In these essays, Canadian Catholic teacher and essayist Marie Brousseau addresses today’s most pressing moral controversies — from freedom of speech and religion to gender ideology, abortion, relativism, and beyond. With clarity, conviction, and compassion, she presents Catholic answers grounded in faith, science, and reason, offering a powerful defense of human dignity in our troubled age.
Paperback: $14.95 USD | Kindle: $9.99 USD
“I recently happened upon a book by Marie Brousseau entitled Defending Human Dignity: Catholic Answers to Gender, Abortion, and Relativism. In an age where in-depth debate on serious topics of life and dignity is rarely allowed a forum for expression, her book was a breath of fresh air. I found it to be extremely well researched and beautifully written on these topics, often seen as too sensitive, actually, to hear the rationale and basis of the ‘other side.’ Whether you agree or disagree with her on each topic, at least you are presented with clarity and conviction on why conservative Christians like Marie have developed their understandings of these issues that strike at the core of the dignity of the human person. Some will say it takes a great deal of courage to speak out with conviction on these hot-button topics, but what I found is an author and thinker who cares enough to share the objective truth more than opinion. Thank you for sharing this deeply needed treatment of these very human truths.”– Jim Sano, Author of the Father Tom series, including award-winning novels Stolen Blessings, Joline, and The Father’s Son (jimsano.com).
“This is an excellent book of essays, written from the viewpoint of a Canadian Catholic teacher. The author has done her research and explains Catholic teachings on human dignity and morality with finesse. Highly recommend!” – Ellen Gable, Catholic author and publisher; visit her blog at Plot Line and Sinker
“Marie Brousseau’s book is terrific. With vibrant lingo, she counteracts the ills in our society today coming from false ideas and dictatorial methods of enforcing them. Some of these evil endeavors I had never even heard of! Brilliant. Get it now!” – Dr. Ronda Chervin, Catholic philosopher, writer, speaker and media presenter
“Marie Brousseau offers a courageous witness to truth in a culture adrift. With clarity and conviction, she calls us to defend human dignity and embrace reason illumined by faith in Christ.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism
Marie Brousseau is a Canadian teacher and essayist whose life and work are deeply shaped by her Catholic faith. She is married and brings both personal and professional dedication to her vocation as an educator. Graduating magna cum laude with dual majors in biology and education, she combines a strong scientific background with a passion for learning. Her academic and professional focus has expanded into languages and religion, areas in which she now specializes and contributes through both teaching and writing. Her essays and articles have been published in leading online Catholic platforms, including Catholic Exchange, Celebrate Life Magazine, and Those Who Mourn Magazine. Readers can also learn more about this author by tuning in to her interviews on Catholic media outlets such as The Catholic Bookworm and Respect Life Radio.
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Jennifer Ristine interviewed Liz Tabish, the actress who plays Mary Magdalene on The Chosen. Click play on the video below.
Companion to Becoming Magdalene is a spiritual exercises guidebook designed for journaling, reflection, and group sharing. Rooted in the dynamics of St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises, it invites readers to journey with Mary Magdalene through Scripture, prayer, and personal experience, discovering God’s love, mercy, and transformative call. Ideal for individual devotion, retreats, or group study, it nurtures faith, hope, and discipleship.
