Guide Books

Deacons proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in three primary ways. They assist during the liturgy. They serve the needy in the community. They preach.

Many deacons are single men who are preparing for their ordination to the priesthood. Their diaconate serves as an internship for the joys and demands of priesthood. We call them transitional deacons because they serve the Church as deacons during an interim period of their life.

Other deacons commit to this ministry as a lifelong service. We call them permanent deacons. They spend their years of preparation to serve as deacons specifically serve. Some of them are single, yet they have not felt the call to priesthood. Most of them are married. As baptized and confirmed members of the community, they have already accepted the responsibility to bear witness to the faith they profess. As married members of the community, they demonstrate the holiness of wedded love. As ordained members of the community, they possess the special charisms of deacons. Their entire lives bear witness to the interplay between faith and service, between worship and charity. Their lives enrich the Church.

This book will offer deacons guidance to assist their liturgical ministry. You will learn about the history of the diaconate and how the Church understands the role of the deacon. Deacons will find some reflections to help develop your spirituality, whether they are single or married. This book gives practical advice on many aspects of the liturgical service you offer the Church. And it will answer the most frequently asked questions about diaconal ministry. At the end there will be a selection of resources for further reading, as well as a glossary of This book includes:

• A basic theological and historical overview of the ministry
• Catechesis about liturgy, ritual, and symbols
• Ways to deepen your prayer life
• Generous quotations from the documents of the Church and from scripture
• Detailed and practical instructions regarding the deacons role at Mass, Baptisms, Confirmations, Weddings, Funerals, Liturgy of the Hours, and Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest
• Frequently asked questions with answers
• Questions for discussion and reflection
• Annotated bibliography
• Glossary for easy reference
• Instructive photos, charts, and text boxes
• Prayers of preparation

This book has been written with texts from the third edition of The Roman Missal.

978-1-61671-046-0 | Paperback | 6 x 9 | 96 pages | Language: English

Guide for Training Initiation Ministers: An Introduction to the RCIA by Michael Ruzicki

This practical guide provides parish leaders with the tools needed for facilitating and training all those involved with the adult Christian initiation process. Designed as a companion to An Introduction to the RCIA: The Vision of Christian Initiation by Ronald J. Lewinski, the enclosed training sessions explore the vision, theology, and purpose of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults in a lively, interactive, and faith-filled way. Supplemental resources are available for download online, and the enclosed DVD includes thirteen videos that will deepen and enlighten participants' understanding about the RCIA process.

This training resource will help parish leaders:

• Facilitate sessions and lead retreats on Christian initiation
• Explore the periods (stages) and rites (steps) of the RCIA
• Catechize and form initiation ministers in the vision of the RCIA
• Encourage deeper reflection on the sacraments of initiation, especially Baptism
• Engage conversation about the Christian faith
• Involve the baptized members of the community in the process of initiation
• Impart the catechumenal process as the model for all parish faith formation

Inside you will find:

• Ten detailed, informative, and prayerful training session
• Easy-to-use leader's and participants' outlines
• Scripts and directions for leader's facilitation
• Discussion sparkers
• Opening and closing prayers
• Thirteen videos with interviews and footage of best practice
• Links to supplemental materials

978-1-61671-354-6 | Book with disk | 8 1/2 x 11 | 144 pages | Language: English

Corinna Laughlin, Paul Turner, D. Todd Williamson

The work of the sacristan is extremely important, for without their preparations, the Mass cannot begin. Sacristans work behind the scenes to help ensure proper celebration of the liturgy, setting out the books, the vestments, the vessels, the bread, and the wine. Grounded in Church doctrine and liturgical practice, this updated guide provides newly formed and experienced sacristans with the skills and theological insights to help them fulfill these crucial tasks.

This guide includes:

• Theological and historical reflections on the liturgy and the ministry
• Practical skill-building and advice for serving in this role
• Ways to deepen your spirituality and call to discipleship
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Recommended resources
• A glossary
• Questions for discussion and reflection
• 978-1-61671-579-3 | Paperback | 6 x 9 | 96 pages | Language: English

Your great love of music and musical talent have led you to serve the Church as a cantor, song leader, and psalmist. The ministry of cantor is an essential part of the Church's worship; it helps the flow of liturgical prayer, adds beauty and artistry to the celebration, and enlivens the words that express Catholic belief all which lead the assembly into an encounter with the presence of Christ.

