I havn't read every book about Mary, but I know a classic when I read it, and this book falls in that category. The sub-title "The Virgin Mary in History, Art, & Apparition" aptly summarizes the main themes. Mr. Martin traces the historical flowering of Mary's influence in Christendom. This is seen from the very beginning of the church and proves to be a guiding factor in keeping the Church from being ship-wrecked on the rocks of error and enemies. In addition to history and theology, the artistry of Marian paintings, cathedrals (such as Chartres), and music are also appraised and found to be valuble anchors to keep to us grounded in the truth. Finally, the apparitions reinforce the theme that Mary's work did not end when she gave birth to our Lord. She continues to draw people to Christ through miracles and messages which are difficult to ignore. The Remnant newspaper's book reviewer says, "I can think of no better book on the subject written in the last fifteen years." The National Catholic Register calls it "A Marian Tour De Force. . . the book stimulates the mind and enflames the spirit in equal measure." In addition to a beautifully written book, there are some beautiful art reproductions. Order one today and chances are you will order more later for gifts.

Whether you are part of the Judeo/Christian tradition or not, it would be impossible to name a woman who has more influence in the history of the world than the Mary of Nazareth, the mother of Jesus Christ. More paintings, sculptures, music, and architecture has been dedicated to and inspired by this remarkable, singular woman who lived nearly two thousand years ago in Asia Minor. Believers and non-believers alike can learn an immense amount from this truly well written book. I highly recommend it!

It is very easy to use. If you visit Chicago (a city that works) on business or for pleasure as a native or a stranger this is the best guide to stick into your jacket pocket or purse. About the size of a highway map, it uses a combination of weatherproof color city and transit maps with an index of sites, entertainment, night life, accommodations, and seasonal events with a brief description, addresses, telephone numbers, and hours of each. (But, call and check the business hours, many are out of date.) If you want to zip around Chicago go to ... and order for free the Chicago Transit Authority's bus and rail map and other special CTA maps. They show the number and route of each bus, L, and subway. Combined with the friendly help of Chicago residents it's hard to get lost.

Louis Martin was a prosperous businessman who used his life on earth to build up treasure in heaven. This book gives us a complete picture of the Father of a Saint, from his marriage to widowhood, from a man who taught his children to imitate Christ to the man who is hospitalized due to memory loss and confusion. This biography shows that holiness in everyday life is possible and will inspire all to lead better lives.

The book clearly goes to show that St. Martin is taking a gnostic stand when it comes to how he looks at this world, compared to the other world, or the material and the spiritual world. As he writes:

This world, where we believe we are, but are not. The other world, where we believe we are not, but where we actually are.

He goes on to describe the fallen state of both this world, and the fall of man, and the importance of work and methods of how to regain the primordial divine grace, how to be a Gods minister while on earth, etc.

For the sincere Martinist will I warmly recommend this book, it's probably one of his best works.

Sincerely

Paal E. Vevle

I enjoyed this book tremendously. The style is inviting, the illustrations are beautiful, and the stories about Martin's life are wonderful. I especially like the connections that Joan Monahan draws between Martin's values and the issues we face today. Born four hundred years ago of mixed race to a single mother, Martin knew how it felt to be rejected. He is a model of social justice, concern for the environment, and respect for animals. Whether you're already familiar with St. Martin de Porres or not, you will learn much that is new and inspiring in this well-researched and highly readable biography.

Our Restless Heart: The Augustinian Tradition by Thomas F. Martin (Associate Professor, Department of Theology and Religious Studies, Villanova University) is a informative presentation introducing the reader to Augustine of Hippo, the theologian, convert, bishop, and polemicist whose spiritual vision holds abiding insights for the faithful across the span of centuries. A thoughtful and philosophical treatise covering the legacy of a great Christian historical figure, Our Restless Heart is a welcome and valued contribution to Roman Catholic Theology in general, and Augustinian Studies in particular.

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It's true, a picture is worth a thousand words... but in the case of Brother Mickey's work, the words make the pictures even more alive. He takes the time to visit actual workplacs to capture details before beginning each "portrait." The attention to (and inclusion of)detail is magnificent and adds authenticity to an already marvelous work.

This book -- and its predecessor -- is a must for the bookshelves of religious eduators in all settings, and makes a great gift!

Can't wait for next year!

This book introduced me to St. Martin de Porres. The book describes in detail the exemplary life that St. Martin led in sixteenth-century Lima, along with the amazing things that happened to him as a result of his friendship with God. St. Martin's aim in life was to share all that he had with those who needed it - including both the destitute homeless and the theoretically-rich Spanish gentry who occasionally hid their own poverty behind a mask of pride. As an example of service to others, of true selflessness and love of God, one should look to St. Martin de Porres. Read this book as a good introduction to this extraordinary Saint.

Louis Claude de Saint-Martin is the most great adept of the eighteenth's ocultism. He is the master of Eliphas Levi, Papus, Stanislas de Guaita and his doctrine originated the most pure andn sanct of the ocult schools, the Martinist Order.
A recomended lecture to all serious students of ocultism, particularly, Qabbalah.
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These combined works of von Balthasar on two Carmelite nuns, St. Therese of Lisieux and Bl. Elizabeth of the Trinity, offers exceptional insights to their particular spiritualities and their role in the Church. The part focusing on Therese is perhaps best read with an already established knowlege of the saint. Be prepared to totally change the way you think of the "Little Flower"! This is probably not a good book for those just becoming familiar with Therese, but for those who have read nearly all she has written (Story of a Soul, Letters, Poems, etc.) von Balthasar's thoughts will be a fascinating read. This book sheds some very interesting light on other works of Therese when you go back to read them a second time! This is the best book I've read on Therese. The section on Bl. Elizabeth is considerably shorter, but the book is worth buying for it alone. Her simple "way," the praise of the glory of God's grace, is eloquently illuminated by von Balthasar. In a word, beautiful... I highly recommend this book for all lovers of Carmel, and for anyone who has stumbled upon the greatness of these two women.