very summer I spend a significant amount of time previewing potential books for Christmas. For me this book is more than just a simple gift to each one of you - it’s an invitation to come closer to our Lord.
With this year focused on Eucharistic Revival I wanted a book that would bring us to a greater understanding of Eucharist. As I previewed this book, I found humor, honesty, and an authentic faith-filled voice. This voice gives us simple examples, and a depth of faith. Many of the other books I was reading were either too cerebral or too simplistic. This book gave me depth in the midst of the simple things of every day life. I knew this was the book I wanted to give this Christmas!
I was excited to share this book with our community, but there was one problem… cost. Each year I am faced with varying degrees of this issue, and this year was no exception. Once again the cost was prohibitive. I was sad, but moved on to preview other books. People know I do this, so it’s common to be asked how my search is going. I lamented that the book I really wanted was out of my price range and I was struggling to find something I thought would be a good substitution. This would not be the first year I had to go with a “second choice” due to cost. When I’ve had to do that in the past I am the only who knows the “perfect” book was just out of reach. In the end no matter which book I pick there will be those who love it, and those who don’t, but again this is more than just a book to me, it’s an invitation for you (the receiver) to deepen your faith.
As I said, people asked me about the Christmas book, and I lamented. One Saturday morning I was out running errands and received a phone call asking if I was given X amount of dollars would that be enough to give away the book I desired. YES! And thus I was able to stop lamenting, and instead praise the Lord for the amazing gift that allowed us to share with you “Living with Real Presence: Eucharist as an Approach to Life” by S. James Meyer. A huge thank you to our anonymous donor!
I pray that this book opens your heart and mind to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Eucharist in the days ahead.
Please feel free to respond to this blog, on our Facebook, or even just email me to share your journey as you read along with us!
- Patty Mayer