Regis J. Flaherty

Regis Flaherty’s latest book highlights his gift of storytelling. Each of the thirty short chapters (ranging from three to seven pages) contains: a story, a moral or lesson, a Scripture quote as well as one from the Catechism or other Catholic document or spiritual writing, a prayer, and questions for reflection or discussion.

While it can be read straight through with profit, as I can attest, the subtitle of each chapter (which appears in the Table of Contents as well) will be useful for anyone who needs encouragement or guidance in a particular area or areas.

I found the book uplifting. I was impressed by Flaherty’s willingness to reveal some deeply personal stories and encounters that will resonate with readers and encourage them to take advantage of opportunities in what they previously may have considered the ordinary humdrum of daily life. It will also help the reader to consider how he or she might respond in extraordinary events and encounters they may have in the future. I think, too, that it will encourage one to reflect upon, and be more open to share, their own experiences with friends and loved ones. In fact, in a special way, I would heartily recommend that this book be given as a gift to fallen-away family and friends to invite them to come back to the Church. It is a gentle, easy read that should really tug at the heartstrings of those, like some mentioned in the book, who have been away and/or are adrift (whether they realize it or not).

The key to this is allowing God to work through us in our encounters with others. I heard a speaker once talk about a man who was complaining to God about a certain evil he was seeing in the world and asking God why He would allow it. God responded interiorly to the man by saying that He put HIM there as a channel to help put an end to that very evil.

In the Introduction, Flaherty says: “I share these stories with the hope and the prayer that they bless you.” I consider myself doubly blessed in that I was also privileged to review a draft of the book. I invite you to be blessed as well.… (mais)

Take a walk through the Mass. To appreciate the awe of the Mass we need to view the Mass with spiritual eyes and see the reality behind the externals. Let's look at the Eucharistic Liturgy through spiritual lenses. Be careful—it may just take your breath away. About the Series: Faith Basics Faith Basics are concise explanations of various dimensions of the Catholic Faith aimed at a popular audience. They both inform and inspire readers to understand and live the Faith. Their convenient size makes them readily portable. They are economically priced and thus are ideal for distribution in evangelization efforts, RCIA classes, study groups, and various outreach programs.… (mais)