Benedict XVI Books

Don't let Benedict XVI's intellect and knowledge of theology keep you away from his writings. He is masterful when it comes to making the sublime and the complex simple and easy to understand. The former pope has a way of explaining even the deepest theology so that it comes across in knowable and applicable terms for daily living. 

His books range in scope, topic, and style. My first book written by Benedict XVI was the gorgeous Benedictus: Day by Day with Pope Benedict. The book is beautiful, the writing simple and direct. There's joy simply in picking up the book, opening to the page bookmarked by the included ribbon, and gazing upon the accompanying photographs. 

The full scope of these three books ranges from the birth of Christ to His death and resurrection. Benedict began with Jesus's public ministry, then in the second book he moved into the Holy Week with Christ's entrance into Jerusalem and ending with his death on the cross and his resurrection. Finally, Benedict considers Jesus as a babe born in a manger. 

These books can easily be read over the course of a year. The infancy narratives and the volume dedicated to the Holy Week easily function as meditative reading for Advent and Lent seasons. 

The books are perfect for the modern reader. They are slim in volume but not in content. Easy to carry, easy to read, they make a great addition to anyone's spiritual library. 

Because I'm so new to the Catholic faith, I have a deep desire to learn and understand more. That is one reason why I've opted to choose Benedict XVI as a major reading project. I truly can't think of anyone more relevant today with a greater understanding of living the faith in modern times. 

Luckily, he's written a lot of books. My aim is not to read his work in chronological order but to go where I'm inclined. I'll post my reflections and reactions in any one of a number of places. 

To chronicle my journey, I've created Being Catholic day by day. I hope you'll stop by, say hello, and return to read my reviews, mediations, and reflections.