All Christians are called to be saints. According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, saints are persons in heaven (officially canonized or not), who lived heroically virtuous lives, offered their life for others or were martyred for the faith and who are worthy of imitation. In honor of All Saints Day, the holy day of obligation that falls on November 1, here are some books to further your understanding of the saints.
Saint of the Day: The Definitive Guide to the Saints, by Leonard Foley, O.F.M. The book’s introduction states: “The stories of saints reaffirm that holiness is not restricted by age, sex, nationality, geography or time in which a person lives. Saints represent almost every occupation and family background. Holy women and men use their diverse, God-given talents by witnessing in their unique way to God’s compassionate love; there are no clones among the saints.”
Making Sense of Saints: Fascinating Facts About Relics, Patrons, Canonization and More, by Patricia Ann Kasten. Everything you always wanted to know about saints—and some things you didn’t know you wanted to know—all in this fun and handy book that is perfect for families, teachers, catechists and everyone hoping to grow in their faith with the help of these holy hall-of-famers!
Patron Saints: Saints for Every Member of Your Family, Every Profession, Every Ailment, Every Emergency, and Even Every Amusement, by Thomas J. Craughwell. Authoritative, wide-ranging, informative, entertaining and full of surprises, Patron Saints will help make the saints part of your everyday life. It’s ideal for Confirmation candidates who are trying to choose a new name.
To borrow these or other resources, the diocesan library and Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry are open for in-person visits and consultations 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. You may also visit the library online. Once you make your selections, you can email the request to mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org.
