My Life with the Saints by James Martin, SJ

“With a mix of fascinating historical tidbits, deep spiritual insight, and first-class storytelling, Martin has produced one of the best treatments of the saints in recent memory.“  John L. Allen Jr., author of Conclave

You are invited to read My Life with the Saints by Fr. James Martin on your own or join any of the book discussions.  Gathering in small groups to pray, study and discuss is at the heart of being Christian. Come to all the sessions or just those you can. No registration required.  For more information please call the Saint Clement Rectory at 216-226-5116 or Saint James Parish Center at 216-712-6755.

Week 1 Read Chapters 8 – 10
  • Saturday, January 30 – 9:00am- 10:30am – Saint Clement Rectory
  • Sunday, January 31 – 5:00pm-6:30pm – Saint James Parish Center
  • Tuesday, February 2 – 7:00pm-8:30pm – Saint Clement Parish Hall
  • Wednesday, February 3 – 1:00pm-2:30pm – Saint James Parish Center
Discussion questions for week 3
  1. In upholding the dignity of each individual, Mother Teresa taught us what is possible between humans.  What struck you most about her approach?
  2. Were you surprised by Mother Teresa’s “dark night”?  Have you ever experienced something similar?  She eventually understood her desolation as a way of identifying with Jesus.  How do you deal with your desolation?
  3. “In developed countries there is a poverty of intimacy, a poverty of spirit,” Mother Teresa said.  Do you agree?  Why or why not?
  4. In general, do you find it easy or difficult to lead a Christian life?  Name one thing you find difficult about being Christian in today’s society as well as one easy thing about following Christ.
  5. According to Roncalli, Pope John XXIII, why was there a need for the Second Vatican Council?  What was his vision of the church?  Does it still exist?
  6. “Everything, even human differences, leads to greater good of the church,” Pope John XXIII said at a gathering of bishops from around the world.  Do you agree with this statement?
  7. Pope John XXIII was a joyful person with a good sense of humor.  Do laughter and playfulness play a part in your spiritual life?  How might humor bring us closer to God?
  8. Chastity and celibacy are two different things.  Describe the differences.  What is the central aim of both chastity and celibacy?
  9. Dorothy Day had an unswerving commitment to nonviolence.  What do you feel is the root cause of the culture of violence in our world today?  Do you believe you could help effect change in that culture?
  10. What was it about the Catholic worldview that appealed to Dorothy Day?