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5 Things with Father Bill: Hope, Humor, and Help for the Soul
2021 Illumination Book Awards, Gold Catholic
For almost a decade, popular priest and YouTube personality Fr. Bill Byrne wrote a column titled “5 Things” for his local church newspaper featuring five life hacks, prayer starters, or spiritual meditations to help readers grow closer to God and appreciate the small—but vital—things in life. Now, in a practical and engaging guide to embracing happiness, 5 Things with Father Bill features fifty topics to enhance ordinary days and holidays with insights, reflections, and encouragement.
Filled with wisdom and whimsy, readers will Witty and endearing with hands-on, real world advice, 5 Things with Father Bill makes the perfect gift for readers looking for a burst of inspiration and a dose of good cheer.
For almost a decade, popular priest and YouTube personality Fr. Bill Byrne wrote a column titled “5 Things” for his local church newspaper featuring five life hacks, prayer starters, or spiritual meditations to help readers grow closer to God and appreciate the small—but vital—things in life. Now, in a practical and engaging guide to embracing happiness, 5 Things with Father Bill features fifty topics to enhance ordinary days and holidays with insights, reflections, and encouragement.
Filled with wisdom and whimsy, readers will Witty and endearing with hands-on, real world advice, 5 Things with Father Bill makes the perfect gift for readers looking for a burst of inspiration and a dose of good cheer.
208 pages, Hardcover
Published October 16, 2020
22 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 15, 2020
Father (soon-to-be Bishop) Bill's 5 Things were unfamiliar to me, but his style and voice lend themselves to an easily accessible book that's one part humor, one part catechesis, and another part chat with a friend you'd like to share a cup of coffee or a glass of beer with.
Each list of five things centers around a theme - a holiday, a sacrament, or some other circumstance. A few paragraphs are used to flesh out the topic and serve as an introduction to the five-point list. The list themselves offer simple and practical suggestions for putting faith into action.
Because of its relatability and practicality, 5 Things with Father Bill is a welcome read for men and women of all ages and in various points on their faith journey. Each section is short, making it ideal for a quick read to mull over throughout the day. It can be read from start to finish or by skipping around as the Spirit moves. It would also make an excellent gift.
Each list of five things centers around a theme - a holiday, a sacrament, or some other circumstance. A few paragraphs are used to flesh out the topic and serve as an introduction to the five-point list. The list themselves offer simple and practical suggestions for putting faith into action.
Because of its relatability and practicality, 5 Things with Father Bill is a welcome read for men and women of all ages and in various points on their faith journey. Each section is short, making it ideal for a quick read to mull over throughout the day. It can be read from start to finish or by skipping around as the Spirit moves. It would also make an excellent gift.
December 31, 2020
Full disclosure: the author is one of our favorite people on the planet! We feel so blessed that he was our priest during college, celebrated our wedding and Baptized our first baby. His ability to connect people with their savior and grow communities (quickly doubling in size and passion) is truly remarkable! It’s no surprise to us at all that Pope Francis recently named him the Bishop of Springfield.
In this charming book, the Most Reverend William (Bill) Byrne, provides fifty short chapters on various topics ranging from holidays and major life events to everyday encounters and daily blessings. Each chapter provides memorable stories filled with spirit and humor and offers “five things” to help you grow in holiness. (Some of the topics have also been produced into short You-Tube videos, which are also gold!)
While I read the entire book over a couple of days, it can certainly be enjoyed little-by-little as each chapter reads well on its own. I will surely return to this book again and again... like when I’m packing for vacation or shopping for a gift and need some inspiration from the Holy Spirit and a little encouragement from a dear friend!
In this charming book, the Most Reverend William (Bill) Byrne, provides fifty short chapters on various topics ranging from holidays and major life events to everyday encounters and daily blessings. Each chapter provides memorable stories filled with spirit and humor and offers “five things” to help you grow in holiness. (Some of the topics have also been produced into short You-Tube videos, which are also gold!)
While I read the entire book over a couple of days, it can certainly be enjoyed little-by-little as each chapter reads well on its own. I will surely return to this book again and again... like when I’m packing for vacation or shopping for a gift and need some inspiration from the Holy Spirit and a little encouragement from a dear friend!
October 16, 2020
To read Fr. Bill is to love Fr. Bill! His 5 things will have you laughing, praying and saying your rosary (maybe while walking your dog!) The 50-stand alone chapters in this book will help you share and deepen your faith while spreading a whole lot of joy!
May 4, 2021
words of wisdom sprinkled with humor
September 28, 2020
If you are like me and looking for a spiritual pick me up, then 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul) might just be the book you are looking for. Father Bill Byrne brings faith, optimism and a bit of humor to the table to assist us in our everyday journey through this life. When I first read the description of this book, I have to admit I was a bit curious. Fifty short chapters each listing five things to inspire and enrich our daily lives sounded like a win win to me. What I didn't expect as I began reading was how beautiful and wonderful these chapters were going to be. I felt spiritually lifted with his words and advice and each new chapter filled me with longing and a sense of hope.
I can say honestly, this book has something for everyone. Some of the chapters dealt with facing fears, birthday gifts, vacation musts, purgatory, weddings, babies and forgiveness, just to name a few. Some of the chapters centered around the liturgical calendar such as Advent, Christmas and Lent and some talked about the saints, Mary and myths about the priesthood. And just when I thought I had found my favorite chapter (and 5 things), I would proceed to the next and enjoy that one just as much, if not more. Going back over the book I decided that although I loved everything in the book, my five favorite chapters (sticking with the theme) were Things I Learned From My Dog, (it made me cry), Easily Forgotten Blessings, The Sacred Heart, New Year’s Restitutions and Baseball Is Good for Your Family. I can guarantee that anyone who reads this book will feel spiritually lighter and desire to develop a new game plan for their life.There is nothing difficult in this book, just good sound advice for living your best spiritual life. I ordered myself a copy and when I receive it, I plan to read just a chapter a day. I want to savor the thoughts, words and ideas and implement them as best I can in my own life. When you read 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul), I know you will be inspired to do that too.