Paperback $9.99
“I feel like I just met the Magdalene. What a beautiful blending of biblical and pious traditions with profound spiritual and psychological insight, the work not only of good scholarship but even more a true contemplative!” – Dr. Anthony Lilles, St. Patrick’s Seminary and University, Menlo Park, CA, co-founder the Avila Institute of Spiritual Formation
“Jennifer Ristine brings Mary Magdalene to vivid life, revealing the childhood wounds that shaped her into the woman we encounter in the Gospels—and how Jesus transformed her into the model of a female disciple. Weaving biblical scholarship with Ignatian spirituality, Ristine creates an original retreat experience. Following the “apostle of the apostles” through her story, familiar Gospel scenes come alive in startling new ways, while you discover the deeper terrain of your own wounded heart in need of divine mercy. A reading experience that becomes a spiritual journey—where Mary Magdalene’s story of redemption becomes a mirror for your own.” -Dr. Nina Heereman, author of Athirst for the Spirit: Biblical Wisdom for Desert Times
“Jesus Christ is the greatest storyteller of all time. HIStory is the one which matters most. “Becoming the Magdalene” highlights this reality by brilliantly retelling the story of Jesus through the eyes of Mary Magdalene. Followers of Christ never tire of hearing the words of scripture. Jennifer Ristine is obedient to hierarchical biblical accuracy, as she uses historical facts and recent archaeological findings, with a vibrant imagination, to give spiritual insights on the relationship between Mary Magdalene and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Readers are brought back to the first century where they will visualize the life and times of Jesus as they pore over every word He speaks in the Gospel. Ristine further explores the complexities and difficulties of the first century Apostles. This book invokes one to utter the perfect prayer with their lives. Through Mary Magdalene’s humility, and her title “Apostle to the Apostles”, we give thanks and praise to Our Lord Jesus Christ. We reflect in self-awareness, which leads to repentance and reparation. And finally, we commit our lives to the service of God.” – Mary Driscoll, Script Analyst/Writer
“I loved reading Becoming Magdalene: Historical Fiction. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres because it lets me learn while still getting lost in a story; and Jennifer Ristine does this so well. The history felt alive, and the storytelling pulled me in from the start.” – Fr. Anton Vogelsang, LC, author of Génesis: Crimen, castigo, bendición and El Éxodo: Conversión y regreso a casa
“This companion guide invites the reader into a prayerful encounter with Mary Magdalene. It beautifully integrates Scripture, reflection, and Ignatian practice, offering both depth and accessibility for those seeking renewal and discipleship.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, author of The Narrative Spirituality of Dante’s Divine Comedy
Jennifer Ristine is a consecrated woman of Regnum Christi, which is a Society of Apostolic Life in the Catholic Church. She consecrated her life to God in 1997 and has been engaged in faith and spiritual formation primarily through teaching, writing, conferences, retreats and spiritual direction. She has been a contributor for RC Spirituality, epriest, and an instructor for the online Spiritual Director Certificate course at Divine Mercy University in Virginia. She is the author of Mary Magdalene: Insights from Ancient Magdala and Nine Days with Mary Magdalene. She served for 12 years as a teacher of pedagogy, theology and spirituality classes at Mater Ecclesiae College, and served from 2014-2018 as the Director of the Magdalena Institute and the Visitors’ Center Coordinator in Magdala, the ancient hometown of Mary Magdalene, a first century Jewish site and Christian pilgrim center. She has obtained degrees in Special Education from Western Illinois University, Pastoral and Religious studies from Regina Apostolorum in Rome, a Masters degree in Theology from Catholic Distance University in Virginia, a Masters in Ignatian Spirituality from the Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, Spain and has studies in the Masters in the Mystics from CITeS and the Catholic University in Avila, Spain.
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This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the priestly vocation in light of Christ’s threefold office as King, Prophet, and Priest. Drawing from Scripture, Vatican II, the Catechism, and the writings of St. John Paul II, O Connor blends theology with lived parish experience. This guide equips seminarians, clergy, and lay leaders to shepherd, teach, and sanctify God’s people with wisdom and pastoral charity.
Paperback: $34.95 | Kindle: $9.99
“Pastoral Lessons: A Study in Pastoral Theology, Theory and Practice by Fr. Richard O’Connor is a well-constructed book for the pastoral formation of both priests and the laity. This is a comprehensive yet practical guide to the cooperation necessary in the parish to move the shepherds and the sheep toward the Kingdom of God. Grounded in the doctrines of the Church while being within reach of those without advanced degrees, this magnificent work speaks to all of us, priests, married couples, families, single parishioners, as we, in our varied but connected roles, share in the pastoral work of parish life.” – Kiki Latimer, author of Home for the Homily: The Sacred Art of Homiletics
“Fr. O Connor’s Pastoral Lessons masterfully bridges theology and lived ministry. With clarity and depth, he offers a timeless guide for priests and lay leaders seeking to shepherd God’s people with wisdom, faith, and pastoral charity.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism
Fr Richard O Connor, D.D., is an Irish priest, ordained in 1976, who worked in the diocese of Kerry for many years. He was also head of philosophy in All Hallows Seminary in Dublin from 1981-1983 and has been a professor of theology at the Angelicum University in Rome from 2008 to the present.
