A downloadable list of the most current Bible Studies and Faith Building Resources is available at the link below. These resources are being used in parishes throughout the Diocese. Many of these resources are available for free rental from the Office of Catechesis and Evangelization. For information, contact us at 608-791-2658.
click on this title: Study Programs on the Eucharist for Fall
Proven Resources used in Parishes
A Biblical Walk through the Mass by Edward Sri
Five-part study with leader and participant workbook and book. This series explores the biblical roots of the words and gestures we experience in Mass and explains their profound significance. Multiple sets of DVDs available from the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization for free rental or for purchase of Leader’s Guide and Participant Booklet from Ascension Press atascensionpress.com/collections/a-biblical-walk-through-the-mass
Presence: The Mystery of the Eucharist by the Augustine Institute
Four-part series with leader and participant workbook. Presence explores the radical mystery of God’s love expressed in the Eucharist and shows how in this Sacrament God is really present to help and strengthen us at every step of life’s journey. By diving into the story of God’s love for His people in Scripture and the Church’s teaching on this Sacrament, Presence invites each one of us into a deeper, more intimate union with God. One set of DVDs available for free rental from the Office for Catechesis & Evangelization or for purchase from the Augustine Institute augustineinstitute.org/program-categories/eucharist-presence
Lectio: Eucharist by Dr. Brant Pitre
Ten-part series with leader and participant workbooks. The Biblical roots of the Eucharist, through its foreshadowing in the miraculous events of the Old Testament, the Gospels, and Apostolic teaching. One set of DVDs is available for free rental from the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization and also available on FORMED. For purchase from Augustine Institute, visit lectiostudy.org/eucharist
Eucharist by Bishop Robert Barron
Five-part study with leader and participant workbook. Experience for yourself the profound mystery of the Eucharist as Sacred Meal, Sacrifice and Real Presence. These elements unite the Church across time and unite us to our fellow Catholics in every sacred liturgy. One set of DVD’s for free rental available from the Office for Cat. & Evang. or available for purchase from Word on Fire bookstore.wordonfire.org/collections/eucharist
The Mass, by Bishop Robert Barron
Seven-part study with leader and participant workbook Walk through the Holy Mass with Bishop Barron and be transformed through insights on this most privileged and intimate encounter with our Lord Jesus Christ. See how the Mass brings us out of the fallen world and into the Heavenly realm, how it resonates with a call from God and a response from His people, the Church, and most importantly, how we are intimately joined with the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus through the Holy Eucharist. The Mass will help you understand how to fully, consciously, and actively participate in the source and summit of the Christian life. Free rental from the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization or for purchase from Word on Fire https://store.wordonfire.org/collections/the-mass
Living Joy by Chris Stefanick Eleven-part series with downloadable resource. God created you for JOY—and He wants that for you here and now! You just have to cooperate with His plan and follow some simple steps. Join us for a new, totally free online video retreat based on the life-changing rules in Chris’ bestselling book, Living Joy. The short, daily video lessons are full of wisdom, experience, and common sense. Text Joy to 44144 or visit coaching.reallifecatholic.com/living-joy.
Father: Origin and Desire of All by Dr. Petroc Willey (Like a Retreat) Beautiful teaching about our Heavenly Father with discussion questions that follow each short video. This workshop contains 3, 1-hour sessions. Available on Franciscan at Home online learning system. All parishes and schools in the Diocese of La Crosse have a FREE subscription.
- To register, visit franciscanathome.com/diocese-la-crosse and scroll to the bottom of the page.
- On the right, click on the middle blue button: “My parish or school is already registered, and I would like to set up my individual free account under that institution.” This will allow you to create a FREE account under your Parish or school.
- Then click “Create an Account.” Complete the information and click Save. Select the Diocese of La Crosse from a drop-down menu, and then your Institution = your parish / school from a second drop-down menu, listed by city and name. Once you have finished by clicking on the “Sign Up” button, you will have a dashboard. Scroll down to “Institution Tracks” and click “Adult Faith Study.” Under Courses of Study, click on “Adult Faith Study” and then “Father: Origin and Desire of All.“
WHO AM I TO JUDGE? Responding to Relativism with Logic and Love by Edward Sri How do we talk about morality in a world that no longer believes in truth? When we’re bombarded with messages of “Be tolerant!” and “Don’t judge!” many people fee afraid to say anything is right or wrong. 8-part study program. Available for free rental and on FORMED. Dr. Edward Sri will speak at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Onalaska on Tues., Oct. 12, 2021 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. and at St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral on Wed, Oct. 13, 2021 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
The Search hosted by Chris Stefanick, 7 compelling episodes. For information and the first episode, visit thesearchbegins.org Brief intro to all the sessions are also available at this link.
How God Guides Us by Ann and Carol Lankford, 9 sessions and each include a teaching, a Scripture story of how God guided a person in this way and two modern-day stories of a man and woman who experienced God’s guidance in this manner. Downloadable at diolc.org/deeper
Catholic Christian Outreach Faith Study Series, 5 booklets. This compelling resource for small parish groups is available through Cedar House. To hear a recording of a Diocesan priest and 3 facilitators who describe their experience in the parish, visit diolc.org/catechesis/recordings-for-your-ministry
OREMUS (Latin for Let Us Pray) by Father Mark Toups – Outstanding 8 sessions, each including 30 minute DVD presentation and discussion. This is a Catholic prayer study program in which Fr. Toups teaches the essentials of a fruitful prayer life including compelling personal stories. Available for free rental from Office of C & E. Participant booklet is necessary. Cost of workbooks is $15 each.
Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father by Fr. Donald Callaway, MIC. Recognize the wonders, the power and the ceaseless of St. Joseph. Visit shopmercy.org for books.
Lectio: Evangelization and the Acts of the Apostles by Dr. Mary Healy Ten-part series with participant workbook. Insightful Biblical study with Church teaching and practical advice to show how modern Catholics can effectively impact their world for Jesus Christ. Materials available on FORMED or for purchase.
Blessed Are You: Living the Beatitudes by Christopher Ruff 6 sessions with inspiring real-life stories that illustrate each Beatitude, making them come alive with meaning and relevance. Stimulating questions take participants into a shared experience of following Jesus and building His Kingdom in the world today. To preview the book, visit www.diolc.org/faith-alive. To order at the diocesan price of $10 each, contact the Office for Ministries and Social Concerns by emailing ministries@diolc.org or calling 608-791-0161
New: No Greater Love, a Biblical Walk through Christ’s Passion with Edward Sri and also features Fr. Mike Schmitz, Jeff Cavins, Jennifer Fulwiler, Curtis Martin, Teresa Tomeo, Fr. Josh Johnson and Elizabeth Sri DVD Program / Starter Pack for $79. Ascension Press Filmed on location in the Holy Land, No Greater Love is a biblical pilgrimage that reveals Christ’s amazing love for us. Edward Sri guides you through the last hours of Christ’s life. You will walk step-by-step with Jesus from the Garden of Gethsemane to the Mount of Calvary. Every step of the way, Old Testament prophecies, messianic expectations, biblical symbolism, and historical context shed light on the mystery of Christ’s suffering and death. Catholics can come to a deeper understanding and appreciation of God’s immeasurable and unconditional love for drawing closer to Jesus than ever before.
Faith Study Resources
New: Jesus: The Way, the Truth and the Life by Jeff Cavins, Edward Sri and Marcel D’Ambrosia through Ascension Press 10-part study on the life of Christ filmed in the Holy Land For purchase through Ascension Press, shipping Feb. 9th. Starter pack $130.
