The Virtue of Affability or Friendliness and its Relevance in Modern Evangelization

by Anne DeSantis, Th.D.

This book explores the critical role of affability in contemporary outreach, aiming to bring this often-overlooked virtue into the spotlight. The author engages the writings of Pope Francis and selected saints expressing that affability is a virtue which impacts human relations for the good of the world, propelling evangelization efforts to the fullest level. The reason for its effectiveness is because friendly interactions influence the lives of both the giver and the receiver, which offers encouragement and produces joy. Evidence of this rests not only on the tenets of the Gospels and of the teachings of the Church but also on modern studies concerning the neuroscience of emotion and other areas of psychology.

Paperback: $24.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Living the Truth in Love is challenging. The demands of the Gospel are difficult enough without making it undesirable by our misery. One’s first encounter with Christ is through the members of His Body, and Dr. Anne DeSantis has rightfully emphasized the importance of not distorting the image of our loving, just, and merciful God.” – Fr. Matthew Phelan, Vicar Provincial of the Mercedarian Friars, USA

Drawing upon contemporary papal writings, most especially that of Pope Francis, sacred scripture, the Church Fathers and the lives of the saints, Dr. Anne DeSantis has skillfully created a framework for Pastoral Care based on the virtue of affability.  The need for healing is great, and affability is a choice we must make in our dealings with others, if we are to bring Jesus to those we meet each day.  This book is a roadmap for missional mercy offered in Christ’s name.” – Dr. Mary Amore, Executive Director, Mayslake Ministries

“In such a divided world, division that also affects the Church, the virtue of affability in the practice of evangelization is essential to credibility of the faithful. DeSantis shows us that now is the time to hone this virtue and gives stunning examples of the saints for us to follow.” – Carmina Chapp, Ph.D., Dean, School of Theological Studies, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary

“Anne DeSantis’ The Virtue of Affability offers a profound exploration of how kindness and approachable demeanor can transform modern evangelization. This timely guide emphasizes affability as essential for healing divisions and fostering meaningful connections, drawing from scripture, saints’ lives, and Pope Francis’ teachings. DeSantis inspires readers to embody compassion, highlighting how affability bridges gaps and renews faith in today’s complex world. A must-read for fostering genuine love and mercy in everyday life.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism: A Framework for the Refutation of Atheism and the Evangelization of Atheists

“Dr. Anne DeSantis, in this important work, contributes much to the theological study on the virtue of affability and provides valuable insight and practical wisdom on why it is necessary for all to Christians to practice and employ along their journey of faith.” – Bill Snyder, Founder and CEO, Patchwork Heart Ministry

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Anne DeSantis is a Catholic author and speaker from the Greater Philadelphia area. Her primary mission and tagline is: Prayer, Perseverance, and Positivity.

She is wife, mother, and grandmother who values family and treasures her Catholic faith. Her speaking events focus on the value of living the faith with joy as “Missionary Disciples” for Christ.

Dr. Anne DeSantis is the Executive Director for the St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation for Freedom, Family, and Faith. The foundation makes pastoral outreach to families in crisis. She has been working with the foundation helping families to find needed healing since 2017, and this is her main profession.

Anne is honored to have been awarded as “Catholic Woman of the Year 2023” from the Knights of Columbus Philadelphia Chapter. Additionally, Anne has received recognition and honors from: the Pennsylvania Knights of Columbus; the Philadelphia City Council, and the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in connection with this award.

She is a former homeschooling parent for fifteen-plus years successfully schooling her daughters from PreK through high school. Spending quality time with family as a stay-at-home mom was one of the best decisions she has ever made. A teacher by trade with a BS in Secondary Education, Anne earned an MA in Theology in 2021 from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, and she holds a doctorate in theology (ThD) from Pontifex University (completed in 2024).

In 2015, Anne began to pursue a new career after years of devoting herself to her family full-time.
She became involved in commercial modeling/acting, hosting, and writing. As a hobby, Anne continues to accept jobs as a model/actress. She has learned a great deal about the broadcasting world through this work. Some of her work in commercials includes working with national and local companies for TV and online ads, skin care progressionals, and as a host and presenter.

Anne hosts the online TV program called Journeys in Faith with Anne DeSantis which airs on the Anne DeSantis YouTube Channel. She also co-hosts the Sewing Hope Podcast with Bill Snyder, Founder of Patchwork Heart Ministry. Previous to hosting these programs, Anne was the host of the online TV show The Positive Side on RVNTV in Cherry Hill, NJ.

Dr. Anne DeSantis is a Catholic Speaker with Catholic Speakers Organization. She has spoken at churches and organizations, and she is currently booking speaking engagements both locally and nationally. To learn more, visit Anne’s Speaking Events Page. She is also a writer for three online publications: CatholicMom.com, Catholic365, and EpicPew.

Anne’s life mission includes educating others on the importance of making outreach to the marginalized of our world as Christ has instructed his followers. They are in our families, our friends, neighbors, co-workers, those we go to church with, and various others. She empathizes and understands the pain of isolation and confusion that comes with marginalization, and she does her best to teach others how to become more compassionate as essential in living out the faith.

