“Only God knows the good that can come about by reading one good Catholic book.” – St. John Bosco” (Quotes)
As summer begins, how might you keep your children and even yourselves learning through the different months of summer? The MCMS library reading program that my family always participates in is an easy and good way to keep them learning. My kids love to have new books to read, and it keeps them learning in a fun, less “work-like” way by reading books that are not required for literature or school learning. They enjoy logging in their reading minutes and seeing how long they have read for.
This summer I am going to add a challenge to their summer reading – to pick some books that help them grow in their faith!
Many of the saints changed the course of their lives through spiritual reading of the Bible or even other saint’s lives. Reading opens our minds and our hearts to new ideas and can touch our souls in a unique way. It captures our imagination and guides us to other worlds.
Here are a few places where you can find a great list of recommended books:
- https://www.teachingcatholickids.com/best-books-for-catholic-families/
- https://www.elizabethclareblog.com/must-reads-for-young-catholics/
- https://www.looktohimandberadiant.com/2019/08/catholic-book-list.html
These lists are long, so please don’t break the bank buying too many books. Look for some at the library or pick out a few for birthday or other holiday gifts. Exchange books with a friend as another possible way to add good spiritual literature at home.
Find one that is appropriate for your child’s level or select books that can be read aloud as a family. These books will inspire you and your children.
If your child prefers to listen to books and take a break from reading, there are many great audio books to listen too. One of our favorite audio book is “The King of the Golden City” that you can listen to for free (https://librivox.org/the-king-of-the-golden-city-by-mother-mary-loyola).
“Don’t neglect your spiritual reading. – Reading has made many saints.”
– St Josemaria Escriva (Quotes)
Not related to reading but to summer, sign your kids up for Vacation Bible School this week before it is too late to register. Kids going into PreK – 5th grade can attend while spaces remain. VBS is a great way to kick off some summer faith learning with Bible Stories, Imagination Station, Adoration, games, snacks, and lots of fun!
May your summer have moments of relaxation, lots of family time, and intentional learning about the faith! Have a blessed summer!
References:
Quotes retrieved from https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/spiritual-reading.html
Author: Laura Stephens, FF Sacrament Preparation Catechist
