How Saints Change

Kristina R. Olsen, Ph.D., OCDS

Paperback $9.99 | Kindle $9.99

Testimonials

“I found this book to be insightful and the stories relatable. I especially liked the ‘How they felt’ sections. I can see myself referring back to your book for reflection.” – Claire Gore, 2025 graduate and academic award recipient from the MA in Theology program at Holy Apostles College & Seminary, Cromwell, CT

“An inspiring exploration of faith, How Saints Change reveals the transformative journeys of saints, offering timeless lessons to deepen your spiritual life and trust in God.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, author of The Narrative Spirituality of Dante’s Divine Comedy

About the Author

Dr. Kristina Olsen has a Ph.D. in Theology/Spirituality from Catholic University of America, a D.B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Maryland, and an M.S. in Computer Science from Northwestern University. She also has certifications in Project Management (PMP) and Change Management (PCP). She is retired from Bell Laboratories, where she was a Member of the Technical Staff. Currently she serves as the Vice President of Academic Affairs at Holy Apostles College & Seminary in Cromwell, CT. She is a member of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS).

OTHER CATHOLIC SPIRITUALITY BOOKS

The Catholic Charismatic Renewal, Revisited

by Fr. Ray Introvigne, M.Div., and William Ayles, D.D.

ACTS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is an ACTS Retreat?

An ACTS retreat is a three-day, three-night Catholic lay retreat presented by fellow parishioners. The retreat begins on a Thursday evening as retreatants gather at the Sponsoring Parish for a short send-off ceremony. They are then transported to the retreat facility for the rest of the weekend. The retreat ends Sunday as the retreatants return to the Sponsoring Parish for a welcome Mass celebrated with the parish community followed by a simple reception. Activities during the retreat focus on Adoration, Community, Theology, and Service, from which the ACTS acronym is derived. Holy Scripture and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church are the guides for the retreats. Retreats for men, retreats for women and retreats for teens are given separately. The retreat takes on the traditions and atmosphere of the sponsoring parish community. The retreat facilitates the attainment of a new or deeper relationship with the Lord through: Adoration – the call by, acceptance of, and response to God; Community – the love and caring of each other; Theology – the study of God through scripture and the Catholic Faith, and Service – to God and his people. Each retreat is conducted by a retreat “team” of 20-30 individuals who have attended prior ACTS retreats. Chosen by the Retreat Director, the team organizes the retreat, conducts the retreat activities, and ministers to the needs of the retreatants during the weekend. Total attendance is limited by the size of the retreat facility, but the retreat will usually not exceed 70 people. With a retreat team of 20-30, the retreatants would then number 40-50.

What is the purpose of the ACTS retreat?

An ACTS weekend is designed to help the retreatants enter into a new or deeper relationship with our Lord and fellow parishioners. This is accomplished through Adoration and daily prayer, the call to Community in one’s parish as a member of the Body of Christ, and Theology in encouraging the study of scripture and our Catholic Faith. These all emphasize and encourage the virtue of Service to our Lord, our parish, and one another. The weekend allows the retreatants to experience God’s love and joy. They return to their parish with a deeper love for each other and a desire to become more involved in their parish faith community.

Why conduct an ACTS retreat?

The weekend is a powerful and enduring personal conversion experience. Activities focus on Adoration, the need for prayer and meditation on the word of God, Community, the importance of community built on faith and love, Theology, the need to read and understand scripture and our Catholic Faith, and Service, the need to answer Christ’s call to servant hood. These activities give retreatants a better understanding of the significance and importance of prayer, liturgy, the sacraments, scripture, community, and service. Retreatants are also given guidance to help them in their faith journey. The ACTS weekend brings the retreatants to a better understanding of God’s love for them and also develops their need to share that love with others through their involvement in a faith-centered parish community. It is a powerful community building experience. The retreat emphasizes our call to service, service to the parish community and to our world community. There results a new or renewed dedication to the life of the parish community and a new recognition of the needs of those around us and of our obligation, as followers of Christ, to help meet those needs.

