Resources

A curated collection of the books, talks, and teachings that have shaped our understanding of St. John Paul II’s wisdom and the life of prayer.

Where to Begin

This wisdom is vast, and walking into it for the first time can feel like standing at the base of a mountain. These are the resources we return to again and again. Some are introductions. Some go deep into the theology. Some are for families, some for children, some for anyone learning to pray.

Take what’s useful. Come back when you’re ready for more.

This wisdom is vast, and walking into it for the first time can feel like standing at the base of a mountain. These are the resources we return to again and again. Some are introductions. Some go deep into the theology. Some are for families, some for children, some for anyone learning to pray.
Take what’s useful. Come back when you’re ready for more.

Discovering God’s Master Plan for your Life

Access all videos by Christopher West for only $7.95 streaming, which include all 8 sessions. A full-color, thorough workbook can also be purchased through Ascension with this series.

Books on Prayer by Fr. Jacques Philippe

St. John Paul the Great has a Carmelite heart. The Catechism states that Carmelites St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Jesus are masters of prayer. Although not specifically Carmelite, Fr. Jacques Philippe books on prayer help us learn how to pray, why it is so important and secrets of many saints’ prayer life. Time for God, Thirsting for Prayer, Fire & Light, Searching for and Maintaining Peace, and The Way of Trust and Love name just a few of his books helping us to be people of true, deep prayer. Prayer that fulfills, transforms and illuminates everything!

Theology of the Body for Beginners

A concise introduction. Using simple, everyday language, Dr. Christopher West lays a foundation for understanding the basics of St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, making his profound teachings on human sexuality easy to grasp and apply in our lives.

Theology of the Body in an Hour

by Jason Evert. More books by Evert: Theology of the His/Her Body; The Dating Blueprint (for Guys); How to Find Your Soulmate without Losing Your Soul (for Ladies).

Fr. Mike Schmitz Video Series

Fr. Mike Schmitz 4-Part video series, given as an overview; presented as a talk Fr. Mike gives every year to his students on campus. Free after email sign-up, with a PDF, simple 19 page outline available for printing. Easy for all ages to understand and enjoy.

The Body Matters – Book Collection

The Body Matters books for children grade-school age. Wonderful for families to easily bring theology of the body into their homes. Collect all 16. Give as gifts to your children/grandchildren.

Looking for Something Else

The best way to go deeper isn’t a book. It’s a retreat, a conversation, or a community of people walking the same road.

If you’ve read what’s here and you’re ready for the next step, that’s what we’re for.