This is not an exhaustive list of books and resources. I will add to it as more books etc cross my path.
Sherry Weddell – Forming Intentional Disciples – The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus
Forming Intentional Disciples by Sherry Weddell explores how Catholics can transform their faith communities by fostering intentional discipleship. Weddell highlights that many Catholics participate in the Church without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, which is essential for vibrant faith and mission. She outlines a “thresholds” model of spiritual development, guiding individuals from initial trust to intentional discipleship. Key themes include the importance of personal encounters with Christ, creating environments where questions of faith are welcomed, and equipping laypeople to discern and live out their unique callings. Weddell calls the Church to prioritise evangelisation, relational ministry, and the formation of missionary disciples. ISBN-10: 1612785905
Russell Shaw – Catholic Laity in the Mission of the Church: Living Out Your Lay Vocation
In Catholic Laity and the Mission of the Church, Russell Shaw examines the essential role of the laity in the Church’s mission. He critiques a widespread misunderstanding of the laity as merely passive participants and stresses their active responsibility in evangelising and sanctifying the secular world. Drawing on Vatican II teachings, Shaw highlights the lay vocation as distinct yet complementary to ordained ministry. He stresses the need for laypeople to embrace their baptismal call to holiness and mission, transforming society by living out their faith in everyday life. The book calls for a deeper collaboration between clergy and laity to effectively carry out the Church’s mission in the modern world. ISBN-13: 978-1494996284
Herbert Alphonso – Discovering Your Personal Vocation
Discovering Your Personal Vocation by Herbert Alphonso, SJ, focuses on helping individuals discern their unique, God-given mission in life. Alphonso emphasises that every person has a personal vocation—a distinct calling that reflects their identity and purpose within God’s plan. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, the book provides practical guidance for identifying this vocation through prayer, self-reflection, and openness to the Holy Spirit. Alphonso encourages readers to align their choices and actions with their vocation, leading to a more fulfilling and Christ-centered life. The book highlights the transformative power of living out one’s personal calling as a path to holiness and service. ISBN-13 978-0809140442
Josh Miller & Luke Burgis – Unrepeatable: Cultivating the Unique Calling of Every Person
Unrepeatable: Cultivating the Unique Calling of Every Person by Josh Miller and Luke Burgis explores the concept of personal vocation, emphasising that every individual is uniquely created by God with a distinct purpose. The authors advocate for a cultural shift in education, leadership, and ministry that prioritizes discovering and nurturing the unique calling of each person. Drawing on personal stories, psychological insights, and Catholic teaching, they offer practical tools for discernment and mentorship. The book challenges institutions to focus on human dignity and formation, inspiring individuals to embrace their unrepeatable role in God’s plan and live lives of meaningful contribution. ISBN-13 : 978-1947792685
Secular Saints – 250 Canonized and Beatified Lay Men, Women and Children
Secular Saints: 250 Canonized and Beatified Lay Men, Women and Children by Joan Carroll Cruz highlights the lives of lay Catholics who achieved holiness in their ordinary lives. The book profiles a diverse array of saints and blesseds—men, women, and children from various cultures and historical periods—showing how they responded to God’s call in their unique circumstances. Through their stories, Cruz demonstrates that sainthood is not limited to clergy or religious but is attainable for everyone. The book serves as an inspiring resource for laypeople, offering practical examples of how to live out the universal call to holiness in everyday life. ISBN-13 : 978-0895556585
Discerning your vocation – a Catholic Guide for Young Adults
The book Discerning Your Vocation: A Catholic Guide for Young Adults, authored by members of the Community of the Beatitudes, provides a practical and spiritual framework to help young adults navigate the process of discerning their personal vocation. This guide is designed to be approachable and adaptable, allowing readers to progress at their own pace. Through reflection, prayer, and patience, the book encourages readers to embrace the unique path God has prepared for them, fostering a deeper understanding of their calling and how it aligns with their happiness and purpose in life. Available on Kindle
Sherry Weddell and Fr Michael Sweeney O.P – The Parish: Mission or Maintenance?
The Parish: Mission or Maintenance? by Sherry Weddell and Fr Michael Sweeney, O.P., explores the role of the parish in the Church’s mission. The authors critique a maintenance-focused approach to parish life, which often prioritises institutional preservation over evangelisation and spiritual growth. They argue that parishes must reclaim their missionary identity, forming intentional disciples who actively share their faith. The article stresses the importance of leadership, the empowerment of the laity, and fostering a culture of encounter with Christ. By shifting from maintenance to mission, parishes can become vibrant centres of evangelisation, renewal, and community transformation. The article is available in the archive section of the Siena Institute website at www.siena.org
Online Courses
- Alpha
- Ascension
- CaFE (Catholic Faith Exploration)
- Evangelium
- Grassroots Films
- Nua
- Symbolon
- Spirit Juice Studios
- Sycamore
- The Alpha Youth Series
- Real Life Catholic
- Ten Ten Resources
- The Why Course
- The Bible Timeline
- The Faithful Traveler
- Word on Fire
Articles on Personal Vocation
Here are some recommended articles on personal vocation, which can guide you in discovering and living out your unique calling:
- “Discovering Your Personal Vocation” – This article from Catholic Exchange delves into how personal vocation is not just about choosing a career but about discerning God’s will for your life, with a focus on spiritual growth, prayer, and discernment.
Read the article here. - “Living Your Personal Vocation” – Catholic Bridge offers insights into understanding personal vocation as it relates to life’s stages, including marriage, parenthood, or single life. It encourages viewing these circumstances as opportunities to live according to God’s call.
Read the article here. - “The Vocation of Every Christian” – This piece from The Catholic Apostolate Center explores the universal call to holiness and the specific role each person has in the Church’s mission, highlighting how personal vocation is connected to service and love for others.
Read the article here. - These articles provide various perspectives and tools for understanding and living out personal vocation in the context of the Catholic faith.