Training the Tongue and Growing Beyond Sins of Speech

by Fr. Gregory Pine O.P.

Genres: Faith, Catholic, Nonfiction, Christianity, Theology

176 pages, Paperback

Published February 6, 2026

Reviews

[sofia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll be returning to this book again as I aim to implement its wonderful and practical instruction in my life. If you are someone who often comes away from conversations slightly mortified, thinking, “What on earth compelled me to say that?” or even, “Why didn’t I speak up?” in the face of falsehood or vicious talk—then Training the Tongue is for you.

Fr. Pine offers a deeply informed approach to cultivating a holy and healthy verbal culture in our speech, always ordered toward the ultimate goal of communion. The book is teeming with accessible and profoundly encouraging nuggets of wisdom for anyone who knows they often fall short of virtue in speech.

I might be biased because I think at this point I can claim the title of being Fr. Gregory Pine’s biggest fan, but I wholeheartedly recommend this book.

[Claire Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is so clearly Dominican. I love the Dominicans, but I just don't think this style of writing is for me. I kinda felt like I was reading an essay? It was great content, don't get me wrong, but I just kept getting bored. I think I was also expecting something less direct (?) and maybe something more engaging of the heart. I'd still recommend it as a read but meh

[Anna Wall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read a lot of religious books, but this is one I will remember forever. It had me highlighting with almost every section, which reminds me of the same way I read “Searching for and Maintaining Peace”. Such simple advice, but truly so powerful to hear. I am excited for a fresh outlook on how to continue to grow in virtue, especially with my words!

[Daniel Massett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. It's like if St. Thomas Aquinas wrote a self help book. A deep dive in how and why to speak and listen better

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the past few years, I’ve struggled to examine my conscience for sins of speech, because I did not have a clear idea of what actually constitutes gossip or detracting. Fr Gregory not only clarified my understanding of these sins, but also encouraged and inspired me to view speech as beautiful and noble. The book covers conversation, truth-telling, teaching, correction, humor, and prayer, and Fr Gregory gives a complete picture of the virtues required and what’s at stake. This book was released YESTERDAY which should tell you how readable I’ve found it. Highly recommend!

[Nghia Tran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provide such insightful and practical information on how we can grow in the virtue of speech. Fr. Gregory Pine did an amazing job breaking down abstract concepts that is valuable for all audiences and connecting it back to God and communion with one another. I believe this book is an effective and cool way to evangelize the Catholic faith! I highly recommend reading this, I was looking forward to reading this after reading's Fr. Pine's book about Prudence and he exceeded my expectations!

[cam_omile]

read to review for a campus publication

[Peyton Long · Rating 4 out of 5]

A skillfully crafted work that offers both guidance and encouragement to those seeking improvement. I found it both instructive and uplifting.

[Gaby Borchers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exactly what I needed to wrap up Lent. So happy I chose it & took my time to sit with it. I can’t wait to recommend it to my friends!

[Timmy Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I disagree with some of the theological presuppositions and conclusions, but there are some really good thoughts here