TAN Books
Or The Mansions
by St Teresa of Avila
What does the life of our soul look like?
In The Interior Castle, St. Teresa imagines the soul as a magnificent castle full of spacious and elaborate rooms. And, as St. Teresa describes, at the heart of this castle stands the seat of the King Himself.
“I thought of the soul as resembling a castle, formed of a single diamond or a very transparent crystal, and containing many rooms, just as in Heaven there are many mansions. If we reflect, sisters, we shall see that the souls of the just man is but a paradise, in which, God tells us, He takes His delight.” (Page 7)
This book provides a remarkable description of the spiritual life of the soul. From the first release of the soul from mortal sin into sanctifying grace, to the mystical marriage of the soul to Christ, Interior Castle describes the spiritual life as a journey through the imagery of a mysterious and beautiful castle.
Using her image of a castle, Saint Teresa writes about numerous essential aspects of our spiritual journey in this book, including:
- Practical advice to those beginning their spiritual journey, especially regarding the early struggles and temptations to turn back
- Descriptions of the seven mansions and what they mean for the soul
- How and why we should love and serve the Divine Majesty
- The value of our progress towards God
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 254 pages, Impr.
in Both Public and Private Life
by Michael Davies
In December of 1925, Pope Pius XI declared the answer to this simple question—Pax Christi in Regno Christi (The peace of Christ is in the kingdom of Christ).
His idea was clear: our world is chaotic and hopeless because man does not recognize the sovereignty of Christ. Christ’s kingly authority has been largely ignored by social and political groups, and even the Church has failed to properly proclaim this great truth.
God’s law is higher than any human law; His justice is beyond our comprehension. Jesus Christ is King of the Universe and ruler of all things—but how often do our political or private actions acknowledge this reality?
Author Michael Davies explores all the places where the sovereignty of Christ has been ignored or attacked. Some of the places he points to include our modern understanding of rights, our laws and conventions, and our social and political ideologies.
In order to combat the rebellion against Jesus’s sovereignty, Michael Davies explains how we can correctly submit to Jesus’s authority in every part of our lives. Most importantly, he will show you the importance of the Feast of Christ the King and the many other ways we can participate in defending Christ’s kingdom.
The honest and brilliant writing of Michael Davies makes this booklet an exciting read, as well as a manual to help diagnose and treat the many issues of our modern-day life.
“For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king.” (Isaias 33:22)
Booklet, size 6" x 3.75", 36 pages
A Complete History of the Catholic Church to the Present Day
for High School, College, and Adult Reading
by Fr John Laux, M.A.
From the beginning to 1940. Written for both students and adults. The author intersperses the history with many brief, interesting biographies of famous people, and at the end of each chapter he quotes briefly from a famous writing of the era, blending a medley of elements into a comprehensive historical composition that is at once brilliant and fascinating. A story of the Church unparalleled in its scope, depth, variety and impact, and a book all Catholics should read.
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 686 pages
The Twelve Degrees of Humility and Pride
by St. Bernard of Clairvaux
In his masterful 12th-century work, The Twelve Degrees of Humility and Pride, St. Bernard of Clairvaux--the "Doctor Mellifluus" or "Honey-Sweet Doctor"-- eloquently crafts a soul's guide to spiritual ascent and descent. With his deep understanding of human nature and his own monastic experience, St. Bernard outlines a path that leads away from the self-deception of pride towards the liberating embrace of humility.
St. Bernard illustrates humility as the foundation of a life anchored in truth, where self-knowledge and the recognition of God's greatness kindle the desire for inner transformation. In contrast, pride is depicted as a deceptive force, leading one away from God and into the isolation of self-importance. The saint's discerning eye lays bare the subtle gradations between these two extremes, offering a ladder of spiritual progression for the earnest seeker.
For nearly a millennium, the "honey-sweet" words of the Doctor Mellifluus have resonated with those yearning for a deeper relationship with the divine. This book is not merely a historical artifact; it is a living text that speaks directly to the heart, offering wisdom that transcends the centuries. For anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of spiritual growth, The Twelve Degrees of Humility and Pride offers a compass that points unerringly to the transformative power of humility in a life consecrated to God.
Paperback, size 7" x 5", 144 pages
by Colleen Hammond
In this ground-breaking book, Colleen Hammond challenges today's fashions and provides you the information you need to protect yourself and your loved ones from the onslaught of tasteless, immodest clothing. Colleen Hammond shares real-life examples of how women can accentuate the grace and beauty of their femininity, and she shows that "modest" definitely does not mean "frumpy."
Dressing with Dignity covers it all: the history and forces behind the changes in fashion; how to talk to teenagers about the privilege of femininity so they will want to dress with dignity; how to awaken chivalry in men and be treated with respect; how to regain and teach the lost charm of interior and exterior femininity; how to dress in an attractive, dignified, classy manner; specific documents about manners of dress from the Magisterium, the Popes and the Saints; comprehensive guidelines for choosing tasteful attire; resources on where to find beautiful, modest clothing; and much, much more!
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 160 pages
compiled from Traditional Sources
Prayers within include:
- How to pray the Rosary
- How to practice the First Saturday Devotion
- Rosary meditations of St. L. De Montfort
- Seven Sorrows of Our Lady
- Devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help
- Litany to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Christmas Prayer
- The powerful Thirty Days Prayer
- Fatima Prayers
- The Rosary in Latin
- Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary
- And so much more!
The perfect size to carry always, its daily use will aid your devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is the perfect gift for those faithful with a lifelong devotion to Mary, as well as for those who are just beginning to ask the Blessed Virgin to intercede on their behalf.
Booklet, size 6" x 3.75", 73 pages
by Sr. Mary Joan Therese
It can often be difficult for our children to understand what is happening in the Mass.
With My See and Pray Missal, you will have the perfect tool to help your kids participate and learn from the greatest work of the Church, the Mass, through a book that is designed to teach children in the way they best learn: by their senses.
Written in 1961 for young souls, this booklet is a concise and engaging approach to the traditional Latin Mass. Inside the pages, the most important parts of the Mass are highlighted and age-appropriate ways to pray the Mass are given to your child throughout.
The goal of the book is for your child to SEE the actions that take place during the Mass, and to begin to understand and PRAY what he or she sees.
It contains attractive but simple illustrations, as well as many other resources:
- A prayer before Mass to the Blessed Mother
- Descriptions of different objects used during the Mass
- Information about the Eucharistic miracle and the Real Prescence
- Sections for writing intentions, favorite prayers, and journaling
The combination of clearly laid-out Catholic doctrine and age-appropriate lessons and prayers will make this booklet a favorite of your child and you! With this booklet stowed in your purse, pocket, or little one’s hand, your child will be entertained while also learning important habits of prayer.
My See and Pray Missal helps fulfill Our Lord’s words: “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matt 19:14). With this book, a child will easily be able to follow the Mass with both mind and heart. At an age when distraction is so common, children will be provided with a book that helps them open the door wide for Our Lord and His grace.
Booklet, size 6" x 3.75", 48 pages
Illustrated by Facts Taken from Profane and Sacred History
by Fr F X Schouppe, SJ
The Dogma of Hell explores the basic Catholic doctrine on Hell, purposefully awakening in the reader a profound realization of its reality and eternity of horrors. Eminent French theologian Fr F X Schouppe, SJ, author of Purgatory Explained by the Lives and Legends of the Saints, has written here a similar but much smaller book.
In short chapters, he has recounted numerous true stories, apparitions of the damned, and complete Catholic teaching on Hell. He clearly shows that for those who are not motivated to do good out of love of God, the fear of Hell is a legitimate and often salutary motive for avoiding sin. Although the subject matter is frightening, the ultimate purpose of this book is not to frighten souls, but to help them avoid damnation by reminding them of the pain and suffering in an eternity spent in the absence of God.
Paperback, size 7" x 4.25", 112 pages
by Fr Richard Butler, O.P.
Many young Catholics today agonize over their "vocations" and "whether God is calling" them. To some extent, even a whole subculture of "vocational anxiety" has arisen because of the modernist myth of "religious vocation." Written by the solidly Thomistic Dominican Fr. Richard Butler in 1961, Religious Vocation: An Unnecessary Mystery shows that the idea that we have to discern what God wants for our lives in the depths of our hearts by finding something out within ourselves is completely incorrect. It is a modernist myth, a totally wrong approach to a religious vocation that began in the early 20th century. It is true that many have needlessly suffered over this question, misunderstanding (because of the poor teaching of theologians) how it is that a soul responds to Divine Grace.
The truth, as Fr. Butler notes with the teaching of St. Thomas Aquinas and "the unanimous opinion of Fathers of the Church," is that the evangelical counsels are open to all. Entering religious life is about the decision of the individual, and must be based not on discernment of one's interior desires or feelings per se, nor of "what God wants" (for He has expressed Himself in the Gospels!), but rather of one's ability to follow through and one's lack of real impediments. Though Fr. Butler deals primarily with vocations to the religious life, he also gives the classic guidelines on priestly vocations, including indications of fitness and of unfitness.
The message of this book will be very surprising, but also extremely liberating to many generous souls wanting to explore a supernatural vocation. The author states—based on the tradition of the Church—that religious vocation is "not uncommon, rare, or extraordinary" and that it does not require an introspective search for some "special voice" or attraction in the inmost depths of the heart. All that is needed is a willing heart and disattachment from other demands of charity in life.
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 167 pages
by St Robert Bellarmine
“If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire.” (Mark 9:43)
Hell is a terrible place…but how horrific is it actually?
What would happen to me if I were to be there eternally?
St. Robert Bellarmine, Doctor of the Church, explains the horrors of Hell in clear details in Hell and its Torments. St. Robert explains why Our Lord repeatedly mentions the “fires of Gehenna” and the fate of the souls who turn against him. Of Judas he says. “it would be better for that man if he had never been born” (Matt 26:24). Our dear loving Lord’s numerous references to Hell and warnings against it should prompt us to consider it in detail and understand its horror.
If we cannot be inspired to run towards God by the rewards and joys of Heaven, let us at the least begin our movement towards our loving God by fleeing the fires of Hell.
Originally one part of a four-part sermon, St. Robert Bellarmine’s vigorous examination of the reality of Hell will inspire you to amend your life and desire even more the blessedness of Heaven. This small and powerful booklet is perfectly composed so as to focus our minds on the essential realities of Hell.
The meditations on the pains of Hell, written in 1574, remain surprisingly relevant to our modern world. The sermon considers the tremendous gravity of sin, the complete and unthinkable suffering of those in Hell, and the contrast of Hell with the blessed souls in Heaven. In all these considerations, St. Robert Bellarmine vigorously pursues the truth of Hell and its relevance to us as sinners.
The brief and powerful lessons in Hell and Its Torments will touch your soul and inspire to abandon sin and turn to the grace that God constantly offers so that we can become saints.
Booklet, size 6" x 3.25", 46 pages
Infamous Myths About the Church's Past and How to Answer Them
by Diane Moczar, PhD
In Seven Lies about Catholic History, Diane Moczar (author of Islam at the Gates) tackles the most infamous and prevalent historical myths about the Church—popular legends that you encounter everywhere from textbooks to T.V.—and reveals the real truth about them. She explains how they got started and why they're still around, and best of all, she gives you the facts and the arguments you need to set the record straight about:
- The Inquisition: how it was not a bloodthirsty institution but a merciful (and necessary) one;
- Galileo's trial: why moderns invented a myth around it to make science appear incompatible with the Catholic faith (it's not);
- The Reformation: why the 16th-century Church was not totally corrupt (as even some Catholics wrongly believe), as well as how the reformers made things worse for everybody;
- And other lies that the world uses to attack and discredit the Faith
Written in a brisk style that's fun and easy to read, Seven Lies about Catholic History provides the lessons that every Catholic needs in order to defend and explain not just apologize for the Church's rich and complex history.
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 200 pages
Doctor of the Church
by Fr D.F. Miller, CSSR and Fr L.X. Aubin, CSSR
St. Alphonsus Liguori, the Prince of Moral Theologians, was one of the greatest preachers in Church history. A religious founder, consummate theologian, and holy man of God, Saint Alphonsus never failed to utter a stirring word that draws out a lively penitence and redoubled dedication to the work of God from his congregation.
Born in 1696 near Naples, he grew up in a family of noble descent but which was less well-off than might be expected. Graduating at age 16 with a doctorate of both laws, he practiced brilliantly for 11 years. When he lost a major case, he passed through a period of remorse and conversion of life (though he had never been greatly sinful), and resolved to become a priest after he heard a voice saying, "Leave the world and give thyself to me." After facing opposition and trouble, he eventually was ordained a priest at 30 years old. He served in Naples for a time, and then in 1732, after becoming involved with some religious who desired that a new institute be founded, he founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly called the Redemptorists. The order's charism was of preaching popular missions both in the city and the countryside, especially slums and poor areas.
Eventually, he grew sicker and his activities slowed, but he was appointed Bishop of Sant'Agata dei Goti (after years of refusing the episcopate). Always of high-strung and naturally anxious disposition, the lax and untended state of his new diocese caused him much anguish and grief. Performing both spiritual and corporal works of mercy to an utmost degree, he also wrote masterpieces of theology, including Summa Theologiae Moralis, which is considered the greatest work on the subject ever. He also suffered much physically, including rheumatic arthritis, an illness which made even the celebration of Mass difficult. In his last years, scandals and political intrigues rent his order apart, and, to his terrible sorrow, made him an enemy of the very order he founded. He spent his remaining years in solitude and penance, dying a seeming disgrace in the eyes of many who had betrayed him. And yet within a decade he was declared venerable, and, after canonization, was declared a Doctor of the Church within a century.
Resonating throughout his life is the profound sense of sin and its awfulness that St. Alphonsus undoubtedly felt and from which he longed to save his flock. And yet, though St. Alphonsus could be a terrible and grave man to hear, it was only from the most unique tenderness and subtlety of his heart that such words could spring. For "out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaketh," and St. Alphonsus's heart was only filled to the brim with genuine desire for innocence and purity of heart in all his spiritual children. It is worth noting he never refused absolution to anyone. There is no better teacher on moral theology to ever grace the Church than St. Alphonsus Liguori. Let this sizeable biography introduce you to the piety and sanctity of one who was a true teacher of the Lord's truth.
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 400 pages
Heroic Catholic Chaplains
Stories of the Brave and Holy Men Who Dodged Bullets While Saving Souls
by Thomas J. Craughwell
For nearly 200 years—standing alongside our heroic military men and women—have been heroic Catholic priests risking their lives to carry wounded soldiers to safety and to console, anoint, and absolve the dying. Heroic Catholic Chaplains spotlights the stories of these courageous, selfless, holy priests who volunteered to bring the Mass and the sacraments to American troops, while also offering them their friendship and spiritual counsel.
In this book, you’ll encounter… Father William Corby, who left his post at Notre Dame to serve the Irish Brigade during all four years of the Civil War; Father Francis Duffy, a World War I chaplain whose story became the subject of a Hollywood movie; Father Aloysius Schmitt, who, during the attack on Pearl Harbor, saved the lives of a dozen men before losing his own; Monsignor James O’Neill, who composed the famous “Weather Prayer” for General Patton, an incident that would be immortalized in film, if not entirely accurately; Father Emil Kapaun, who, during months in a North Korean prison camp, worked tirelessly to save the lives and the souls of his fellow POWs (the process that could lead to Father Kapaun being declared a saint is underway); Father Vincent Capodanno, who was killed by the Viet Cong as he ran to help a wounded corpsman; And more!
Heroic Catholic Chaplains brings to the fore the stories of remarkable priests, most of whom have been overlooked by both military and Catholic historians. Their sacrifice and courage are difficult to imagine. They served so that our servicemen and women would not be without comfort, or without a friend, or be deprived of the Mass and the sacraments; so they would not fall into despair. These chaplains deserve to be remembered, their stories told, and their memories honored.
Hardback, size 8.75" x 5.6", 216 pages
The Sermons of St. Francis de Sales for Lent
Given in the Year 1622
by St Francis de Sales
One of the most profoundly influential and deeply inspirational saints in the last five centuries of the Church, St. Francis de Sales is famous for his personality and writings, which have earned him, respectively, the appellation "The Gentleman Saint" and the designation Doctor of the Church.
De Sales’s tempered and gentle yet firm and determined approach to spiritual direction made him a true pearl of great price in the Church’s spiritual patrimony. No one ever mastered the doctoring of souls quite like this gentle Doctor of the Church—as countless saints formed by his legacy will attest. His Marian devotion and dedication to educating the laity by means of modern communication (at that time, leaflets) placed him ahead of his time, and his erudition combined with his sweetness mark him as a highly unusual man in the story of the Church, particularly during his time.
As a bishop of the Church, St. Francis was emboldened by the charism of preaching the Word of God in a truly apostolic manner. In this volume of The Sermons of St. Francis de Sales: For Lent, the Gentle Saint preaches twelve sermons, given during Lent 1622, on key aspects of the Christian life. Chief is St. Francis's treatment of the virtue of mortification: Through fasting, abstinence, and almsgiving, we can learn to resist temptation, avoid losing our souls, live the faith, approach death with a Christian attitude, conduct ourselves properly in illness, and live in mutual charity. In addition, of special interest is the master of meditation's exposition on Our Lord's Passion. Let St. Francis teach you the way to eternal happiness through the toils and labors of Lent, which can be all joy if done for love of God.
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 256 pages
by Mike Aquilina
Times change, but human nature does not. Neither do the daily struggles that all Christians experience in their walk with the Lord. Today as two thousand years ago we fight anger, pride, lust, spiritual sloth. Now as then we strive to be more diligent in prayer, more faithful to the commandments, more patient and charitable toward others. And in our time, no less than in the earliest centuries of Christianity, we need wise guidance to direct us on the road to holiness.
In A Year with the Church Fathers, popular Patristics expert Mike Aquilina gathers the wisest, most practical teachings and exhortations from the Fathers of the Church, and presents them in a format perfect for daily meditation and inspiration. The Fathers were the immediate inheritors of the riches of the Apostolic Age, and their intimacy with the revelation of Jesus Christ is beautifully evident throughout their theological and pastoral writings: a profound patrimony that is ours to read and cherish and profit from.
Learn to humbly accept correction from St. Clement of Rome. Let Tertullian teach you how to clear your mind before prayer. Read St. Gregory the Great and deepen your love for the Eucharist. Do you suffer from pain or illness? St. John Chrysostom's counsels will refresh you. Do you have trouble curbing your appetite for food and other fleshly things? St. John Cassian will teach you the true way to moderation and self-control.
A Year with the Church Fathers is different from a study guide, and more than a collection of pious passages. It is a year-long retreat that in just a few minutes every day will lead you on a cycle of contemplation, prayer, resolution, and spiritual growth that is guaranteed to bring you closer to God and His truth. From the Church Fathers we should expect nothing less.
Beautiful gift edition, with two-tone ultra soft leatherette cover, ribbon marker, and designed interior pages, size 8.5" x 5.5", 365 pages
by Michael Davies
A short, authoritative, enthralling history of the Roman Mass from the Last Supper to the "Tridentine Mass" as said today. Covers Low Mass, Sacramentaries, other Western Rites, etc. Highlights the reforms of Popes St. Gregory the Great (590-604) and St. Pius V (1566-1572). Says neither "reform" produced a "new" liturgy.
Booklet, size 6" x 3.75", 53 pages
by St Augustine of Hippo
“The kingdom of heaven is the perfect and highest wisdom of the rational soul . . . in which only the righteous and holy shall reign.” — Saint Augustine
Step onto the mount and listen as one of Christianity’s greatest theologians, the Doctor Gratiae —“Doctor of Grace”—unlocks the mysteries of Christ’s Sermon on the Mount.
With elegance and depth, St. Augustine reveals the eternal relevance of this sacred discourse, guiding readers toward a life rooted in humility, righteousness, and divine love. From the Beatitudes, to the “Our Father”, and the call to be “the light of the world”, Augustine’s insights bridge the Gospel’s divine truth with the human longing for purpose and peace.
Whether you, dear readers, are seeking spiritual renewal or theological enrichment, St. Augustine’s commentaries on Our Lord’s Sermon on the Mount are a beacon of light for all who long to follow Christ’s path of holiness.
Paperback, size 7" x 5", 325 pages
Including Prayers and Promises of the Seven Sorrows of Mary
by The Benedictine Convent of Clyde
“Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, 'Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.'” (Luke 1:34-35).
The beautiful and spiritually enriching practice of devotion to the Sorrowful Mother will be illuminated for you in this powerfully written, pocket-sized booklet.
Although many Catholics today have forgotten about the great sorrows of Our Lady, her role as sorrowing mother grows ever more important with the increasing evils of the modern world. This booklet explains more about Our Lady’s sorrows than most Catholics will ever know. It shows you that being devoted to Mary is to grow in love for her and to obtain many special blessings for ourselves in this life and in the next—particularly, the graces that will be bestowed at the hour of our death, as we pray in the Hail Mary every day.
Based on Sacred Scripture, Holy Tradition, and the writings of the saints, this booklet outlines the four special favors promised to those who meditate on Our Lady’s tears and sorrows. Included to enrich your prayer life and deepen your devotion are many relevant prayers:
- The Stabat Mater
- The Litany of the Sorrowful Mother
- Seven prayers for the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin
- And many more!
Booklet, size 6" x 3.75", 80 pages
My Confession Book
by Sr. M. Andrine Welters, OSB
Are your children about to make their first confession or looking for a better understanding of the sacrament? First published in 1958, give them all the instruction they need with this timeless, best-selling work: My Confession Book.
Still relevant and fruitful today, this booklet is still one of the best resources to help children understand the sacrament of Reconciliation.
Inside you will find:
- Preparation for confession
- The conditions necessary to receive the sacrament worthily
- An examination of conscience based on the Ten Commandments and Catholic teaching
- Instructions for how to make a good confession
- Instructions for what to say and do in the confessional
- The Act of Contrition
- Instructions for after confession
- Suggestions for prayer after confession and for the reception of Holy Communion
All of the essential and most important parts of making a good confession are described clearly and with detail. The beautiful illustrations and simple instructions make this small booklet perfect for children making their first confession or wanting a better understanding of the sacrament.
The instructions, prayers, and lessons in this book are ones that your child will never forget, and that they will be happy to have access to through this booklet. They will return to them again and again as a source of guidance in their spiritual life. There is no better resource to give your child while they pursue the graces bestowed by the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
“He that has My Commandments and keeps them, he it is that loves Me.” (John 14:21)
Booklet, size 6" x 3.75", 48 pages
by St. Alphonsus Liguori
St. Alphonsus Liguori, the Prince of Moral Theologians, was one of the greatest preachers in Church history. A religious founder, far-reaching theologian, and holy man of God, St. Alphonsus never fails to utter a stirring word that draws out a lively penitence and redoubled dedication to the work of God from his audience. He was also a great mariologist and a devout son of Our Lady (his congregation eventually gained custody of the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help). One of the great doctors of the Church, in The Glories of Mary, he assembled the finest information on Our Lady from the many writings of the saints, holy authors, and Sacred Scripture.
The Glories of Mary is five complete books in one volume. The first book examines the words of the Salve Regina and shows how God has given Mary to mankind to be the Gate of Heaven. The second book explains Our Lady's principal feasts and reveals fresh truths about these mysteries. The third book explains the Seven Sorrows of Mary and why Our Lady's martyrdom was longer and greater than that of all other martyrs. The fourth book describes ten different virtues of Our Lady, and the fifth book provides dozens of famous prayers, meditations, and devotions to her.
Included are the theological proofs for the Immaculate Conception, explanations of the invocations in the Litany of Loreto, and a description of Our Lady's death. The Glories of Maryis the greatest compendium of nearly eighteen centuries of teaching on Our Lady and seeks to lead many souls to a greater love of Jesus through a more intimate knowledge of Mary and her exalted role in our salvation. To this end, St. Alphonsus quotes many Fathers and Doctors of the Church, including St. Bonaventure, who wrote, "No one can enter Heaven unless by Mary, as though through a door." St. Alphonsus explains that Mary is the Gate of Heaven, the portal through which mankind meets the Divine in Jesus Christ.
"Out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaketh," and St. Alphonsus's heart was only filled to the brim with genuine desire for innocence and purity of heart in all his spiritual children, most especially through devotion to the Blessed Mother. Writing to defend her against impious attacks and diminishments of Marian devotion, St. Alphonsus shows that devotion to Our Lady is a most certain mark of eternal salvation. His words gives profound encouragement and firm hope for eternal victory through Mary; the Mother of God—who can obtain from her Divine Son anything she asks.
Paperback, size 8.5" x 5.5", 672 pages