WHO AM I TO JUDGE? Responding to Relativism with Logic and Love by Edward Sri How do we talk about morality in a world that no longer believes in truth? When we’re bombarded with messages of “Be tolerant!” and “Don’t judge!” many people fee afraid to say anything is right or wrong. 8-part study program. Available for free rental and on FORMED
How God Offers Us Guidance, by Ann and Carol Lankford
How does somebody go about seeking guidance from God? How can we tell if it’s just us talking to ourselves or if we’re listening to God? These questions are answered through 8 sessions which will provide principles for knowing that God guides us as well as understanding how this guidance from God is given. The focus of the sessions includes such topics as how God offers us guidance in answer to our personal prayer, through the Scriptures and through other people. The materials for the 8 sessions includes a story from Scripture related to the topic and 2 modern-day stories of how God guided two people. Resources may be downloaded from the Diocesan website: https://diolc.org/deeper
Living the Discerning Life: The Spiritual Teaching of St. Ignatius of Loyola by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V. 10 sessions for fall; 10 sessions for spring. DVD set with discussion questions available from the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization. Each person faces discouragement in the spiritual life which is the greatest obstacle to deepening our relationship with Jesus Christ. St. Ignatius provides us with practical assistance in understanding the times of joy and struggle in the spiritual life and above all, spiritual tools for overcoming the pitfalls of discouragement and darkness. Fr. Gallagher presents the wisdom of St. Ignatius in a clear and accessible manner. This Program is for all who desire greater awareness of God’s action in their daily spiritual lives. DVD’s available for free rental or to purchase from http://www.frtimothygallagher.org/on-disc
Fulfilled: Uncovering the Biblical Foundations of Catholicism by Sonja Corbitt. Have you ever been unable to explain why Catholics believe what they do? Have you ever wondered why the Old Testament sounds so different from the New Testament? God began building a plan and laying a foundation for the beautiful traditions of the Catholic Faith in the Old Testament. It was fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament. Ascension Press
Sacraments
FORGIVEN, The Transforming Power of Confession by Augustine Institute 5 Sessions and a separate session for children, parents, catechists and parish staff. FORGIVEN explores the grace and healing offered in Confession and shows how this Sacrament of Mercy reveals the depth and bounty of God’s love. Available from Lighthouse Catholic Media and on FORMED.
REBORN: You, Your Child and the Heart of Baptism by Edward Sri 6-part DVD series with workbook on the Sacrament of Baptism. DVD’s available for free rental and on FORMED.
Beloved: Mystery and Meaning of Marriage. Finding Happiness in Marriage by Augustine Institute 6 part DVD series with workbook. More than a union based on romantic love or mutual fulfillment, marriage goes back to the very essence of what it is to be human – and reflects a design placed in our hearts by God Himself. BELOVED speaks to the very heart of every husband and wife, bringing Sacramental truth and God-infused love into the everyday challenges of married life. Available from Lighthouse Catholic Media and on FORMED.
Divine Mercy in the Second Greatest Story Ever Told by Fr. Michael Gaitley 10 sessions, including 25 minute DVD presentations. The Program interweaves the dramatic history of Poland, the transformative message of St. Faustina, the miraculous appearance of Mary at Fatima, the witness of St. Maximillian Kolbe, and the world-changing papacy of St. John Paul II into a tapestry of wonder and beauty centered around God’s mercy.
Symbolon: The Catholic Faith Explained with Dr. Edward Sri along with other compelling Catholic teachers. This new DVD series systematically presents the BIG picture of the Catholic Faith. Programs 1-10 focus on the foundational teachings of the Creed and Programs 11-20 focus on the Sacraments and Life in Christ. Filmed on location in Rome, the Holy Land, Calcutta, the beauty and brilliance of Catholicism is explained in a way that helps us know it, live it, and articulate it to others.
Catholicism: The New Evangelization by Father Robert Barron The documentary and study program focuses on the cultural obstacles the Church faces today and sends us on mission with a message of joy. 6 – 90 minutes sessions including 15-30 minute DVD segments. Reduced cost of DVDs, Leader’s Manual and prayers cards is $88. Available from the Office of Catechesis and Evangelization.
Conversion, Following the Call of Christ (Biblical Stories of People Who Changed) by Bishop Robert Barron. 6 – 90 minute sessions with questions for Understanding and Reflection. Free rental
The Mystery of God: Who God is and Why He Matters by Bishop Robert Barron 6 – part DVD series with workbook: Atheism is on the rise. Skeptical thinkers vigorously attack belief in God as irrational or, even worse, dangerous. The so-called New Atheism has attracted millions of young people. How should Christians respond? How can we turn the tide of secularism and draw people back to God?
Priest, Prophet, King by Bishop Robert Barron 6 – part DVD series with workbook: Through this presentation, participants will better understand Jesus, become more familiar with Scripture, and realize their own priestly, prophetic, and kingly mission.
CATHOLICISM Study Program by Bishop Barron (DVD) 20-90 minute sessions with discussion questions provided by the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization. Each parish was given the Program by Bishop Callahan. Catholicism (book) by Bishop Barron available for $3 each.
Bible Study Resources for Adults
Lectio: Peter by Dr. Tim Gray Ten-part Series with workbook. A fresh perspective on Simon Peter that is immediately informative and relevant to our lives. After all, if Jesus could bring out the very best in someone like Peter, then there is hope for the rest of us. Materials available on FORMED or for purchase.