This third edition has been updated with enhanced content and features. As part of the Liturgical Ministry Series®, this book is grounded in Church doctrine and liturgical practice, and follows a format that provides both the newly formed minister and the experienced minister with basic skills and theological insights in order to perform their ministry well and in a Christlike manner. Guide for Cantors provides:

• Theological and historical reflections on the liturgy and the ministry
• Practical skills-building and advice for serving in this role
• Ways to deepen your spirituality and call to discipleship
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Recommended resources
• A glossary
• Questions for discussion and reflection

978-1-61671-582-3 | Saddlestitched | 6 x 9 | 80 pages | Language: English

Third Edition

Gui­a para celebrar la iniciacion cristiana con adultos by Victoria M. Tufano, Paul Turner, D. Todd Williamson

This invaluable guide for preparing the liturgies for the rites of Christian initiation will assist priests, liturgists, liturgy commissions, and coordinators of Christian initiation. The book focuses primarily on the rites for unbaptized adults but also considers the rites for uncatechized adults, the reception of baptized Christians into full communion, and the reception of Orthodox Christians. A Q & A chapter answers a range of questions for those who coordinate the process and parish pastors. A table outlines each period and step of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, indicating the rites that occur during each period and the length of each period. A glossary defines terms relevant to the Christian initiation process. The section on resources provides a library of initiation materials.

978-1-61671-446-8 | Paperback | 6 x 9 | 176 pages | Language: Spanish

Advanced training for proclaimers of the word of God by Douglas Leal.

Assemblies recognize the difference between a lector who simply reads and one who truly proclaims the Word of God. They perk up and take special notice when they sense that the lector has worked to get inside the text, to express the meaning authentically, and to draw them into the story. Douglas Leal has spent decades as a lector, lector trainer, actor, and director. He knows how to coach lectors beyond reading so they can become proclaimers of the Word. The conversational, spirited style of the book recreates the sense of a live training session with the author. In a magazine format, with running text surrounded by boxes that focus on a particular subjects and techniques, a tool from the actor's toolbox, or an encouraging story from the world of acting, the book presents a wealth of wisdom and practical instruction that can carry a lector far beyond basic training. Chapter by chapter, Leal guides lectors to

Printed on durable card stock with larger type, this confession aid includes the full order of service for individual confession from the new translation of the Order of Penance. Its easy-to-use, tri-folded-format is designed to help penitents participate more fully in individual reconciliation and know the appropriate prayers and responses. This confession aid also includes a Prayer of Preparation, an Examination of Conscience, and a Prayer of Thanksgiving.

This aid can be kept on hand in confessionals and reconciliation chapels or in church vestibules.

Each pack includes 50 cards.

The Vigil for the Deceased and the Rite of Committal Worship Aid by Danielle Noe

Vigil for the Deceased and the Rite of Committal prayer card will help those who take part in these rites of the Order of Christian Funerals. This easy-to-use worship aid guides the mourners through the liturgy and provides their responses, and it includes a few well-known hymns to encourage singing. Its simple, dignified design is suited to the solemnity of the rites it supports.

978-1-61671-440-6 | Prayercard | Language: English

The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation is a beautiful, prayerful book by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson which helps Catholics enter in to the Sacrament of Reconciliation more deeply.

In this small but powerful book, Fr. Mike and Fr. Josh explain:

• How to make an excellent examination of conscience

• How to identify the root cause of sins you find yourself confessing over and over again

• What to do if you don't feel sorry for your sins

• What to do if you can't think of anything to say

• What do to if you are afraid to confess a particular sin

This book includes an examination of conscience and the text of the Act of Contrition.

Its small size, page-holding ribbon, and durable Alpha Cowhide cover make it perfect to bring with you every time you go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation!

Author: Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson

ISBN: 9781950784554

By Timothy A. Johnston, Paul Turner, Paul Radkowski

The celebration of infant Baptism stirs joy within a community and reminds those who have gathered that God has called each of us to be missionary disciples. Celebrating Baptism well has the potential to evangelize and transform a parish community so that their faith will be stirred, deepened, and renewed. This second edition provides pastoral guidance for preparing joyful and communal celebrations of infant Baptism within or outside Mass according to the newly translated Order of Baptism of Children. It provides guidance for selecting Scripture readings, prayer texts, and music; arranging the environment; scheduling ministers; and preparing liturgies that engage and evangelize.

As part of the Preparing Parish Worship series, this book includes:

• Theological reflections on the meaning of Baptism
• Historical overview of the development of the baptismal rites for children
• A walk-through of the newly translated Order of Baptism of Children
• Answers to frequently asked questions with responses to difficult pastoral situations
• Assistance with best liturgical practices
• Inspirational and informative quotations from Scripture and Church documents

978-1-61671-564-9 | Paperback | 6 x 9 | 176 pages | Language: English | Copyright Year: 2020

Joined by the Church, Sealed by a Blessing does more than help parish leaders plan excellent wedding liturgies and prepare engaged couples well. It enables parish leaders to address the challenges of increased divorce, fewer Catholic weddings, empty pews on Sundays, and the increasing number of people who choose no faith. This is the one book that will give you a comprehensive plan to address these concerns with confidence, creativity, and clarity.

