In Rooted in Love, Donna-Marie engages her readers in her intimate, conversational way, which makes you feel as if you are chatting with a close friend over coffee or tea, sitting in front of the fireplace in your living room. There is a warmth and naturalness that comes across in her writing, which draws the reader into her story. Her unique brand of feminine spirituality, nurtured by Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Venerable John Hardon, gently guides the reader spiritually through chapters on discovering: who they are in Christ, how Christ works in their lives, how they can find Christ in others, and the joy of Christ. Following each chapter are questions for reflection to help the woman explore the multiple dimensions of her personhood - her mind, heart, soul, and body.
Rooted in Love beautifully unravels the truths of the Catholic faith as they relate to the whole woman and shows her how to use them for her own benefit and for the benefit of those she encounters in her life - family, friends, co-workers, acquaintances, and even total strangers. Rooted in Love is lovingly sprinkled with: saint quotes from some of my favorite saints, Scripture quotes, and excerpts from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and papal documents. Donna explains everything clearly and thoroughly, applying it all in practical, down-to-earth ways you can use in your everyday life.
Although I enjoyed the entire book, my favorite part was Chapter 7 - "In My Struggles." I think we all have a tendency to think that others - especially those who are successful in their careers, like Donna-Marie - are probably much better off than we are and have not had to deal with the really difficult, painful situations we have had to face in our lives. This chapter dispels those myths. Donna shares some rather shocking, traumatic episodes in her life, which show that she writes with authority about suffering and struggles. She uses her own examples and advice to help us deal with our own trials and tribulations and to fill our hearts with hope.
Rooted in Love: Our Calling as Catholic Women was written primarily for women - married, single, divorced, widowed--but I believe that men could profit from reading this book, too. I think it would help them to understand a woman and her spirituality better. I believe that it is beneficial reading material for all adult women and would be a wonderful supplement for: adult education, Christian/Catholic women's groups, and book discussion groups. This is an excellent gift for all occasions. I highly recommend Rooted in Love: Our Calling as Catholic Women.
[By Jean M. Heimann, as seen on Amazon]
God bless you and yours!
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