Pope John Paul II once said that art “translate[s] into meaningful terms that which is in itself ineffable.”
Sometimes, images speak to the heart in ways more profound than words. They may convey all at once what a dozen essays and speeches could not express. They are powerful not only in shaping our understanding of the world around us, but of the mysteries of our faith.
In this Basilica Book Club post, we invite you to discover four books with powerful imagery exploring sacred art, architecture, historic artifacts, and more.
The Story of Our Salvation in Art
Take a biblical journey through salvation history with 40 artistic masterpieces from greats such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, Rubens, Murillo, Rembrandt, and others. This eclectic collection spans artistic trends across the ages, presenting high-quality renderings of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries showcasing various techniques. Together, authors Sophie and Delphine Mouquin provide spiritual and artistic commentaries to reveal the great things the Mighty has done for us (cf. Lk 1:49).
A History of the Church in 100 Objects
Written in response to the New York Times bestseller A History of the World in 100 Objects, this book was designed to tell the story of Christianity in a uniquely tangible way.
By taking a close look at 100 objects and places – from the Star of Bethlehem to the Wittenberg Door, EWTN host Mike Aquilina and his daughter Grace unpack the story of Christianity and how it has transformed the world over the course of human history. Together, they reveal how the history of the Church didn’t take place shrouded in the mists of time; its traces are evident in tangible objects.
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.
How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture
This little primer is a must-have for any architecture or history buffs, tourists, or churchgoers interested in decoding the styles and symbols of religious buildings. Every building contains clues in its design that identify not only its architectural style but also who designed it, what kind of congregation it was built for, and why. This practical yet charming handbook is the key to decoding the style, history, evolution, and social significance of religious buildings. Not strictly limited to churches, it also covers abbeys, chapels, and monasteries, among other structures, featuring period engravings and line drawings for each entry.
*Book descriptions adapted in part from their respective publishers.
Looking for more book recommendations?
In our previous Basilica Book Club post, we invite you to discover three books that tell the incredible stories of Catholic heroes across the ages.