Follow Me: Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John by Edward Sri An 8-part DVD series with workbook is your guide to a personal encounter with Christ. Jesus calls us to be His disciples, to trust Him, to open ourselves to His merciful love, and to love others as He has loved us. Follow Me invites us to experience the joy of a renewed friendship with Christ. DVDs available for free rental
A Biblical Walk through the Mass Study Program by Edward Sri A 5-part study (DVDs) that explores the biblical roots of the words and gestures we experience in Mass and explains their profound significance. Booklet and book sold as set for $16 from Office for Cat. and Evan. DVDs available for free rental or purchase of entire packet for $100.
Mary, A Biblical Walk with the Blessed Mother by Edward Sri 8 –part series that provide a uniquely personal encounter with the Blessed Mother, placing you in the midst of the powerful drama of her earthly life, taking you through her joys…and her sorrows. The better we know Mary, the better we will know her Son. Free leader resources available for download at BibleStudyForCatholics.com. Free rental. Workbook for participants
The Footprints of God Series by Stephen Ray. Discussion questions (Free rental) The Story of Salvation from Abraham to Augustine preview of the Program (11 minutes) Moses: Signs, Sacraments, Salvation with discussion questions 2 hours David & Solomon: Expanding the Kingdom with discussion questions 2 hours of credit Jesus: the Word became Flesh with discussion questions 2 hours of credit Mary: the Mother of God with discussion questions 2 hours of credit Peter: Keeper of the Keys with discussion questions 2 hours of credit Paul: Contending for the Faith with discussion questions 2 hours of credit Apostolic Fathers with discussion questions 2 hours of credit
A Quick Journey through the Bible by Jeff Cavins 8-Part Study (DVD) with workbook
The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation by Jeff Cavins 24-part Bible study with study questions (DVD) Available for free rental
Introduction to Psalms, the School of Prayer: by Jeff Cavins, Sarah Christmyer, and Dr. Tim Gray 10 Sessions on the DVD series with discussion questions: The Psalms reveal Israel’s response to God’s covenant and serve as a model for our response to Him. One could say that the Psalms tell the “inside” story, which comes from the deeply personal perspective of one who is seeking God. Available for free rental.
Matthew: The King and His Kingdom by Jeff Cavins 24-part study on the Gospel of Matthew with discussion questions (DVD)
Acts: The Spread of the Kingdom by Jeff Cavins 20-part study on the Acts of the Apostles with discussion questions (DVD)
Adventures in 1 Corinthians, the Church and the Christian Community by Dr. Tim Gray 10 Sessions on the DVD series with discussion questions: With divisions, immorality, persecution, and other trials of the faithful, the message of St. Paul to the Corinthians is a much-needed message for our times. St. Paul taught the Corinthians about the nature of grace, the Church as the Body of Christ and the most powerful gift of all, the Eucharist, which along with Christian virtue leads to a life of joy. Available for free rental.
Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come by Jeff Cavins 10-part study on the Book of Revelation with discussion questions (DVD)
Exodus: Called to Freedom by Jeff Cavins 10-part study on the Book of Exodus with discussion questions (DVD)
Bible Study Resources for Teens and Young Adults
T3 – The Teen Timeline (excellent!) by Mark Hart 8-Part Bible Study for Teens and Young Adults (DVD) Worksheets, discussion questions and resources provided by the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization
T3 – Thy Kingdom Come: Matthew by Mark Hart 8-Part Study on the Gospel of Matthew for Teens and Young Adults (DVD). Worksheets, discussion questions and resources provided by the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization
T3: Acts – The Keys and the Sword by Mark Hart 4-Part Bible Study for Teens and Young Adults (DVD). Discussion questions and resources provided by the Office of Catechesis and Evangelization
T3: Revelation – The lion and the Lamb by Mark Hart 4-Part Bible Study for Teens and Young Adults (DVD) with Leader and Participant Book
Parish Retreats
Step One 33 Days to Morning Glory – A Do-it Yourself Retreat in Preparation for formal entrustment to Mary according to St. Louis de Montfort, St. Maximillian Kolbe, Blessed Pope John Paul II, and Blessed Mother Teresa. Individuals may make the 10 minutes-a-day retreat on their own using the book 33 Days to Morning Glory. Book is available from the Office of C and E for $3. 6 sessions, 90 minutes each with 35 minutes of teaching on DVD by Fr. Michael Gaitley. Up to 11 hours of credit. Facilitators Guide/DVDs available from the Office of C & E for free rental. In addition to the book, cost of Participants Packet is $20.
Step Two Consoling the Heart of Jesus – A Do-It-Yourself Retreat Individuals may make the 10 minutes-a-day retreat on their own using the book Consoling the Heart of Jesus. Books are available for $10. The purpose of this retreat is to draw closer to the Merciful and Sacred Heart of Jesus by accepting His love and trusting in Him. The Retreat combines the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius with the teachings of Saints Thérèse of Lisieux, Faustina Kowalska, and Louis de Montfort. The author of these materials is Father Michael Gaitley, MIC. 10 sessions, 90 minutes each with 35 minutes of teaching on DVD by Fr. Michael Gaitley. Up to 15 hours of credit. Facilitators Guide/DVDs available for free rental. In addition to the book, cost of Participants Packet is $20.
Faith Study Resources
Walking Toward Eternity: Daring to Walk the Walk 7-2 hour sessions including DVD’s, Leader’s Guide and Participant Journal by Jeff & Emily Cavins. This Program is designed to help you live your faith more freely by developing and nurturing the virtues love, forgiveness, humility, prayerfulness, faithfulness, sacrifice, and thankfulness – that are essential to the Christian life. 14 hours of credit Resources available from the Office of C & E; Journals are $16
The Catechism of the Catholic Church
Unlocking the Beauty of the Catechism: Part One 8 sessions of a small group study of the Creed by Christopher Ruff. This includes personal reading of 15 pages of the Catechism before group study. The book includes vocabulary aids, summaries of sections, discussion questions and “growth in discipleship” application. Available for $8, Facilitator’s Guide available for $4
Unlocking the Beauty of the Catechism: Part Two 8 sessions of a small group study of the Creed by Christopher Ruff. This includes personal reading of 15 pages of the Catechism before group study. The book includes vocabulary aids, summaries of sections, discussion questions and “growth in discipleship” application. Available for $8,
I Have Loved You by Christopher Ruff **Spanish version now available 6 Sessions Book for small group study is available through Office of Ministries and Social Concerns
“Who Is My Neighbor?” by Christopher Ruff 6 Sessions Book for small group study is available through Office of Ministries and Social Concerns
The Greatest of These is Love – by Christopher Ruff 6 Sessions Book for small group study is available through Office of Ministries and Social Concerns
Catholicism 101: Essentials for the Journey by Jeff Cavins (DVD) 10 part DVD Series with workbook. Available for free rental
Feast of Faith – The Eucharist by Marcelino D’Ambrosio, Ph.D. 4 part DVD Series with workbook
Human Sexuality
Embrace Parenthood: Step One of the Teaching the Way of Love Series Complete the workbook. (Read segments, watch DVD clips and answer discussion questions)
Growing in the Way of Love: Step Two of the Teaching the Way of Love Series. Complete the workbook. (Read segments, watch DVD clips and answer discussion questions)
Bodies and Boundaries: Step Three of the Teaching the Way of Love Series.Complete the workbook. (Read segments, watch DVD clips and answer discussion questions)
Live Presentation of any step of the Teaching the Way of Love series Contact Alice Heinzen at heinzenalice@gmail.com
Recognizing God-given Gifts for use in the parish
Discerning Charisms – The Catherine of Siena Institute The Called and Gifted Workshop – 4 part series (DVD available for $30 or free rental) with Catholic Spiritual Gifts Inventory (book for $8 per person) and Discerning Charisms, a workbook for navigating the discernment process – 3 small group sessions (workbook available for $10)
EPIC: A Journey through Church History (DVD) 20- part series takes you through the major people, places and events that make up the history of the Catholic Church. Workbook is part of the program.
An Introduction to the Theology of the Body: Discovering the Master Plan for Your Life by Christopher West (DVD) – 8 sessions with study guide
God’s Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage by Christopher West (Theology of the Body) DVD – 6 part Series with Study Guide – free rental
The Mass
Mystical Body, Mystical Voice, Encountering Christ in the Words of the Mass 5 – 90 minute sessions including DVD’s, Leader Guide and Participant Booklet by Chris Carstens and Father Douglas Martins Includes the book Encountering Christ in the Words of the Mass