Prepare for visit of Pope Benedict with CTS

Pope Benedict XVI - image CTS

There are just a few weeks to go before Pope Benedict begins his historic visit to Scotland and England. CTS has produced a beautiful range of new books, leaflets and pamphlets to help parishes, families and individuals prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime event.

For an introductory reader, Benedict XVI by Helena Scott and Ethel Tolansky, (£1.95) offers a short biography. A Pope of Surprises by the same authors (£1.95 gives a history of the first five years of Pope Benedict's papacy. Despite gloomy predictions Benedict has surprised everyone by traveling widely, speaking to millions and writing on a vast range of subjects with the aim of making God truly known and loved.

The Pope in Britain (£1.95) is a selection of prayers, devotions and reflections for use by families or groups. A Newman Prayer Book, (£1.95) compiled by the Oratory Fathers is a selection of brief extracts from Newman's Meditations and Devotions, as well as some prayers taken from his unpublished work and a Novena.

BOOKS FOR CHILDREN

There is also a selection of beautifully illustrated books for children. Friendship with Jesus (£9.95 hardback) by Amy Welborn, records the conversations which Pope Benedict had with a group of young children. Why Does the Pope Wear White and other Questions (£3.95) makes a good read for grown ups as well as children. My two favourites are Benedict and Chico (£7.95 hardback) and its sequel Max and Benedict (£7.95) The first one tells the story of the Holy Father as seen by his cat Chico, from his life in a small town in Bavaria to his arrival in Rome. Continuing this theme, in Max and Benedict a small bird who lives in the Vatican observes the busy life of Holy Father.

THE MIND OF POPE BENEDICT

Ten Things Pope Benedict Wants You to Know (£1.95) gives a brief exploration of the major themes of his pontificate, and makes a good introduction to the three Encyclicals: Deus Caritas Est - God is Love; Spe Salvi on Hope; and Caritas in Veritate - a consideration of the social challenges facing today's world and a call to respond to these with true charity.

CTS has also published a number of booklets of Pope Benedict's homilies and reflections; and booklets and leaflets on Cardinal Newman.

To see the whole list, visit: www.cts-online.org.uk

CTS books are available in all good church bookshops, many churches. For advice on what to order, call the Customer Service Team on 020 7640 0042 (overseas: +44 20 7640 0042)