BOOKS

What if we taught young people that they can measure success by how they follow Christ rather than by how much money they make or where they go to college?

In What Matters Most, University of Notre Dame theology professor Leonard J. DeLorenzo urges youth ministers, teachers, and parents to help young people redefine success in light of their call to discipleship--completely saying yes to God.

In Luke's account of the Annunciation, Mary offers a true model of discipleship for young people to follow. Her example will empower them to make choices about how to live their lives as a courageous yes to God in everything they choose--just as she did.

DeLorenzo, who served as the long-time director of Notre Dame Vision--a program designed to help young Catholics find their true calling as disciples of Jesus--shows how Mary exhibited four habits that will guide young people to make important life decisions:

Listen carefully and practice patience.

Remember who we are and what we value most.

Respond with compassion to choices we face.

Embrace sacrifice for the sake of love.

DeLorenzo includes personal stories from his experience as a father and working with youth and young adults with spiritual wisdom to equip teachers, mentors, pastoral ministers, and parents to reexamine the way they encourage and help form young Catholics approaching significant life choices such as college and jobs. He presents ways to remedy spiritual deficits in these young people created by cultural realities such as the fast pace of tech-driven lives and the looming pressure to succeed with worldly accomplishments.

Poetry is the language of Catholicism. From the songs of Scripture to the hymns of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Church has always used metaphor and image, meter and rhyme, and the music of language to illuminate and inculcate the faith.

Yet, when it comes to Catholic poetry itself, the song too often remains unsung. Many devout believers recoil from poetry, even when it is deeply Catholic. Many poetry lovers overlook Catholic poetry, even when it is truly great. And passionate readers are left with few resources from which to draw inspiration--even as the number of great Catholic poems continues to grow.

This groundbreaking collection is designed to change that. Edited by acclaimed poet and author Sally Read, it includes a carefully curated collection of poetry with brief essays to introduce each selection; a detailed introduction and glossary of poetic terms; and a wide range of poetic voices--from giants like Dante and Shakespeare, to mystical saints like Hildegard of Bingen and John of the Cross, to modern masters like Gerard Manley Hopkins and Oscar Wilde, to contemporary female poets like Denise Levertov and Anne Porter. What emerges is truly universal: an unparalleled collection spanning twenty countries and twenty centuries.

Whether Catholic or non-Catholic, a poetry skeptic or a poetry lover, readers will glean from these pages a deepened appreciation of the history of poetry, the life of the Church, and the powerful ways in which each strengthens the other.

"There is no evil to be faced that Christ does not face with us. There is no enemy that Christ has not already conquered. There is no cross to bear that Christ has not already borne for us, and does not now bear with us."

Pope Saint John Paul II embodied these words throughout his life. Born May 18, 1920, in Wadowice, Poland, Karol Józef Wojtyla lived in times of political turmoil. As a young man during the Nazi occupation of Poland, he studied in an underground seminary. As pope, he was instrumental in the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe. Through it all, he maintained an unwavering hope in the ultimate triumph of love, truth, and beauty. He remains a hero to millions of people for his unflinching defense of the Church and her teachings.

John Paul II changed the world in many ways; this book describes 100 of the most important. Each of the 100 accomplishments, teachings, or stories about John Paul II is fascinating, providing a glimpse into the astounding life and impact of this great and beloved saint.

"No one can deny that Pope Saint John Paul II had a staggering impact on the world. Among other things, he was a political visionary, a cultural influencer, an artist, a formidable thinker and theologian, and above all, a courageous shepherd of the people of God. Patrick Novecosky has done the Church and the world an invaluable service by highlighting 100 of the most important ways in which this beloved saint transformed the world by urging souls to 'Be not afraid, ' and to allow themselves to fall deeply in love with Christ." -- Raymond Arroyo, EWTN News Director and New York Times bestselling author

"Pope Saint John Paul II was a leader in every sense -- spiritual, moral, intellectual, and political. With vision, charisma, and most of all love, he exerted a profound and lasting influence on the Church and the world, and that influence continues today -- 100 years after his birth. Of course, he changed the world in millions of ways that no book will ever be able to capture. But in 100 Ways John Paul II Changed the World, Patrick Novecosky offers a sweeping picture of the astonishing impact of this great man. Read this book and share it with everyone you know." -- Senator Rick Santorum

"I cannot think of anyone who has had a bigger impact on the world in recent years than Saint John Paul II. Patrick has masterfully described 100 ways in which this saint has brought about global change. This list is important as it reminds us of the changes that must be upheld and provides inspiration to those who want to bring about 100 more changes!" -- Jeff Cavins, founder of The Great Adventure Bible Study

"To many, Saint John Paul II was the only pope they knew while growing up. However, many younger Catholics have yet to discover the greatness of his life and legacy. In his book 100 Ways John Paul II Changed the World, Patrick Novecosky offers a wealth of stories and examples that will rekindle devotion in all for this tremendous saint!" -- Jason Evert, author of Saint John Paul the Great and Theology of the Body in One Hour

"Patrick entered the winner's circle when he wrote this book, unpacking the historical papacy of Saint John Paul into 100 topics that reveal the breadth, depth, and beauty of his long pontificate. Thorough, well-researched and documented, yet easily readable, 100 Ways unveils the brightness of John Paul's soul, the brilliance of his mind, and the boldness of his travels and initiatives such as World Youth Days. Behind every gesture, every prayer, every innovation, every apostolic trip, every bold move was John Paul's simple, childlike, trusting faith in both God and mankind. Patrick's personal stories and memories of Saint John Paul enhance this riveting journey through a unique papacy, and leave you awed, inspired and thankful for this saintly pontiff." -- Joan Lewis, EWTN's Rome Bureau Chief

"A fascinating and enjoyable commentary, rich with insights into the many facets and feats of the inimitable Pope John Paul II." -- Patrick Madrid, host of the Patrick Madrid Show on Relevant Radio

"Novecosky has done a superb job pulling together many of the threads in Saint John Paul II's life. At the heart of this story, you will see the fruit of a life lived from a place of encounter with Jesus Christ. There is something in 100 Ways for everyone -- I highly recommend it!" -- Curtis Martin, founder, Fellowship of Catholic University Students

"In 1997, Patrick Novecosky and I were both in Rome for the first time. Over pizza and gelato, we spoke of what it would be like to meet the saintly Polish pope. Days later Patrick was blessed to meet him while I missed the opportunity because I ate too much gelato and got sick! Now in this delightful book, my longtime friend has reminded me of why John Paul II was so great and why he remains one of my greatest heroes. I highly recommend this book to everyone. John Paul II, we still love you!" -- Very Rev. Donald Calloway MIC, Vicar Provincial, Marian Fathers

"A brilliant glimpse into an extraordinary life! Flipping through the pages of 100 Ways was like looking at a photo album of Saint John Paul II's life. Each short story paints a picture of an amazing accomplishment in the life of this modern-day saint and shows how everything he did was rooted in relationship -- his relationship with countries and world leaders, religious and laity, saints and sinners, children and elderly, fathers and mothers, authors, artists, women, teenagers, and ultimately his relationship with Jesus Christ and his Blessed Mother. This book opened my eyes to the incredible depth of influence Saint John Paul II had on the world and made me realize that treating everyone we meet with openness, respect, and tenderness is how we can evangelize each and every day!" -- Kelly Wahlquist, founder of WINE: Women In the New Evangelization, author of Created to Relate: God's Design for Peace and Joy

"A beautiful tribute to an exceptional human being. Whether you are a longtime fan of Saint John Paul II, or just beginning to learn about his world-changing legacy, this book is a must-read!" -- Danielle Bean, brand manager of CatholicMom.com

"A unique collection of short, historic snapshots of Pope John Paul II's life and thought, 100 Ways is a delightful blend of history, commentary, and quotes from the pope himself. Extremely readable, engaging, and inspiring, it's a perfect gift, and a book of gems you will return to again and again." -- Vinny Flynn, speaker and author of Seven Secrets of the Eucharist

"The pontificate of Pope John Paul II will be remembered for many things, ranging from his voluminous writings to his impact on world history. It is because his legacy is so daunting that we need a book that compresses his life into an easily readable format. This is what Patrick Novecosky has done. He has made John Paul II's pontificate accessible to everyone, and for that we can all be grateful." -- Bill Donohue, President of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights

"I thank my friend Patrick Novecosky for a fantastic book -- eminently readable, overflowing with the pope's own words, recounting so many aspects of his astounding life, both internal and external, and reminding us that we must not miss out on the lessons of a pope and saint whom God placed right in our midst." -- Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director, Priests for Life

Think you really know Church History? Think Again
The Catholic Church is the longest-standing and the most universal of all institutions. The contributions made by Catholic men and women over the past 2000 years are most impressive, from a properly functioning calendar to the inventions of many things that we all take for granted today.
In 101 Surprising Facts About Church History, Fr. Meconi, SJ walks readers through the most amazing achievements of Christ's Body on earth. From economic and mercantile developments to scientific and astronomical advances, from the cataloging of zoological and botanical species to the cherishing of beautiful music and fine arts, Fr. Meconi shows you why the Catholic Church stands as the greatest promoter of human culture and knowledge.

What do you really know about Vatican City?

The Vatican, comprising the Apostolic Palace, St. Peter's Basilica, and various other buildings, serves as the headquarters of the Catholic Church. It has done so for nearly two millennium ever since the first Pope, St. Peter, made it his home.

Thousands of Catholics flock to the Vatican and its iconic basilica each year. But what do you really know about this great basilica and the city that houses it?

Here, Father Jeffrey Kirby takes you on a whirlwind tour of this little country (yes, Vatican City is its own country, Fact # 2) and uncovers the secrets and surprising facts about the city, and its famous church.

Discover what language degree you need to work a Vatican ATM, what archi tectural feature of St. Peter's is a map of the universe, and even what the pope's license plate number is. Along the way, you'll find the deep theological meaning woven into the design and architectural features of St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican.

Whether you've already been to Rome or are still planning your first trip, 101 Surprising Facts About the Vatican will transport you to Basilica and City at the heart of the Catholic Church and enable you to appreciate them like never before.

101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: Simple Ways for Couples to Grow Closer to God and to Each Other offers Catholic couples concise, practical, and at times humorous suggestions for creating and sustaining a more joyful, peace-filled marriage that is steeped in the beauty and mystery of Catholic faith.

Insights from marriage and family scholar Jennifer Roback Morse combine with the stories of young mother and wife Betsy Kerekes to make this a book for any Catholic couple--young or old--wanting to nurture their marriage. 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage is designed to help Catholic couples improve their relationships by making small changes in their habits, attitudes, and spirituality. Suggestions for everything from the most mundane aspects of marital life (housework, budgeting, weekend football) to the make-or-break components (forgiveness, kindness, prayer) help readers to love and appreciate their spouses anew.

The 12 virtues we must all acquire to be happy in this world and to save our souls. Many of our readers rate this the most beautiful and inspiring book they have ever read. For absolutely all! One of TAN's top 5 best-selling books. Impr. 210 pgs, PB

Handy guide that facilitates use of the large-type edition of THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS (Product Code: 709/13) by providing clear, accurate references for each day of the period specified.

The Agnus Dei Calendar & 12-Month Planner is perfect for the 2026 calendar year. This full size, spiral-bound design allows plenty of space for daily appointments in a lay-flat format. It has quickly become a favorite for either home or office use among professionals, students, and busy homeschooling families.

FEATURES INCLUDE

Weekly Planner in full color

Novenas for each month at the beginning of the planner with notes in the weekly planner section indicating each day of the novena

Pages for personal goals for the year

Space to customize your reading list for the year

A featured saint for each week with a story and illustration

Eye-catching design, simple but elegant

Spiral-bound, concealed spiral

Dates from the New and Traditional Liturgical Calendar

A list of saints' days and non-movable feasts in the calendar

Holy days and holidays for the year 2026

A comprehensive list of patron saints

List of the 37 Doctors of the Church, the 14 Holy Helpers, Saturdays of Our Lady

Explanation of fasting and abstinence

Catholic Identification cards and pocket calendars

This calendar is an essential tool for the Catholic family, teacher, or religious trying to schedule their lives according to the liturgical and/or school calendar.