TESTIMONIALS

“As a lifelong Catholic, I found this book intriguing. The Catholic Charismatic Renewal, Revisited piqued my interest into a deeper, more fulfilling personal relationship with the Holy Spirit. Father Ray presents his information in a straightforward and approachable manner – one I’d like to investigate further.” – Rita M. Reali, prolife Catholic author of the Sheldon Family Saga novels

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

OTHER SPIRITUALITY BOOKS

Saints and the Struggle for a Christian Society

authored by Paul Likoudis and edited by Andrew Likoudis

Paul Likoudis examines the lives of over sixty saints, drawing lessons on their contributions to Christian civilization and personal holiness. Likoudis highlights how these figures shaped history, combining spiritual devotion with societal transformation. Saints such as St. Joseph, St. Augustine, and St. Ambrose are depicted as exemplars of virtue, addressing challenges from heresies to societal decay with unwavering faith. Likoudis weaves their stories into the larger narrative of Church history, emphasizing their relevance to contemporary struggles.

The book underscores the universal call to holiness, as articulated in Vatican II’s Lumen Gentium, stressing that sainthood is achievable for all, regardless of one’s state in life. Saints emerge not only as historical figures but as models of how faith can transform personal lives and broader society. The text bridges the past and present, showing the saints’ relevance to modern times, offering inspiration for believers to contribute to building a Christian society.

Likoudis’ work is part hagiography, part historical commentary, and part devotional guide. By contextualizing the saints within their times, he provides a compelling roadmap for spiritual growth and societal engagement. The book appeals to those seeking a deeper understanding of the transformative power of Christian faith throughout history.

Paperback: $19.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“As a lover of the lives of the saints, who has written several books about them myself, I am delighted with this one. Likoudis manages to relate the most long-ago saints to the problems of our own times. A great read.” – Ronda Chervin, PhD, Emerita Professor of Philosophy, EWTN presenter, author of many Catholic books

“Here are the saints in context. Likoudis engages the work of great historians like Henri Daniel-Rops and Christopher Dawson to help his readers understand just what was going on in the wider society around these holy men and women. Seeing these saints against their worldly backdrop allows them to shine all the brighter and inspire us today all the more.” – Joseph T. Stuart, PhD, Professor of History and Fellow in Catholic Studies, University of Mary

“I enjoyed reading Paul Likoudis’ book on the saints when he first published it, and I’m grateful to see it published anew, because of the edifying portraits Paul provides of some of the Church’s greatest saints. As a holy priest once said: ‘The reason the saints are so ignored is because they are evidence that it is all true.’ In other words, the saints inconveniently testify through their lives to God’s reality and the Catholic Church’s divine foundation and sustenance, that remarkable holiness is not simply possible but desirable, and that we will all have to render a personal account to our Creator one day (see Matt. 18:1-4; 16:24-26).”  – Thomas J. Nash, Contributing Apologist, Catholic Answers, and author, To Whom Shall We Go?: The Biblical Case for the Catholic Church

“The late Paul Likoudis was an exemplary Catholic journalist and writer. His keen insight into Church politics was impressive, as was his knowledge of Church history. He documented so much during his earthly pilgrimage. Now in its third edition, Paul’s book Saints and the Struggle for a Christian Society is well-written, interesting and edifying. Highly recommended reading for Catholics and non-Catholics!” – Matt C. Abott, Catholic Journalist

“Likoudis is not giving us a dead history of past saints but a living road map to our future sainthood. Additionally, he gives us an understanding of how the spiritual giants shaped Catholic civilization, something we all need schooling in during our present day of social upheaval. Most importantly, by reading the highlights of his hand-picked saints, we take to heart his view that each person’s call to holiness is ‘perfectly normal and admirable.’” – Bradley Eli, MDiv, MTh, Senior Producer, St. Michael’s Media

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ABOUT THE EDITOR

OTHER SPIRITUALITY BOOKS

Catch to Watch

by Reverend Vincent A. Salamoni, M.S.A.

A collection of meditative reflections, like The Mercy Ocean, offering a spiritual journey into the depths of grace through the maritime imagery of the Mercy Ocean and various ones.

Here is a link for a free eBook!

TESTIMONIALS

As for testimonials for Catch to Watch, please be merciful and review the same ones in the books: THE MERCY OCEAN and THE SEA LORD’S BOOKSHELF

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Fr. Vincent A. Salamoni, M.S.A. (Vincent Gaspar Anthony Rizzuti Salamoni), is a member of the Society of the Missionaries of the Holy Apostles (M.S.A.). Their charism is to promote, form and accompany vocations to the priesthood and other ministries.

He ministered from on board from a dugout canoe in the Peruvian Amazon to on board the USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) nuclear air carrier, which is not the starship!

He is retired from in the Chaplain Corps of the United States Navy.

Now, he is a Provincial Emeritus of the MSA-USA and is being through, with, and in, the Mercy Ocean.

An Autobiography (abridged)

CHILDHOOD:

My four grandparents born in Sicily. They went to New York City, in approximately their twenties. They lived in the USA about 50 years and never spoke English. My father was 6 years old when he arrived in NYC. My mother was born in the USA; some of her siblings were born in Sicily. My father was an iconic NYC taxi driver for over 40 years. My mother worked as a seamstress in the NYC garment industry, and afterwards was a full-time housewife. I have three older sisters … extended biological family …

EXPERIMENTAL:

The development of my worldview: Received a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Worked 5 years in the insurance industry. Sailed 2 years in the U.S. Navy as a Radarman / Operations Specialist. Became a Vietnam veteran.

PRIESTHOOD:

Ordained in 1984; theological studies: 2 years in USA, 2 years in Rome. Missionaries of the Holy Apostles (M.S.A.)  2 years in Vicariate Apostolic San José del Amazonas (Peru); 1 year Connecticut; 2 years near Lima, 6 years near Caracas. U.S. Navy, Chaplain Corps: 13 active years: including – Okinawa; USS ENTERPRISE, not a starship, rather an aircraft carrier; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Iceland; Virginia; San Diego, Naval Hospital; Puerto Rico/Virgin Islands et cetera. Emeritus USA-MSA Provincial Animator (Superior) “Pastoral” Pasture

“After a dangerous voyage, at last I am in sight of the port I have been trying to get to for so long. I shall now be able to enjoy my God … and I shall be freed from a heavy load which I just can’t bear.” – Saint Louis of Anjou, on his deathbed

[Cited in THE MERCY OCEAN.]

Revelationship Devotional & Study Guide

by Cathy Garland and Dr. Randy Colver

Testimonials

“This book is a profound challenge to the Body of Christ to wake up to God’s passion for a deeper relationship with us. I particularly loved the chapter “The God Who Wrestles With Us.” You can always tell when someone has wrestled with God because—like Jacob—they walk differently. The personal stories of Randy and Cathy create a desire in the reader to experience a deeper relationship with God in a fresh transforming experience. This is a must-read!” – Frank Seamster, Evangelist, https://seamster.org/

“I’ve known Dr. Randy Colver for over forty years. His life as a husband, a father, a man of God, and a friend is the purest reflection of one who is a mature apprentice (disciple) of Jesus. His daughter Cathy is equally devoted to Christ. They both share an “epignosis” relationship with Jesus. Epignosis simply means an authentic, fully experiential, abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. Every page of this book will draw you into a transformative encounter with the Lord. “Revelationship” is a precursor of revival where the Word marries the Spirit.” – Elder Yul Crawford, Atlanta Metropolitan Cathedral

“The concept of this book is absolutely ingenious and so necessary. What a gift this resource will be to the body of Christ!” – Larry Sparks, MDiv., Publisher, Destiny Image, Author, Pentecostal Fire, LarrySparksMinistries.com

“The writers have poured you a glass of hope, for you hold an insightful and valuable book in your hand. Randy and Cathy offer you an open door through which you are welcome to come in and drink deeply of the Lord’s presence. There you will be surprised, enlarged, and instructed by God on what the love and fear of God really means, which is to know him through his word and the revelation of his presence.” – Nita G Berquist, Bible Teacher and Author, Kent, Washington

“Dr. Colver and his daughter, Cathy, take you into a deeper understanding of the nature of God and his pursuit of us. They create a ladder of experiences through each chapter based on their personal encounters with God that will stimulate a greater hunger to know Him and pursue Him. It is truly transformational and the questions, devotional readings, and time of reflection and prayer in the companion devotional guide drive home a deeper, applicable experience in your own journey in Christ. I highly recommend any book whose authors know God and provoke me to grow. This clearly is one of those books.” – Dr. Jay Zinn, Founder and Author, DiscipleshipGroup.com

