BALTIMORE, MDThree books which were recently published by Ave Maria Press are finalists for the Excellence in Publishing Awards by the Association of Catholic Publishers, including Basil Moreau: Essential Writings, edited by Revs. Andrew Gawrych, C.S.C., and Kevin Grove, C.S.C.Essential Writingsis a finalist in the theology category.
The book is an anthology of the important published and previously unpublished writings of Congregation of Holy Crossfounder, Blessed Basil Moreau. It includes selections from Fr. Moreau’s sermons, pastoral letters, educational treatises, and spiritual reflections, which reveal a figure who was no stranger to difficulty and conflict, but who also was deeply committed to a hope that can only emerge from Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.
The other finalists are Lisa M. Hendey’s The Grace of Yes, a finalist in the inspirational category. In her newest book, Hendey, popular Catholic blogger and founder of CatholicMom.com, explores eight spiritual virtues she believes are foundational to Christian life. Through her own spiritual journey, she helps readers learn about belief, generativity, creativity, integrity, humility, vulnerability, saying no, and starting over, and shows how these virtues lead to generous living and the ability to joyously say yes to god.
When Saint Francis Saved the Church, by Jon M. Sweeney, is the thirdfinalist in the general interest category. Sweeney offers a surprising look at the world’s most popular saint, showing how this beloved, but often-mythologized character created a spiritual vision for the ages that may well have rescued the Christian faith. The book also connects Saint Francis and his teachings with that of Pope Francis today.
First-, second-, and third-place awards in each of nine categories, recognizing the best in Catholic writing, will be given at the 2015 Religious Booksellers Trade Exhibit in St. Charles, Ill. A “book of the year” also will be awarded.