With over fifty years of combined hands-on experience in parish and diocesan liturgy preparation and catechumenate formation, Diana Macalintal and Nick Wagner give you more than just another marriage preparation resource. They give you a parish transformation tool.

Subtitle: Couples and Communities Called to Conversion Together
Author: Diana Macalintal and Nick Wagner

PRODUCT DETAILS
ISBN: 9780814637654
Details: 216 pgs , 6 x 9 
Publication Date: 09/22/2014

With a warm and friendly style, this booklet provides thoughtful, clear answers to the questions parents have about preparing their children to receive the sacraments of reconciliation and Communion for the first time. It includes recommendations for the involvement of godparents, reflections on the meaning of the sacraments, an overview of the rites, and guidance for how and when to receive the sacraments. It also stresses the importance of regularly confessing sins and going to Mass as a family. With questions for reflection, parents will be able to engage with their children about their developing faith and help them participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church as they mature.

9781616717469 | Saddlestitched | 6 x 9 | 64 pages

With a warm and friendly style, this booklet provides thoughtful, clear answers to the questions parents have about preparing their children to receive the sacraments of reconciliation and Communion for the first time. It includes recommendations for the involvement of godparents, reflections on the meaning of the sacraments, an overview of the rites, and guidance for how and when to receive the sacraments. It also stresses the importance of regularly confessing sins and going to Mass as a family. With questions for reflection, parents will be able to engage with their children about their developing faith and help them participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church as they mature.

9781616717483 | Saddlestitched | 6 x 9 | 64 pages

Help teens prepare to encounter the love and mercy of God through the sacrament of reconciliation with LTP's Preparing for Confession for Teens! Written specifically for middle- and high-school aged youth, this guide focuses on God's desire to bring healing, hope, and freedom through this beautiful sacrament. It includes:

• Short scriptural reflections inviting teens to look back on their lives in the light of God's abundant mercy;
• An age-appropriate examination of conscience asking teens to consider their relationship with God, with others, and with self;
• Step-by-step instructions for celebrating the sacrament individually or as a part of a communal reconciliation service;
• An invitation for teens to give thanks for the gift of God's mercy and how they can continue to live in the freedom God has given them in the sacrament.

Preparing for Confession for Teens is an excellent resource for youth ministers, directors of religious education, campus ministers, and pastors to have available whenever teens will be invited to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation.

9781616717759 | Saddlestitched | 4-1/4 x 5-1/2 | 32 pages

Sin wounds our relationship with God, with ourselves, and with others. In his great love, God calls us to reconcile with him, to experience a conversion of heart that moves us to feel contrition for the thoughts, behaviors, and the inaction that harm ourselves and our relationships with him and others. In the sacrament of reconciliation, we are invited to experience God's love and mercy.

Designed specifically for children who will celebrate the sacrament for the first time, Preparing for Confession for Children: Receiving God's Mercy will help young people get ready to confess their sins. Scripture passages will help children reflect on God's mercy. They will be guided to examine their conscience, to think about what to confess, and to pray before and after the sacrament. A downloadable pdf is also available to parents who want additional support and catechesis about the sacrament.

The booklet, appropriately sized for small hands, can be brought to confession and is ideal for children in Catholic schools and religious education programs.

9781616717759 | Saddlestitched | 4-1/4 x 5-1/2 | 24 pages

By Jo-Ann Metzdorff and Paul Turner

Guide for Celebrating First Communion presents a collaborative and liturgically appropriate approach for preparing Masses in which children are receiving Communion for the first time. Combining a theological and historical overview with practical advice, this guide may be used by pastors, liturgists, music directors, directors of religious education, catechists, and worship commissions to help foster the participation of children and bring them to full communion at the table of the Lord.  This resource includes:

• A walk through the Mass detailing liturgical norms and acceptable practices
• Recommendations for readings and prayer texts
• Suggestions for selecting music and preparing the liturgical environment
• Ideas for scheduling liturgies, seating arrangements, processions, attire, and preparing liturgical ministers
• Strategies for dealing with difficult circumstances
• Ways the parish liturgy evangelizes
• Documentation from Church documents
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Glossary of terms

978-1-61671-235-8 | Paperback | 6 x 9 | 128 pages | Language: English | Copyright Year: 2015

The publication of the second edition of The Order of Celebrating Matrimony provides new liturgical and pastoral opportunities for presiders and parishes. In One Love, Fr. Paul Turner--one of the most reliable experts in Catholic liturgy today--provides sound guidance and instruction on the rite. Among the many important and practical topics he covers are:

• uses for the expanded introduction
• the engagement ceremony
• the location for the wedding
• the revised words for the questions, consent, and reception of consent
• the customs of the arras, the lazo, and the veil
• other wedding customs
• and more

One Love promises to be the go-to liturgical resource on Catholic weddings for years to come.

Author: Paul Turner

Details: 88 pgs , 6 x 9 

Publication Date: 08/09/2016