. 8 total cards with 3 questions per card. ☆ Catholic Numbers: Students must answer each question on the task card with a numeral. 8 total cards with 3 questions per card. ☆ Mass Items: Students must identify the name or location of a Catholic mass element (clip art) on each card. 8 total cards with 2 items per card. ☆ Prayers: Students must identify the name of the prayer that includes the given line. Prayers are given numbers for easy reference. 8 total cards with 3 prayer lines per card. The prayers included are Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Act of Contrition, St. Michael the Archangel, Guardian Angel Prayer, Memorare, Anima Christi, Magnificat, and the Nicene Creed. The download also includes a master teacher instruction page for Google and non-Google facilitation and help cards (students can get an answer free if they answer the question on the help card). The products are .pdfs that cannot be edited, although the Googles Forms can be edited. ★ Plan for 20-45 minutes for each mini escape room depending on prior knowledge level of your students. ★ Recommendations: You may consider letting students use Bibles and/or their notes depending upon the level of your classes and what they already know. Related Products ► Catholic Mystery Picture Quizzes ► Advent Escape Room ► Lent Escape Room ► All Saints Escape Room Bundle
Sherry Hayes-Peirce reviews a new book by Gracie Morbitzer that depicts the saints in non-traditional ways.
