Catholic All Week

The lazy days of summer are the perfect time to catch up on your reading list, whether you are sitting on the sand or sheltering in air-conditioned comfort. Rather than settling for a pop culture title that might not reflect religious values, why not dig into the works of a Christian author? Here are a few well-known 20th-century authors and the ideal “gateway” work to help you see the world – and faith – through their eyes.

Hilaire Belloc

Hilaire Belloc is widely known for his famous quote: “Wherever the Catholic sun doth shine, there’s always laughter and good red wine.” The orator, political activist, essayist and poet wrote more than 150 books. His versatility as a writer and lively sense of humor make him a pleasure to read. “The Path to Rome” is a travelog about walking from France to Rome to reaffirm his faith that blends anecdotes, philosophy and reflection with humor. His children’s verses, including “The Bad Child’s Book of Beasts and Cautionary Tales” may remind you of Roald Dahl or the Lemony Snicket stories.

J.R.R. Tolkien

J.R.R. Tolkien is often called the father of modern fantasy, but his worldview was rooted in his Catholic faith and he regarded the story of salvation as the greatest tale ever told. His hobby of inventing languages and accompanying myths gradually led to the epic adventures of “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” To dive into a shorter work by Tolkien, read his essay “On Fairy Stories,” which gives insights into his philosophy on fantasy. “Leaf by Niggle” is a short allegory about life and redemption that explores the bond between an artist and God.

C.S. Lewis

C.S. Lewis was a reluctant Christian convert – conversations with his friend, J.R.R. Tolkein, brought him to the faith – who experts say has arguably done more to explain Christianity than any other modern author. Lewis understands the human condition. No matter the audience, from children to those who share his initial skepticism, he is able to find the perfect example to illustrate his point. His classic “The Chronicles of Narnia,” is worth re-reading at any age, while his science fiction trilogy for adults, which begins with “Out of the Silent Planet,” takes theological underpinnings into outer space. A less well-known story is “The Great Divorce,” which is about a bus ride from hell to heaven that is both inspirational and enlightening.

Catholic All Week

From the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, where he moved to enjoy a period of rest, Pope Leo invited Catholics on July 12 to follow his lead and make time for quiet and prayer during the busy summer months. Here are a few creative ways to savor the season while you bolster your faith.

Grab the good book

In his remarks, Pope Leo encouraged people to spend some time with Scripture. “Let us therefore resolve, especially during these summer days of vacation, to make room for listening to, reading and meditating on the word of God, thereby fostering – together with rest and wholesome recreation – meaningful moments of silence and prayer,” he said. Whether you do so by reading the Bible, listening to a favorite podcast (we have listed a few on our website) or spending some time meditating in Eucharistic Adoration, invest in your spiritual growth.

Retreat into nature

There are few better ways to enjoy silence than by disconnecting and getting away. Whether your preferred setting is a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a beach escape, hiking at a local park or exploring the campuses of Belmont Abbey or the Catholic Conference Center in Hickory, take time to reflect on the beauty of God’s creation.

Have a sweet treat

Did you know there was a gelato flavor created for Pope Leo? World champion Italian gelato maker Eugenio Morrone created a Roman hazelnut cheesecake gelato featuring Chicago-style cheesecake (in honor of the pope’s hometown), Roman hazelnuts (for the seat of the papacy) and a passion fruit and mango sauce (that nods to his time as a missionary). While a trip to Rome may not be on your calendar, a visit to a local ice cream parlor can make late summer a bit sweeter – and cooler.

Catholic All Week

Celebrations of the Fourth of July will be more spirited this year as our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Amid the picnics and fireworks, take some time to reflect on one of the greatest birthday gifts in history – aside from the gift of Jesus to humanity at Christmas – the enduring legacy of freedom. (See Bishop Michael Martin’s column here.) Here are a few ways to celebrate America and learn more about its history from a Catholic perspective.

Act as Jesus’ disciples

The USCCB also has created a “250 Works of Mercy” initiative to encourage people to participate in parish and community programs. “Our works of mercy draw from the deep well of our faith and prayer, constantly reminding us that in tending to our brothers and sisters, we tend to Christ Himself,” the USCCB said. Works of mercy include concrete acts such as assisting women who face a crisis pregnancy, donating to food pantries or tutoring children. For ideas about how to participate locally through Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte, read more here.

Pray for our nation

The USCCB is encouraging Catholics to take part in “250 Hours of Adoration.” Parishes across the country offered Holy Hours leading up to the June 11 consecration of the country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. However, the need to spend some time in prayer for our country with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament didn’t end with the consecration. Catholics can still pray for unity and healing by using the prayers and readings from the USCCB during their own adoration hours.

We hold these truths

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has compiled on its website (www.usccb.org) a series of videos, podcasts and articles highlighting the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country. From the founding of the country to the dehumanizing treatment endured by Black and Indigenous peoples to the waves of immigration that have shaped the nation and the lasting impact of religious sisters on our medical institutions, learn more about the role of Catholicism.