The Father’s Heart: Meet the Real Abba Father–Book One: 10 Spiritual Exercises to Heal from the Wounds of the Heart

by Terry Modica; foreword by Bear Woznick

TESTIMONIALS

“Terry Modica shares with you, in her ‘Father’s Heart’ series, springs of joy that will open and heal your heart as you meet and grow to know the ‘Real Abba Father.’” – from the “Foreword” by Bear Woznick, EWTN TV & Radio Host

“Terry, what a GREAT book — not only about your relationship with The Father but helping me to understand woundedness and how it can not only affect your life but those around you as well and your spiritual life, too. Each chapter is so amazing, so full of wisdom, especially in opening our eyes to our brokenness and how God loves us so much.  I have especially dealt with fear my whole life, but now I can see my woundedness through the eyes of God the Father loving me through it all.  I now can see through the eyes of my heart.  I have not known joy for 14 years since my husband died. I have felt so lonely. Now I just feel loved and so filled with joy and peace. Thank you, Terry!” – Carol Jones, a reader

“Recently, I realised that I needed to do something about my relationship with Father God. I remembered your book and I’ve now started it. It’s amazing and so helpful. I now call God my Daddy God. I’m only in the first part of the book but I’m so grateful that you listened to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to write this book. God bless you.” – Gráinne Burke (Ireland), a reader

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Curing and Healing: Vital Elements of Catholic Health Care

by Eric Manuel Torres

In this research, the significance of curing and healing will be explored with an emphasis on how both are vital to Catholic health care. This essay aims to show that only by embracing both components can health care professionals truly care for the whole person. Moreover, Christian health care professionals ought to follow Christ’s example in order to serve in His mission of caring holistically for those that are ill. As Luke’s account of the Haemorrhoissa (Lk 8:42-48) not only provides a vignette distinguishing between curing and healing, but also an excellent example of how Christ attended to both elements, this essay will interpret this story in order to gain insight into the indispensability of both to whole person Catholic health care. Further, examples extracted from palliative care, an area of health care where curing and healing can be clearly distinguished, will be used to illustrate these elements in practical terms.

Paperback: $12.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Crafted with scholarly exegetic style, yet pithy and approachable, this timely publication should be read by any health professional who gazes seriously upon their career and sees a vocation.” – Vanco Hristov BSc (Hons), GradDipPsych, PhD candidate, The University of Melbourne

“In Eric Manuel Torres’ book, Curing and Healing, there is a good discussion of this difference which, on the whole, turns on the difference between curing an ailment and healing the whole person, a difference very ably illustrated at the end of the book. Thus, implicitly, there is a growing possibility that genuine Catholic Healthcare offers a uniquely, ethically sound approach to many of life’s difficult health crises. Furthermore, the encompassing vision of the person which inspires and informs the vocation of Catholic Healthcare, draws as it does on ancient and modern wisdom, whether of Christ or His Church, philosophy and medicine, and so is ever ready to explore and to answer the question of meaning and, if necessary, the need for reconciliation before death. As Torres himself says so well: ‘finding meaning in illness is as core to healing as the skeletal system is to our bodies’ (p. 20).” – Francis Etheredge, Catholic married layman, father of 11, 3 of whom are in heaven and an author of 17 books on Amazon: https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/francisetheredge/.

“Torres has written a readable and cogently argued research essay. His conclusion that “healing…is multidimensional, and may include the physical yet not always” is sound. So is his general understanding of Catholic theology, especially of implications of the Incarnation, as applied to health care delivery.” – Rev. Dr. Bernard Teo, C.Ss.R., STD., Lecturer in Moral Theology at Yarra Theological Union/University of Divinity (Australia) and Te Kupenga – Catholic Theological College (New Zealand)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eric Manuel Torres is a Catholic moral theologian and bioethicist with a background in health care. Based in Melbourne, Australia, he has recently completed a doctorate (PhD) from Catholic Theological College/University of Divinity. He 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 and a Master of Theological Studies 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. Moreover, Dr. Torres has published a number of articles appearing in several scholarly publications including Homiletic and Pastoral Review and the Journal of Religion and Health.

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Don’t Plant Your Seeds Among Thorns: A Catholic’s Guide to Recognizing and Healing from Domestic Abuse

By Jenny duBay

In this book, Jenny duBay helps survivors of intimate partner violence identify their situation and begin to heal. With empathy and compassion, she covers such topics as what domestic abuse is, the trauma of sexual assault and coercion, verbal attacks and isolation, and the evils of manipulative control within intimate relationships. She also discusses details on what the Catholic Church teaches about personal dignity, sacramental marriages, and the nature of domestic abuse. Jenny reveals the impact intimate abuse has on targets, providing practical and Christ-centered ways to heal—no matter where a survivor may be on her journey.  

For those who have had to leave their relationships, Jenny discusses the annulment process and what it truly means—including the immense healing it can provide. For individuals who hope reconciliation can happen, she thoroughly and compassionately discusses the possibility of abusers changing their ways, helping readers determine what authentic repentance looks like—and when so-called repentance is just another abuse tactic. Whether you’re still married or have had to separate yourself from a toxic relationship, Don’t Plant Your Seeds Among Thorns helps you navigate trauma while providing resources and gentle guidance toward Christ-centered healing and empowerment of our true self, as God created you to be.

Paperback: $19.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jenny duBay is a trauma-informed Catholic life coach, certified Deconstructing Gaslighting Specialist (C-DGS), a certified narcissistic abuse specialist, and earned her B.A. in Catholic Theology from Holy Apostles College & Seminary and Catholic Distance University. In addition to her coaching ministry, Jenny is the foundress of Create Soul Space, a website designed to help cultivate awareness of domestic violence within a Catholic setting. Jenny is the domestic violence support group facilitator at Hope’s Garden, is associated with Catholics for Family Peace and works with various organizations within the Church to support survivors of domestic violence. Author of the Create Soul Space and Prodigal Parishioner blogs, Jenny also writes for Missio Dei along with various other Catholic publications including Dan Burke’s SpiritualDirection.com, Aleteia, and more. Her articles have been featured on the Catholic Education Resource Center and several have been awarded “Best of Catholic Blogging” by National Catholic Register. Her mission is to accompany Catholic women who have experienced domestic abuse or betrayal trauma so they can find healing, gain clarity and understanding, and reclaim their true selves. Her main website is https://jennydubay.com.  

(Photo credit: Brian Strickland)

OTHER PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Foundational Principles of a Disciple of Jesus

by Fr. Peter Samuel Kucer, MSA

These foundational principles were written with the intention of delineating how to be a faithful, healthy, charitable, and truthful disciple of Jesus. Each one is intended to be understood in relationship with the other principles from the perspective of our life of faith as each bead in a decade of the rosary is to be prayed in relationship to the other beads from the perspective of a mystery of faith. Practicing them is like putting “on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)

Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Fr. Peter Samuel Kucer, MSA, has produced quite a grand opus in his collection of works on Marian Devotion, Catholic Church History, East and South East Asian History, Catholic Apologetics, Protology and the Priesthood, Western Civilization, Political Science, and now foundational principles on discipleship. Each of his books provides wisdom for the beginner and clarity for the educated.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, author of The Narrative Spirituality of Dante’s Divine Comedy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Improving your Kids’ Body Image through Catholic Teaching: How Theology of the Body and Other Church Teachings Can Transform your Life

The Second Edition of Raising Kids with a Healthy Body Image: A Guide for Catholic Parents

by Dr. John C. Acquaviva

Improving your Kids’ Body Image through Catholic Teaching: How Theology of the Body and Other Church Teachings Can Transform your Life is the unique approach to the body image crisis that impacts many children. From a young age, our kids are under immense pressure from a variety of sources that can determine the value of their bodies. But God has something to say about this as well. Saint John Paul II’s wonderful teaching known as Theology of the Body is the book’s guiding force. Along with Scripture and the Church’s Sacraments, this book is an excellent parenting tool to guide your child so they see the worth of their bodies as designed by our Creator. In addition, this book discusses the numerous causes of a poor body image and includes chapters on how to instill fitness and sound nutrition into your family life.

Paperback $16.99 | Kindle $9.99

INTERVIEWS

Listen to “Episode 16: Cynthia Toolin-Wilson interviews John Acquaviva concerning his book Raising Kids with a Healthy Body Image (February 27, 2020)” on Spreaker. Ave Maria Radio’s Catholic Connection Interview with Teresa Tomeo on Improving Your Body through Catholic Teaching Listen to “John Acquaviva Interview concerning his book Improving Your Body Image Through Catholic Teaching (December 16, 2019)” on Spreaker.

Interview with Ken Huck on Radio Maria’s Meet the author. May 18, 2017.

REVIEWS

• Catholic Mom.Com from an anonymous mom
• Sports and Spirituality Part 1 (Dec. 6, 2017) and Part 2 (Dec. 9, 2017) from Annie Stricherz

News on the Book:

SueAnn Howell, “St. Matthew parishioner pens guide for Catholic parents on raising kids with a healthy body image,”

Videos about how Photoshopping works (from page 36)

About the Author’s Radio Program, now on Carolina Catholic Radio

TESTIMONIALS

“Building upon the timeless teachings of the Church, edified by saints and scripture, and penned from a practical parent’s perspective, Improving your Kids’ Body Image through Catholic Teaching is a great tool to help you raise happy, healthy and holy children. John C. Acquaviva takes on challenging topics with compassion and candor in a faith-filled yet totally accessible way. Stop shying away from the tough yet essential conversations and serve your family with an equipped and inspired perspective!”  – Lisa M. Hendey, Founder of CatholicMom.com and author of The Grace of Yes

