Wednesday 4 January 2017

Missionary Handbook Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy - Michael E. Gaitley

Missionary Handbook
Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy 
Michael E. Gaitley
Marian Press
ISBN 9781596143388



My introduction to Father Michael E. Gaitley's writing last year was his contribution to Beautiful Mercy edited by Matthew Kelly. Since that time I have read five books by him and plan on reading the rest. His writing style is very engaging. It is easy to read his books, his passion for the subjects of Marian Consecration and Divine Mercy are highly contagious. And in many ways this book is a synthesis of all of his other works. But in this small volume Father Gaitley pack's a lot of punch. 

As is obvious by the title the main purpose of the book is as a Missionary Handbook, focusing on the Identify, Spirituality, Missions, Essential Formation, and Plan of Life for the Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy (MMDM). The book is available for free through their website you just have to pay shipping and handling. 

The Sections in the book are:
Part One: MMDM Identity, Spirituality, Mission
The Basics
Level One Participation (M1)
Level Two Participation (M2)
Level Three Participation (M3)
Part Two: Essentials of Formation
The Super-Concept of Communion
Marian Consecration
Divine Mercy
Part Three: Plan of Life
Outline
The Details
Cheat Sheets
Conclusion: the MMDM Commitment

This book makes extensive reference to 5 of Michael's other books. It also Focuses on the HAPP Hearts Afire Parish-based Programs. In the introduction Father Gaitley states: "Alright, so whether you've already completed HAPP, read all the books, or are just getting started, whether you're already a Marian Missionary, want to join, or are still thinking about it - this handbook is for you. May it bless you during the present time of mercy for the Church and the world, a time of grace that we'll learn about in Part one." If you are already a fan of Father Gaitley's work you will love this book. If you have not done any of his book or DVD teaching series this book will be an amazing overview of his teachings. Having worked through two of his retreat books with groups I can say that any of his writings will enhance your spiritual life. But this booklet pulls it all together; the key prayers, the Plan of Life, the why. All bound tightly in fewer than 130 pages of text. 

This book would also be great for anyone wanting a quick overview of Marian Spirituality. With specific focus on consecration to Mary and the Divine Mercy practice. This is an incredible book and as mentioned you can get it for free! So why would you not give it a read and see what impact it can have on your spiritual life!

Other books about Divine Mercy and Saint Faustina:
52 Weeks with Saint Faustina - Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

Books by Michael E. Gaitley:
33 Days to Morning Glory
33 Days to Merciful Love
40 Days to Mercy
Consoling the Heart of Jesus
Divine Mercy Explained
The Divine Mercy Image Explained
The One Thing Is Three
The Second Greatest Story Ever Told
You Did It To Me
Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy Missionary Handbook
Nine Days to Joseph: A Novena in Preparation for Consecration to St. Joseph

DVD Series by Father Michael E. Gaitley:
Divine Mercy In The Second Greatest Story Ever Told
You Did It to Me: Putting Mercy Into Action
33 Days to Morning Glory - Group Retreat
Consoling The Heart Of Jesus - Group Retreat
Wisdom And Works Of Mercy - Group Study Dvd

Contributed to:
Beautiful Mercy
Divine Mercy for Moms

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!

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