I want to thank Loyola Press and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy of 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul). “Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.”
I can say honestly, this book has something for everyone. Some of the chapters dealt with facing fears, birthday gifts, vacation musts, purgatory, weddings, babies and forgiveness, just to name a few. Some of the chapters centered around the liturgical calendar such as Advent, Christmas and Lent and some talked about the saints, Mary and myths about the priesthood. And just when I thought I had found my favorite chapter (and 5 things), I would proceed to the next and enjoy that one just as much, if not more. Going back over the book I decided that although I loved everything in the book, my five favorite chapters (sticking with the theme) were Things I Learned From My Dog, (it made me cry), Easily Forgotten Blessings, The Sacred Heart, New Year’s Restitutions and Baseball Is Good for Your Family. I can guarantee that anyone who reads this book will feel spiritually lighter and desire to develop a new game plan for their life.There is nothing difficult in this book, just good sound advice for living your best spiritual life. I ordered myself a copy and when I receive it, I plan to read just a chapter a day. I want to savor the thoughts, words and ideas and implement them as best I can in my own life. When you read 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul), I know you will be inspired to do that too.
I want to thank Loyola Press and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy of 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul). “Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.”
September 24, 2020
I am new to Father Bill but the book looked interesting. While my background in the Catholic faith certainly colors my interpretation of the book, I found the information very accessible and friendly in nature. I would feel comfortable giving this to friends, and will certainly give copies to my college age daughters this Christmas. .The sections are short reads, very conversational in style, interesting, humorous and fosters reflection. HIs experiences and lists are very straight forward and easy to understand. This book made me smile and feel inspired. I tend to be a more casual reader when it comes to books of this type, but I absolutely fell in love from the very beginning and now feel very motivated to pursue other writings and endeavors of Father Bill.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. It really did bring me a bit of reflection and joy in a difficult year.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. It really did bring me a bit of reflection and joy in a difficult year.
September 15, 2020
Had never heard of Father Bill, but requested this book from NetGalley because it seemed interesting. Even though I am pretty much a lapsed Catholic, I found this book both informative and humorous. Wasn't my favorite book of the year, but I have read much worse :)
October 8, 2020
A book that made me smile and think. An excellent read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 18, 2020
I Smiled the whole way through! I will miss Father Bill’s sermons as he accepts his bishop position in Massachusetts but am glad to be able to reflect on these words of wisdom once he is gone.
October 30, 2020
Love Father Bill and his words of wisdom. Going to gift this to so many this Christmas. It's a book all ages would enjoy.
December 29, 2020
Fr. Bill does a brilliant job of taking humor and faith and infusing them into this book. While not a lofty theological book, this book serves as a nice refresher and reminded of the basics of our faith and every day life experiences.
March 30, 2021
Loved, loved, loved this book. Lots of wisdom, spirituality and humor. Easy read!
January 7, 2024
“the bottom line is that at the end of your life, God is not going to ask to see your resume; he’s going to ask who you brought with you” - page 142
January 26, 2021
Like many, I can always use a lift of my spirits. Even better is when this lift helps me consider how to grow in relationship to Christ and my fellow humans.
Father Bill does this with a dash of humor tossed into the mix. Covering a variety of topics important to living life as a Catholic, you get quick, actionable ideas to improve your life. It is written in a conversational style that makes it easier to not only grasp but feel seen.
Don't ask me to pick a favorite list of 5 things. SO much goodness in this title that it is impossible.
However, some are less timely for me (e.g. new parents as that season of life is behind me, I hope!)
I want to thank Loyola Press and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy of 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul). “Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.”
Father Bill does this with a dash of humor tossed into the mix. Covering a variety of topics important to living life as a Catholic, you get quick, actionable ideas to improve your life. It is written in a conversational style that makes it easier to not only grasp but feel seen.
Don't ask me to pick a favorite list of 5 things. SO much goodness in this title that it is impossible.
However, some are less timely for me (e.g. new parents as that season of life is behind me, I hope!)
I want to thank Loyola Press and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy of 5 Things with Father Bill (Hope, Humor and Help for the Soul). “Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.”
February 8, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Father Bill for the arc of this book, 5 Things with Father Bill: Hope, Humor, and Help for the Soul. This book was such a pleasure to read. Father Bill covers a wide array of topics like, what I learned from my dog, how to face terror, why baseball is good for your family and how to get the most out of Easter. Within each short chapter Father Bill includes a lists of 5 important points or lessons and suggestions, each endearing list is designed to bring you back to God, to the present moment and finding joy even in the small things. Father Bills writing style and tone is very warm and friendly. This is a great book to give as a gift or to keep close by for moments of inspiration.
June 11, 2023
This was a delightful little book. After seeing Fr. Byrne on EWTN's Life on the Rock, I knew I had to read it, and it certainly did not disappoint. In our busy world, this is a great little reminder to slow down and take it easy. Each chapter is just two or three pages, focusing on little way that you can bring joy, gratitude, or other virtues into your life. Fr. Bill's writing style is conversational and easy to follow, and the whole experience was a pleasure. With Christmas coming up, this is a great idea for a gift for your Catholic friends. A great reminder of the good things in life and how to grow closer to God.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews