For Catholic moms, life makes many demands – domestically, relationally, and spiritually. The charge of cultivating a home and guiding precious souls on the path to adulthood is no easy undertaking, but it is profoundly worthy. In today’s Basilica Book Club post, we explore five books for Catholic moms, covering a variety of topics from the practical to the spiritual.
1. St. Monica: The Power of a Mother’s Love
Known as the patron saint of mothers, St. Monica not only raised three children on her own after being widowed, but was instrumental in the conversion of one of the most prominent philosophers of all time: St. Augustine, her son.
Using extensive excerpts from the writings of St. Augustine, notably from his Confessions, Giovanni Falbo sheds new light on Monica’s patience, sweetness, and unwavering determination. She never yielded in her efforts to see her beloved son find comfort and peace in God, and made countless sacrifices in her quest to help Augustine embrace the faith. Monica’s quiet wisdom and courage, coupled with her earnest tears and prayers to God, bore fruit she could only have dreamed of.
2. The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers
Mothers are expected to do it all: raise superstar kids, look great, make good salaries, keep an immaculate house, be the perfect wife. In this rallying cry for change, Meg Meeker, M.D., uses her 25 years of experience as a practicing pediatrician and counselor to show why mothers suffer from the rising pressure to excel and the toll it takes on their emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual health. Complete with an all-new tool kit of wellness tips and exercises, Dr. Meeker’s book reveals the 10 most positive and impactful habits of healthy, happy mothers. By implementing Dr. Meeker’s key strategies, you can be happy while teaching your children to be the best they can be.
3. Centering Prayers for Women
Motherhood can often be chaotic and exhausting – both physically and emotionally. Amidst the busyness and noise of modern life, Centering Prayers for Women provides a moment of deep quiet, inviting you to draw closer to the love of God. This collection of 365 daily prayers for moments of silence and meditation is now available in a beautiful new edition made especially for women. Structured by the natural seasons of the year, this book offers simple daily devotions ideal for centering your heart at the beginning or end of the day. Whether you’re seeking a personal retreat or communal prayer, Centering Prayers for Women is an invaluable resource.
4. How to Raise Good Catholic Children
In How to Raise Good Catholic Children, author Mary Reed Newland draws on her own experience as the mother of seven to show how the classic Christian principles of sanctity can be understood by children. First published 50 years ago, this book presents practical parenting advice in an accessible way. Mrs. Newland provides guidance on how to introduce even your littlest ones to God and cultivate virtue in all your children, with sections on teaching the habits of regular prayer, the dignity of work, an understanding of purity, and more.
5. Theology of Home
Written by three wives and mothers, Theology of Home is a simple guide to help reorient you toward your true home. Featuring more than 100 photographs from homes around the country and penetrating insights on the theological and spiritual underpinnings of our love for Home, Theology of Home offers readers a tour of both the home and the human heart.
In addition to its lovely photos and décor ideas, this book also will show you how to create a deeper sense of the divine through:
- Creating a welcoming environment
- Fostering a sense of remembrance through images, scents, and activities
- Making your home a place for joyful gatherings and spiritual growth through an emphasis on light
- Prioritizing family dinners to feed the body and the soul
- Opening your home to those around you and spreading the joy and peace of Christ with your hospitality
- And much more!
Discover how beauty and order can bring the eternal to your everyday routine with Theology of Home.
*Book descriptions adapted in part from their respective publishers.
Looking for more book recommendations?
There’s always more to read! In the inaugural post of our Basilica Book Club series, we discuss five iconic works of literature every Catholic should read – from the writings of philosophical giants St. Augustine and St. Aquinas, to beloved mystic reflections like The Dark Night of the Soul.