“Revelationship is more than a book. It is a God-encounter…the Bible verse, “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalms 35: 8), becomes alive and tangible. Revelationship is a tool in the hands of Jesus for Christians to know Him and be known by Him. This is an experience I won’t soon forget, leaving me longing for the next chapter and more of Him.” – Sharon Mullins, Pastor of Coweta Community Church, cccnewnan.org

“A powerful message that speaks to every Christian of how the transformative activity of God in our lives draws us ever closer to him.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, Founder and President, WCAT Radio

“If you are pursuing to create or deepen a personal relationship with God, then read this book. Why? The authors cite example after example of biblical passages which specifically highlight why God desires to reveal Himself on a personal and intimate level. Each chapter is filled with not only insights from Scripture, but also personal experiences from their own lives of how revelationship transformed and deepened their understanding of God’s love and goodness. So, if you’re looking for practical and thoughtful insights having a revelationship with God, then you will not be disappointed.” – Dr. Alan Cureton, Former President of Northeastern University – St. Paul

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Cathy Colver Garland, oldest daughter of Dr. Randy Colver, writes Gracefull Musings, a blog providing women a moment of rest and challenge before those little fingers appear under the bathroom door. A former Vice-President of a software company, she currently consults with institutions and companies on marketing, sales, and strategy. She also mentors women in professional, spiritual, and personal development. Saved and living an “absolutely surrendered” life, her passion is to teach people to hear God’s voice and obey, surrender their lives absolutely, and walk in freedom. She is married to Mickey and has two children in elementary school.

Theology of the Heart: Tracing a Spiritual Anatomy Within

by Sr. M. Gianna Casino, LIHM

In a world increasingly defined by fleeting pursuits, the human heart remains an enigmatic realm, harboring profound mysteries and the deepest longings of the individual. Just as the human body holds theological meaning towards the purpose of man, the human heart holds a significant theological and teleological meaning. Based on the truth that there is more to life than what meets the eye, Theology of the Heart: Tracing the Spiritual Anatomy Within is a book that embarks on an exploration of the human heart integrating through a weaving of ancient wisdom, philosophical psychology, and the spirituality of Augustine and Aquinas, and back to the words of Christ in the Gospel. This book offers readers an opportunity to delve into the very essence of what it means to be human and what makes us tick.

The book also responds directly to one of the last requests of Pope John Paul II as it delves into the intricate and often misunderstood realm of human suffering – he mentions that there is a place for the mystery of suffering in Theology of the Body and expresses hope for future development. Theology of the Heart does not neglect the biological foundation of the human person that prepares readers for a fundamental yet enlightening philosophical insight into the human interior. The audience is aimed at young men and women who are in formation for marriage or consecrated life who could benefit from a prequel in order to understand Theology of the Body and approach the mystery of suffering in their respective vocation.

Paperback: $TBA | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

TBA

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sr. Mary Gianna Casino, a missionary of the Leaven of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, desired to become a nun from the age of 5. With a unique blend of perspectives as a Catholic sister, educator, and counseling student, her writings have appeared in Augustine Institute’s FORMED Newsletter, One Voice Magazine, and Columbia Magazine. She holds degrees in Philosophy and Theology from Holy Apostles College & Seminary, currently pursues a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Divine Mercy University and is a postgraduate trainee of School & Global Mental Health at Harvard Medical School. Sister taught at several schools including Don Manuel Rivera National High School in the Philippines, Sacred Heart Elementary, and St. Bernard College Prep School in Cullman, Alabama. As a member of the Society of Catholic Social Scientists, Sr. Gianna aims to integrate her community’s mission of forming the young, to better address society’s pressing spiritual needs. She and her sisters host a children’s YouTube series “LIHMposts” and the podcast “Young Davids: Change the Trend.” In reaching the hearts of today’s generation, they strive to make the teachings of the Catholic faith accessible and enjoyable.

OTHER SPIRITUALITY BOOKS