Anne invites you to learn more about her work by considering booking her for a speaking engagement for your church or organization.

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Transgenderism: A Question of Identity

by Francis Etheredge

ARTICLES

TESTIMONIALS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mr. Francis Etheredge is married with eight children, plus three in heaven.

Francis is currently a freelance writer and speaker and his “Posts” on LinkedIn can be viewed here. Poetry; short articles; autobiographical blog; excerpts from books; and “Philosophize: A Ten Minute Write.”

For a list of all of Francis’ books published by En Route Books and Media, click here.

See Francis’ other books, too, entitled Scripture: A Unique Word, From Truth and truth: Volume I-Faithful Reason, From Truth and truth: Volume II: Faith and Reason in Dialogue, From Truth and truth: Volume III: Faith is Married Reason.

He has earned a BA Div (Hons), MA in Catholic Theology, PGC in Biblical Studies, PGC in Higher Education, and an MA in Marriage and Family (Distinction).

Enjoy these additional articles by Francis Etheredge:

• Witness “begets” Witnesses
• Love is a Liturgical Act
• The Holy Family, Celibacy, and Marriage: A Reflection on the “Passage” from the Jewish Rite of Marriage to the Sacrament of Marriage
• “Do-it-Yourself” or Vocation: Coincidence or Providence

OTHER PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Conscientious Objection in Medical Practice: A Content Analysis of the Victorian Parliamentary Discussions Establishing the Abortion Law Reform Act 2008

by Eric Manuel Torres

This book explores Victoria’s Abortion Law Reform Act (ALRA) 2008 as it relates to health practitioners exercising conscientious objection to induced abortion. In examining the moral nature of abortion and what constitutes a valid conscientious objection, Dr. Torres argues that the ALRA undermines the right of medical practitioners to uphold a conscientious objection to partaking in an induced abortion. Through a content analysis of the parliamentary debate that established the ALRA, this research identifies the dominant ethical opinions underpinning this legislation in order to understand and explain the reasons for why this law treats conscientious objection the way it does.

Paperback: $TBA | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Conscientious Objection in Medical Practice is a thorough, detailed, impressive treatment of the topic… Not only is this a supremely impressive book, but it is also likely to be seen as the authoritative study of the subject.” – Dr. Stephen M. Krason, Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the Franciscan University of Steubenville

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eric Manuel Torres is a Catholic moral theologian and bioethicist with a background in health care. Based in Melbourne, Australia, he is an Honorary Postdoctoral Associate at Catholic Theological College/University of Divinity.

Dr. Torres holds a Bachelor of Health Sciences and a Master of Orthoptics from La Trobe University, a Master of Nursing Science from the University of Melbourne, a Graduate Diploma of Theology, a Master of Theological Studies, and a Doctor of Philosophy from Catholic Theological College/University of Divinity, and a Graduate Certificate of Specialist Inclusive Education from Deakin University. He also holds a Certificate III in Business Administration.

Dr. Torres has published several articles in various scholarly publications, including Homiletic and Pastoral Review, the Journal of Religion and Health, and the Asia Pacific Journal of Youth Studies. Additionally, he is the author of the book, Curing and Healing: Vital Elements of Catholic Health Care, as well as its Spanish dition/translation, Curación y Sanación: Elementos Vitales de la Asistencia Sanitaria Católica, both published by En Route Books and Media.

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Dealing Effectively with Domestic Abuse: The Ministry of Reconciliation and Healing

By Sr. Adaku Helen Ogbuji, CCVI, PhD

“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Eph 5:25).

This work examines the different faces of violence in our society and how a woman’s body is sometimes treated as an object to be used. When one gender dominates and oppresses another, then the system needs to change. Following this line of argument, the African patriarchal society needs transformation.

Many women have suffered abuse at home and in society. Often removed from decisions that affect them, these women live with false stories of violence at home, suffering psychological, sexual, physical, cultural, and economic abuse. Through the grace of God, the reconciliation process starts with the victim of violence. However, the Church must create certain local conditions before reconciliation can take place, including interpreting and using specific gospel passages that refute domestic abuse, emphasizing the recent documents of the Church that promote the dignity of women and family life values, and forming parish support groups to allow victims of abuse to experience healing through rituals, prayers, the sharing of stories, seminars, and workshops.

The recommendations and methods enumerated in this work can be effective and fruitful in giving voice to the voiceless, liberation to the oppressed, and healing to the wounded women seeking redemption from their tragic stories. 

Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Lost in the political and economic challenges/upheavals and violence that threaten society at the national and global scenes, most people seldom look down and around them to perceive a worse crime that scourge humanity – Domestic Violence. Sr. Helen Ogbuji in her beautifully and lucidly articulated book draws our attention to the ravages of this monster that dwells among us. Dealing Effectively with Domestic Abuse very importantly is largely a fruit of the author’s ministerial experience that does not end at exposing the cruelty of Domestic Abuse in Africa but proffers universally praxis-based solutions. The application of the theological concept of reconciliation is uniquely ad rem. The thrust that genuine reconciliation precedes true healing is empowering to abused persons and transforming to the social structures that bolster violence. Dealing Effectively with Domestic Abuse is a handy tool for all in ministry, both ordained and non-ordained. It is a ‘must read‘ for all men and women in relationships especially those facing abuse in their relationships. As an advocate of empowerment and emancipation of abused persons, I found the book enriching.” – Rev. Fr. Dr. Henry Ogbuji, author of From Where Shall Come Our Help? The Lament of Abused Persons

“Violence in our society is the antithesis of what it means to be human, and to live like one. Sr. Adaku, in this well-researched and finely articulated book, adds to the moral voice of awareness, caution, and solution. I do recommend this book to those who seek enlightenment and desire to stop domestic violence.” — Rev. Udo Ogbuji, author of The Peace I Know

“Sr. Adaku’s work in this text is a testimony of hope and compassion. Grounded in faith, she believes in the power of the Risen Christ to undo all the wrongs of violence inflicted on the innocent. The book seeks to be a concrete expression of God’s love directed towards those most in need of healing from domestic violence.” – Sr. Collen Mary Mallon, OP, PhD

“This book is appropriate for families who are finding it difficult to come out from their debased life of hatred, violence, and unforgiving heart… It is valid for formators, educators, and those who journey with the vulnerable people as it offers relevant perspectives for an approach to interpreting the domestic life situation in general and the steps to move towards healing and reconciliation. I recommend this book to everyone because we all come from families.” – Sr. Dr. Elizabeth Ngozi Okpalaenwe, MSHR

“A refreshing and reshaping text. Sister Helen invites carefully but energetically to compassionate relations among Christians–the core of our faith: forgive as you breathe. Must read for all concerned leaders.” – Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Foro, SJ

ABOUT THE EDITOR

Sister Adaku Helen (Helena) Ogbuji, CCVI, PhD, belongs to the Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston, Texas. She is an author of several books: Dealing Effectively with Domestic Abuse: The Ministry of Reconciliation and Healing; Influence of Childhood Experiences on Faith Development: A Journey Towards Wholeness; Out of the Lips of Infants, Wisdom Comes: Retelling the Bible Stories. Recently, she edited and co-authored Incarnational Spirituality: Embodying the Love of the Incarnate Word. She holds a master’s in Theology, Divinity and Psychology and a PhD in Counseling Psychology. Presently, she is the Formation Director and the Novice Director in their formation house in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

OTHER PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Freedom and Truth in Suffering: A Moral and Theological Approach for Humanity​

by Sydney March, BA (Theology), BSN, MS (Bioethics), MA (Moral Theology), RN, PHN

Paperback: $12.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Sydney March brings to her argument the same passionate commitment she brings to patient care, with the added conviction of her Catholic faith.  This book is an argument for the possibility that suffering can be endured and perhaps redemptive; her argument will have the most meaning for the committed Catholic believer.  Though I do not share the religious belief, as a physician I recognize and appreciate the commonality we share in seeing the patient and the human as a spiritual whole.  For the Catholic believer this thesis will be reassuring and instructive; for all others it will provide a clear insight into the strength that the Catholic provider can draw from a detailed analysis of the faith in attending to the sick, which in the end is our common human goal.” – Warren Kearney, M.D. C.M. HEC-C, ASBH Certified Health Care Ethics Consultant

“This significant work provides guidance for both the health care professional, and those they serve, to enable the sufferer to persevere and flourish. ‘Suffering well’ involves truth concerning the transcendent needs of the human person, so that moral and effective choices can be made, while trusting in God’s providential care.” – Dr. Marie T. Hilliard, MS (Maternal Child Health Nursing), MA (Religious Studies), JCL (Canon Lawyer), PhD, RN, Senior Fellow, The National Catholic Bioethics Center

“Sydney March explores the nature of suffering and its role in the Christian moral life with insight and sensitivity in this lovely book. Her enlightening reflections will be of value to all who recognize the need to ‘suffer well’ as we sojourn in this valley of tears.” – Dr. Christopher Tollefsen, Professor of Philosophy, University of South Carolina

“Understanding suffering is vitally important in today’s world that so often seeks to escape suffering and finds it meaningless. This short treatise on suffering beautifully expounds on the redemptive and salvific meaning that suffering can beget. This book balances an understanding of the philosophical meaning of suffering with its existential reality, addressing the sufferer with compassion. It also reveals how each of us, in our own suffering, can be encouraged by the example of Jesus Christ, who willfully accepted suffering for the sake of others. For healthcare professionals in particular, we are not only called to alleviate what suffering we can, but also to genuinely accompany the sufferer, and, in some sense, to enter into their suffering. I trust this work will allow each reader to become a beacon of hope to a suffering world.” – Lisa Gilbert, MD, MA (Ethics), FAAFP, Family Physician

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS