In this new series of "little books" you will learn how to grasp the meaning of ancient ways of praying in a relatively short amount of time. In Praying with the Saints, a popular Catholic author (The Pope Who Quit) explains the origin of saints, how to recognize one, and the most time-tested ways of praying with them in order to enrich your spiritual life.
Jon M. Sweeney is an independent scholar and writer of popular history. He is married, the father of three, and lives in Montpelier, Vermont. He has worked in book publishing for 25 years: after co-founding SkyLight Paths Publishing, he was the editor in chief and publisher at Paraclete Press, and in August 2015 became editorial director at Franciscan Media Books.
He has written more than 20 books, seven about Francis of Assisi, including "When Saint Francis Saved the Church" and "The Complete Francis of Assisi." HBO has optioned the film rights to "The Pope Who Quit."
Jon's first 20 years were spent as an involved evangelical (a story told in the memoir "Born Again and Again"); he then spent 22 years as an active Episcopalian (see "Almost Catholic," among others); and on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi in 2009 he was received into the Catholic Church. Today, Jon is a practicing Catholic who also prays regularly with his wife, a rabbi. He loves the church, the synagogue, and other aspects of organized religion. He would never say that he's "spiritual but not religious."
In all of his writing, Jon is drawn to the ancient and medieval (see "The Road to Assisi," and "Inventing Hell"). Many of his books have been selections of the History Book Club, Book-of-the-Month Club, and Quality Paperback Book Club.
Lovely short sweet book about saints. Historical & ecumenical perspectives. Famous & lesser known saints. How to create a prayerful experience with saints.
I like little books like this. First, because it is easy to read and feel accomplished. Second, because it is easy to read and still learn something. A couple things I enjoyed, for my notes, St. Zeno and the few prayers given. I expected more prayer directions but I know that can get dangerous and cumbersome. (“dangerous” because people can get down on themselves expecting there is a right way to pray when it is only a need to pray). (Probably 8/26/2018)
Addendum 12/14/2021: I can also forget I’ve read this. Liking it as much the second time.