Graphic novel illustrates God at work in the midst of war

(Observer photo / Gary Haughton)

By Megan Peterson | The Observer

The typical path of a seminarian involves years of study with fellow seminarians, growing in his faith and fellowship. 

But although 1940s seminarian Gereon Goldmann is first shown reading from his Bible at a campfire alongside other young men, it becomes clear that Goldmann’s path to priesthood is far from typical. 

In illustrated panels of somber blues and grays, Goldmann lays out his plight and that of his home, Germany: “The authorities rejected Christianity and the Catholic Church. They rejected their own humanity as well. When I was 22, and a seminarian, I was drafted into their ranks. I became a compulsory Nazi.” 

Children’s books for summer showcase saints, adventure

(CNS composite) 

These are among books suitable for kids’ summer reading according to Catholic News Service reviewer Regina Lordan.

“Carlo Acutis: God’s Computer Genius” by Ellen Labrecque, illustrated by Dan Wegendt. Pauline Books and Media (Boston, 2021). 63 pp., $21.95.

Carlo Acutis is one of the only teenagers on the path to sainthood. Born in 1991, he lived his short life focusing his interests and talents toward doing God’s work — in person and online. 

He was a humble evangelizer through his example of being a joyful student who played soccer and the saxophone and who served the poor in his home city of Milan, Italy. 

Laden with sidebars about geography and the sacraments, “Carlo Acutis: God’s Computer Genius” also includes graphics, photographs and illustrations. Ages 9-13.

Scriptural sleuth: Paradoxical priest character enlivens Canadian writer's fiction

(CNS photo/ courtesy Mark Quinn)
Anne Emery

By Mike Mastromatteo | Catholic News Service

Canadian writer Anne Emery admits that it was the beauty of traditional sacred music that led her from an indifferent practice of the faith to a new appreciation of the eucharistic celebration and the dedication and service of priests.

It’s a transition the author describes masterfully through her character Father Brennan Burke, the wily protagonist who shows up in the majority of her crime and mystery stories.