“Rooted in the Truth of the Catholic Church, this inspiring book offers everything parents need to help their children become the body-confident people God created them to be. Using Saint Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, Scripture, and the teaching of the Church, this must-read will help you and your child navigate the minefield of body image pitfalls our culture perpetuates to rediscover the God’s purpose for their bodies–to glorify Him. Spiritual and practical, this edifying book belongs on every parent’s bookshelf.” – Kate Wicker, Journalist & Speaker Author of Weightless: Making Peace With Your Body

“There is an epidemic of distorted body image fed by popular culture and causing great distress among far too many of our sons and daughters. Dr. John Acquaviva delivers it a devastating one-two punch in his masterful melding of the findings of modern science with the timeless wisdom of the Catholic Church on the true dignity and importance of the human body in harmony with the soul. Every Catholic parent should read, re-read, and put to use Improving your Kids’ Body Image through Catholic Teaching. Indeed, every parent — period.” – Kevin Vost, Psy.D., author of Fit for Eternal Life and Memorize the Mass!

As a model and actor who travels speaking about his Catholic faith I am intimately familiar with the destructive lie the media feeds us daily about body image and the meaning the life. This book is a must-read for anyone raising children or those simply seeking to better understand how to navigate through this physically and spiritually dangerous culture war we find ourselves in. – Mario St. Francis Herrera, Model & Actor turned Lay Catholic Evangelist

Improving your Kids’ Body Image through Catholic Teaching is a book all parents need, whether they are Catholic or not. John C. Acquaviva goes right to the heart of the issues that can plague a young person with despair because of a negative body image. In a conversational tone, he sets us back on track with Catholic teaching and shows how to appreciate our bodies as the gifts that they are.” – Dr. Stacy Trasancos, Chair of the Science Department, Kolbe Academy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

John holds a PhD in exercise science and is a professor at Wingate University.

His courses include Anatomy & Physiology, Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Exercise Physiology, and Weight Loss, Weight Gain & Body Image.

Over the years, he has given hundreds of presentations to fitness professionals, prospective teachers, and Catholic Church adult congregations, youth groups, and campus ministries.

His other book, Improving Your Body Image Through Catholic Teaching, is currently available on Amazon.

Dr. Acquaviva resides in Matthews, NC, with his wife Alecia and three children, Clare, Luke and Abigail.

OTHER PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

The Art of Listening to Young People: A Pastoral and Scientific Guide

by Amoris Christi

Listening is a form of encounter that allows us to be with another person, to see through their eyes, and to journey with them. The Art of Listening to Young People uniquely blends extensive scientific research with pastoral experience and theology to provide guidance and inspiration for youth ministers, spiritual directors, formation advisors, therapists, and anyone else who desires to better accompany young people today.

Paperback: $20 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“The book’s cogent presentation of the importance of listening to the young, as an essential way of accompanying and leading them, manifests an attentive response to Pope Francis’s reflections on the education of children, where he says: ‘The real question, then, is … where [our children] are existentially, where they stand in terms of their convictions, goals, desires and dreams. The questions I would put to parents are these: ‘Do we seek to understand ‘where’ our children really are in their journey? Where is their soul, do we really know? And above all, do we want to know?” (Amoris Laetitia, 261; citing General Audience Catechesis, May 20, 2015)'” – Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio

“The Art of Listening to Young People is an integrated contribution, confidently grounded in the complementarity of faith and reason, which unites authentic Christian principles with astute practical wisdom, supported by scientific research. This work gives a refreshing perspective on encountering young people with compassion and clarity – committed to receiving another as a human person with dignity and facing the challenges of the times with the Gospel imperative to “Be not afraid!” For anyone ministering to young people, this piece serves as a most valuable guide in navigating the shadows of today’s culture with the bright light of truth and Christian charity – a most important topic for this age of the Church. It’s a deeply beneficial and encouraging read!” – Monsignor James P. Shea, President, The University of Mary

“‘I hear you.’ How often does this expression mask the reality that we have heard words with our ears but have not really listened to the person in front of us? The Art of Listening to Young People calls all who are called to accompany young people to understand them better and truly listen to what they are saying. Drawing from psychology and the social sciences as well as from great leaders of the Catholic tradition, the authors call us to care enough to make sure that it is obvious to young people that we are truly listening to them. While there are skills to learn, we are not presented with a recipe, but with good advice for improving in what is truly an art, as the title says. Thanks to Amoris Christi, a program that is expert in working with young people, for producing this great work.” – Fr. Alfredo I. Hernández, Rector/President, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, author of Formation Activities and Catholic Seminarians

“The book The Art of Listening to Young People is a profound helping hand and resource book for those who wish to accompany young people in one-on-one settings like mentoring, formation, spiritual direction or counseling.” – Bishop Joy Alappatt, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Chicago 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amoris Christi is a Catholic, nonprofit organization devoted to the formation of Christian leaders, based in Delray Beach, FL. It is an affiliate of Jesus Youth, which is an international Catholic movement of pontifical right. This book was authored by Amoris Christi’s multidisciplinary research wing, the Institute for Excellence.

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS