THE CATHOLIC SHELF ON RECONCILIATION | KAIROS GLOBAL | JUNE 2021

Author: Noel Benno Joseph

Noel Benno lists some of the best Catholic books on the Sacrament of Reconciliation. 

Lord Have Mercy: The Healing Power of Confession, Scott Hahn

An illuminating, reassuring explanation of the Catholic Church’s teachings on confession and forgiveness by bestselling author Scott Hahn. In this book, Hahn details the origins and history of the sacrament, dives into the covenantal connections related to confession, and also explains the best example we have of confession in the Bible – the Prodigal Son.

Confession - A Little Book for the Reluctant, Louis Gaston de Segur

A good little handbook discussing the many reasons we may give for not going to confession. It refutes all the excuses Catholics give for avoiding confession and explains the truth about the inestimable benefits of the sacrament and the graces we receive from formal confession of our sins. Although written in the 19th century it is just as relevant for us today.

Frequent Confession: It’s Place in the Spiritual Life, Benedict Baur

In his book Frequent Confession, Benedict Baur explains the purpose of frequent confession, outlines the essential elements of every good confession, and shows how frequent confession can help one conquer sin. Highly recommended as a source of inspiration to those practicing frequent confession/communion but have many questions in mind.

7 Secrets of Confession, Vinny Flynn

With a focus on the healing aspect of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and not just a way to receive forgiveness, Flynn gives plenty of thought provoking ideas to contemplate on through this book. If confession is something that you feel uncomfortable about, then this book iLord Have Mercy: The Healing Power of Confession, Scott Hahns for you! 

Healing of Memories - Prayers & Confession, Dennis and Mathew Linn

A little book emphasising the power of Christian prayer on healing past hurts. This book too holds up the healing power/aspect of forgiveness, with ample stress on the virtue of gratitude. The book has a significant charismatic nature, and is unique in its approach by laying out a simple six step approach to healing ones memories of past hurts.

The Secret of Confession: Including the Wonders of Confession, Paul O'Sullivan

In this timeless classic by Fr. Sullivan, one will find a host of true stories about confession plus quotations on confession from Holy Scripture and from the saints of the early Church. It describes with great warmth and love the Sacrament of Confession—that spiritual tonic by which God both raises up great and heroic saints and also leads countless ‘ordinary’ Catholics to a remarkable purity of heart in this life.

Escape from Evil's Darkness, Robert Spitzer

In this fascinating read, Father Spitzer guides readers through the workings of moral transformation, with detailed sketches of all the cardinal and theological virtues, especially love. Using insights from Saint Ignatius of Loyola, as well as from modern psychology, Escape from Evil’s Darkness concludes with an in-depth study of the sacrament of confession and the staggering power of God’s loving mercy.

How to Make a Good Confession, John A Kane

This little handbook gives readers practical methods to start consistently winning their battles against sin. The readings though a bit dense offers excellent examination of conscience if you’re working on failings & omissions rather than needing a comprehensive list of mortal sins.

Pardon and Peace: A Sinner's Guide to Confession, Fr. Francis Randolph

An introduction to the theology and practice of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, this book is a great read both for those who regularly avail themselves of this wonderful sacrament and for those who have not been to confession in a very long time. The heart of the book, though is an experienced priest sharing his thoughts on different themes in Catholic life with opinions are clearly infused with love and with a genuine desire to see people be happy.

Return to God: Confession Handbook, Charles Michael

Primarily a handbook to help the lay Catholic make a good confession, this book supports the case for confession with over 800 references to the Holy Bible and other Catholic resources. An ideal book for teachers of the faith, retreat preachers, religious, and all lay Catholics interested in knowing the truth about confession and its roots in Sacred Scriptures.

The Light is On for You, Cardinal Donald Wuerl 

With a generous host of anecdotes that one can always relate to, Cardinal Wuerl has put together a wonderful encouragement for all of us to take full advantage of the mercy of God. In a writing style that is conversational, this quick and short read will help the inquirers, the fallen away Catholics, or even the average Sunday Catholic arrive at a newfound love for the sacrament of Confession. 

12. YOUCAT: Confession, Youcat Foundation

The YOUCAT Confession book is a practical guide created for young people to take away undue anxiety about the sacrament, and to show how it works. It gives all the practical help needed for making a good confession, including how to make a good examination of conscience, special prayers for confession, what is true contrition, spiritual growth with confession, and more !