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“I am happy to endorse Eric Gilhooly’s book To a Younger Brother. In an easy-to-read style, it offers practical wisdom to men in the earlier years of formation. Born of his own spiritual journey and with the love of a wise older brother, Eric shares real-life insights to encourage others as they seek to know the Lord’s will and prepare for ordination. This book would also be an excellent resource for someone considering the priesthood or religious life.” – Most Reverend Robert J. Fisher, Auxiliary Bishop of Detroit, Michigan
“Even challenging journeys can be found enjoyable when there is a good companion to guide you – someone who knows the struggles and the pitfalls along the way – and the journey of seminary formation is no exception. Through sharing his own reflections on his years in formation, Father Gilhooly is this welcome companion. A helpful ‘older brother’ to any seminarian, he provides insights in this book that are both wise and relatable.” – Deacon Paul Gardner, Fourth-Year Seminarian Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri
Eric Gilhooly was born on August 12, 1986, in Syracuse, New York. He entered the minor seminary in 1999. His major seminary formation took him to Ireland, Connecticut, and Rome. He studied in the Pontifical Athenum Regina Apostolorum, where he obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degree in philosophy as well as his bachelor’s degree in theology. He was ordained to the diaconate in Syracuse on May 19, 2018, and was sent to Bogotá, Colombia to begin his ministry. He was ordained a priest on May 4, 2019.
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All proceeds support the mission trips to Jamaica.
This book recounts the founding of a grassroots nonprofit delivering health services to underserved Jamaican communities, beginning in Mount Prospect. Sparked by Mahfood’s nursing career and deep family ties, the organization launched a health fair in June 2025 despite major funding and logistical challenges. Through faith, volunteers, and community support, Miadibes Cares provided screenings, supplies, and education. The book offers both inspiration and a practical guide for replicating the effort, aiming to expand care and advocacy in rural Jamaica.
Paperback $14.95 | Kindle $9.99
“Miadibes Cares is a radiant witness to faith in action. Kelly Mahfood’s mission embodies the Gospel call to serve the least among us with dignity and compassion. This inspiring journey from vision to impact is a masterclass in perseverance, love, and community upliftment. It deserves our full support and prayers.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Archbishop Richard Henning of Missionary Priests in the Homeland: Our Call to Receive
Kelly Mahfood is a seasoned nurse, dedicated caregiver, and the passionate founder of Miadibes Cares, a nonprofit organization devoted to improving healthcare access in underserved communities—starting with her beloved Jamaica in the town her grandmother resides, Mount Prospect.
With over 25 years of experience in nursing, Kelly has worked across various healthcare settings, bringing compassion, leadership, and a strong sense of purpose to every role. Her deep roots in Maryland, New York, Georgia and Jamaica inspired her to launch Miadibes Cares, blending her clinical expertise with a lifelong mission of service.
Kelly is more than a nurse, she’s a visionary. Her commitment to uplifting others through health, education, and community empowerment came to life during the Miadibes Cares inaugural mission trip to Mount Prospect, Jamaica in June 2025. This book is a reflection of that journey: the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the powerful connections made along the way.
When she’s not coordinating health fairs or mentoring future healthcare leaders, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family, tackling one of her many DIY projects, traveling, and dreaming up new ways to serve those who need it most.
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In this inspiring and deeply personal guide, Catholic priest Benjamin Bala explores the transformative journey of self-mastery. Rooted in Scripture, Church teaching, and practical wisdom, Bala challenges readers to confront their weaknesses, embrace personal responsibility, and pursue the perfection to which Christ calls us. A powerful companion for anyone seeking true spiritual and moral growth.
Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99
“Fr. Bala’s book speaks of one of the most challenging undertakings of our life, yet one that is essential for our own wellbeing – the journey towards self-mastery. The author coaches us, in very practical ways, to see within ourselves, to confront the obstacles that hold us back, and to embrace God’s grace to conquer the inclinations of our human weaknesses. Throughout, we are encouraged to remain positive, trusting in Christ with whom everything is possible. In this book, Fr Bala shares with us his own journey and he brings to life many verses in Scripture that provide us insights and encouragement offered by the word of God. If you are open to the idea of your own journey towards self-mastery, this is the guide for you.” – Deacon Bob Evans, Popular Christian author and teacher of Scripture, USA
“Benjamin Bala’s moving and inspiring piece speaks of ‘self-mastery’ as ‘self-conquest.’ The moral values he encapsulates in his book match the realities of human life. Human beings, by creation and by grace, have been provided with the means to subdue and control creation (cf. Gen. 1: 28-30) beginning with oneself. Thus, the piece is an invaluable guide for all who would wish to embark on the courageous journey to self-mastery.” – Sr. Mary Jane Aririguzo, IHM, Canon Law Lecturer, Catholic Institute of West Africa, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
“This book of 40 chapters is symbolic. In the Bible, the number 40 is associated with significant landmarks – two contextually cognate ones being the periods of the journey of the Israelites to the Promised Land and Jesus’ fast. Each ended in something profound. Navigating through this book as another journey to something profound – a voyage of self-mastery. I have read this book by my mentor, and it has been a strong pillar for me especially here at Harvard where it has helped me navigate seamlessly many otherwise tough moral hills. I recommend it to all who seek life’s most important victory – self-conquest. It is a keepsake!” – Zakka Junior Emmanuel, Student of Religion, Ethics and Politics, Harvard Divinity School, Massachusetts, USA
“I read through this masterpiece by Fr. Bala, at a period I was plagued with numerous struggles and life challenges; a time when my choicest reactions to life challenges pulled me down emotionally, and I was thrown into wonder how some people manage life, unperturbed by this similar challenges of life. With the insights provided herein, I saw the need and practical means of self-improvement, taking back control of myself and making the best version of myself. In this well-written, practical, and scripturally based book on what self-mastery is, and how to start, progress and sustain the struggle, I learned a lot and it has become a handy tool for me as I continue my journey of self-improvement. I recommend this book to everyone from all spheres of life and age. I trust and believe in the efficiency of the help it offers.” – Engr. Rosemary Itoro John, Port Harcourt Refinery, Nigeria
“Fr Benjamin Bala takes on the bold subject of “self-mastery”. The book challenges us to key into our God given capacity to subdue our weaknesses, tame our excesses and subject ourselves to the disciplines that guide us toward perfection. He elaborates on the realization of our need for self-mastery, capacity to strive for self-mastery and the understanding that God’s abundant Grace is available for those determined for the struggle. He takes on the subject matter in an easy to understand and non-judgmental manner, places precept upon precept, while keeping his audience engrossed with the subject, until a firm desire is knotted to put into practice the ideas elaborated in this beautiful piece. If you desire to explore your full potentials as designed by God, this book is definitely a sure guide.” – Dr Swandy Banta, Public Servant, Emotional Intelligence Scholar, and Humanitarian Worker, Jos, Nigeria
“The author, Fr. Benjamin Bala, is a Moral Theologian per excellence. In a simple, clear, and lucid manner, he presents one of the most difficult tasks of human enterprise: The Journey Towards Self-Mastery. The book in your hands is written in a conversational and engaging way, inviting readers to participate actively in their own journey personal of growth. The path to self-mastery, he says, is a process, whereby we gradually release the mind from all limited ideas, beliefs, paradigms, and assumptions that spring from the material world. He has his own personal stories to show how to achieve this. His use of the Bible and Church Teachings prove just how knowledgeable Fr. Benjamin is in his chosen field. This book is a distinctive framework to address this important aspect of human life. It is a must read.” – Fr. Williams Abba, Former Dean of Academics, St Albert Institute, Fadan Kagoma, Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, Nigeria
“In this excellent book written by an erudite writer, Fr. Benjamin Yakubu Bala, the reader is set to encounter an intellectual masterpiece laced in philosophy that is anchored in biblical perspectives. Anyone who has ever been in doubt on how to tread the dialectics of self-mastery, shall find in Journeying Towards Self-Mastery, all the necessary ingredients needed in developing the ideal man. I recommend this book to those committed to crawling out of their uninspiring past into mastering themselves in a world enmeshed in confusion and pressure of daily living.” – MUSA, Simon Reef, Journalist, Columnist, LEADERSHIP Newspapers, Nigeria
Fr. Benjamin Yakubu Bala is a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Kafanchan in Kaduna State, Nigeria. He has a PhD in Moral Theology and teaches at the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) in Port Harcourt. His main focus is defending human life, promoting family values, and addressing moral issues in society. He has written several articles in both local and international journals.
He is also the author of Self-defence: Permissibility and Legitimacy (2020, St. Paul’s Publications), a book that explains every person’s right—and responsibility—to protect their life using morally acceptable means, based on both natural and divine law.
Fr. Bala has led retreats for future priests and lay groups, and has spoken at many conferences and workshops. In 2023, he gave the keynote talk at the General Assembly of his home diocese. He has worked in schools and parishes in Kafanchan and helped in Port Harcourt parishes while studying. He also has experience offering counseling, both in and out of the confessional, and previously served as Education Secretary for the Diocese of Kafanchan.
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