Graced Women: Inspirational Book Series

Reviewed by Brandon Jubar

"Many women today struggle with feelings of isolation, inequality, or imbalance in their lives. Other women simply need occasional affirmation that they are good and valuable people. This new series is designed for all women seeking such hope and inspiration. Through prose, poetry, and guided meditation, each book examines the life of a historical woman of grace and connects her story to the lives of contemporary women. These women, whether they are biblical figures or sainted or saintly women of historical or contemporary times, are our icons -- our role models -- in whom we may see God's grace in action and from whom we may draw strength."

So says the press release announcing the publication of two books by Resource Publications, an independent Catholic publisher based in San Jose, California. St. Scholastica: Graced Woman of Hope and Woman at the Well: Graced Woman of Joy, are the first two books in this thought-provoking new series designed to help woman today deal with many difficult issues through reflection, prayer, and action.

At around 50 pages each, these books are not in the least bit intimidating. In fact, they are refreshingly concise and lack the fluff that one often finds when authors feel the need to fill pages instead of hearts and minds. When used as a guide for personal reflection, there is ample time to think about the questions provided in each of the "Graced Time" sections. Many similar resources require so much reading that, by the time you're finished, you are too tired to do more than simply skim the reflection questions.

These books are also an excellent resource for women's retreats or to help those who focus on the pastoral care of women. Whether women are seeking equality and balance or are dealing with issues of isolation, these books will be eye-opening for many people. Additionally, each book contains an addendum with detailed suggestions for using the material at retreats or weekly prayer meetings, including sample prayer services and suggestions for music and environment.

The author, Judy Ritter, is a poet, born and raised in the Cajun culture of Southeast Louisiana. She earned a master's degree in education and French from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Judy's poems and short stories were published in an anthology entitled Ordinary and Sacred As Blood: Alabama Women Speak. She has taught in secondary schools and colleges and served for six years as director of religious education at St. James Catholic Church in Gadsden, Ala., where she facilitated retreats and workshops for youth and young adult groups. Currently, Judy is living in Altoona, Ala., with her husband, Andy. She is also an oblate of St. Benedict, affiliated with Sacred Heart Monastery, Cullman, Ala.