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.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
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.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
“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.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
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.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
Wendy Forest presenting Currents of Water at the Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, July 20, 2025
Currents of Water is a deeply personal and spiritual reflection on grief, faith, and healing. Following her husband’s death, the author embarks on a transformative journey, rediscovering her Christian faith and ultimately converting to Catholicism. Through devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, she finds comfort, strength, and renewed purpose. The book intertwines personal experiences with scriptural reflections, Catholic traditions, and historical perspectives on Mary’s role, offering a heartfelt guide for widows and others navigating loss through faith.
Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99
“Currents of Water is a beautifully written, deeply moving journey of grief, faith, and healing. A must-read for anyone seeking comfort and spiritual renewal through devotion to Mary.” — Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism: A Framework for the Refutation of Atheism and the Evangelization of Atheists
“Currents of Water is a beautifully written poignant spiritual book. Get it for yourself if you are a widow and for other widows.” – Dr. Ronda Chervin, Catholic philosophy professor, TV presenter and author of many books
“As a widow I have read many books by widows about their journey. I can honestly say Currents of Water is one of the best! A beautiful story of faith, healing and hope.” – Pam Bates, co-author The Most Amazing Harvest – The Man Behind the Story, Founder Braving Widowhood ministry.
“Currents of Water is a beautifully written journey of faith. The author’s honest, vulnerable and creative story is inspirational.” – Paula Patty, Co-Author The Most Amazing Harvest – The Man Behind the Story and Missionary in Spirit
“A heartfelt rendering of a Christian woman’s spiritual journey from grief and dislocation to hope and healing. What spoke to me was the affinity that bloomed within Ms. Forest, mother and widow, for the Virgin Mary, mother and widow.” – Jim Swinehart, Co-Founder of the Western Springs Writers Society
After losing her husband to cancer, Wendy Forest embarked upon a journey with an external itinerary full of challenges, changes, and new directions. In her spiritual journey with Jesus and Mary, she found peace and hope.
Ms. Forest now enjoys accompanying widows on their journey, Parish ministries, time with family and friends, and travel.
May every widow find her new destination.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
In a world that often equates fulfillment with marriage and family, Going Solo: Encouraging Single Catholics offers a refreshing and faith-centered perspective on the joys, challenges, and spiritual purpose of living as a dedicated single Catholic.
Drawing from her personal journey, Anne Stokes shares heartfelt reflections, scriptural insights, and practical wisdom to uplift those navigating life outside the traditional expectations of marriage.With warmth and honesty, she explores themes of faith, purpose, loneliness, and devotion, providing encouragement for those who have chosen—by circumstance or by calling—to embrace a life of singleness in Christ.
Through a combination of theological discussion and real-life experiences, Stokes challenges the notion that singleness is a lesser path. Instead, she illuminates how this unique vocation can lead to a deeper relationship with God, a richer understanding of self-worth, and a fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
Whether you are single by choice, waiting for God’s plan to unfold, or seeking to understand the single life from a faith perspective, Going Solo serves as an inspiring guide to finding contentment, strength, and spiritual fulfillment in every season of life.
Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99
“Going Solo is a heartfelt and inspiring guide for single Catholics seeking purpose and faith. Anne Stokes beautifully affirms that a dedicated single life is a path of joy, strength, and spiritual fulfillment.” — Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism: A Framework for the Refutation of Atheism and the Evangelization of Atheists
Anne Stokes is a retired Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Finance Executive turned free-lance writer. She has written over eighty articles for Catholic365.com and is the author of Will the Real Church Please Stand! and St. Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage: A Synopsis of His Complete Works by Anne Stokes (En Route Books and Media). She holds a BA (history) from California State University, Fullerton, CA, an MBA from the University of Redlands, Redlands, CA and a Master of Arts in Theology (concentration in Church History) from Holy Apostles College and Seminary, Cromwell, CT. Ms. Stokes is an adult convert to Roman Catholicism from Fundamentalist Baptist.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.