Sr Joanna Coleiro, fsp, is a Daughter of St Paul with a long-time interest in the spiritual growth, faith development and religious experience of both adults and children.  Each month, Sr Joanna provides a selection of books available to purchase online from Pauline Books & Media. 

The Way of the Cross

Juliette Levivier

This book is designed to help young children meditate on the Passion of Jesus and experience the beautiful Lenten tradition of the Way of the Cross.  The simple language of the text is connected to relevant scripture passages and accompanied by thoughtful and age-appropriate illustrations, making this a wonderful way for the whole family to prepare for Holy Week.

Available online from Pauline Books & Media

Listen

by Gabi Snyder

Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin

This beautifully illustrated book invites children to listen and become aware of the world around them – the sights, sounds, and touch experiences of daily life.  Author Gabi Snyder opens young children to the skill of mindfulness that will support and nourish them throughout their life.  This same ability for deep listening provides a child with the foundations of Christian meditation and contemplation.

This wonderfully simple book is perfect for parents or grandparents to read aloud with a special young person in their life – or even to take with a child to the park where reading can become an experience!

Available online from Pauline Books & Media

Stay This Way Forever

by Linsey Davis

Illustrated by Lucy Fleming

Celebrate the joy, wonder, and innocence of being a child with this love letter to the loved ones in your life that encourages them to celebrate their own special qualities now and into the future.

Author of ‘The World Is Awake’ and ‘One Big Heart’, Linsey Davis, has written another beautiful book that parents, and grandparents can share with their little ones to let them know how special they are.  With charming illustrations from artist Lucy Fleming paired with playful and heart-warming rhymes to read aloud, this book will make a lasting impact on young minds as they discover their own unique qualities.

This is a great read for ages 4-8 that celebrates the uniqueness of every child.

Available online from Pauline Books & Media

Behold the Handmaid of the Lord: A 10-Day Personal Retreat with St. Louis de Montfort’s True Devotion to Mary

by Edward Looney

Considered by many to be the greatest book of Marian spirituality in one volume, St. Louis de Montfort’s classic, True Devotion to Mary, shows us the spiritual way to Jesus Christ though the Blessed Virgin Mary. In Behold the Handmaid of the Lord, Marian theologian Fr. Edward Looney masterfully summarises the central teachings of St. Louis in a ten-day personal retreat.

During the course of these ten days, you will explore ten different titles for Mary popularised by St. Louis.  Each presents a distinct aspect of her motherhood and protection while illuminating the spiritual path to Jesus through Mary.

Each day you will reflect on Mary’s role in your life and the practical implications of that connection before wrapping up with a brief closing prayer tailored to the day’s title.  You’ll come away prepared to begin or renew your consecration to Mary and with a refreshed love for the Mother of Jesus.

Available online from Pauline Books & Media

At His Feet: Drawing Closer to Christ with the Women of the New Testament

by Derya Little

In this book, you will find the stories of twelve women of the New Testament.  The names of most of these women are recorded in the Bible, but some names are lost to history.  Regardless, they all encountered Jesus in a special way that changed the courses of their lives.

The corresponding Scripture verses are noted at the beginning of each chapter for your reflection and prayer.  You are encouraged to keep your Bible close by and to read the Scripture first.

Each chapter begins with a short glance into the life of the woman, to bring you back in time and allow you to walk in her shoes.  Like the women of the New Testament, we can bring Jesus our burdens and receive his healing, love and grace.

Available online from Pauline Books & Media

By Sr Joanna Coleiro fsp

Pauline Books & Media is run by The Daughters of St Paul, which is an international congregation of religious women founded to spread the Gospel through the channels of the modern media.  Why not visit the book shop at 7 Denmark Hill Road, East Hawthorn.  Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm and Saturday 9.00 am to 12 noon.