Book Recommendations for Catholic Family Faith Formation

Nurturing faith in the home is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. Whether you're beginning your family’s faith journey or deepening your domestic church, these recommended books offer insight, inspiration, and practical tools for Catholic parents and educators. From liturgical living and Montessori catechesis to saint stories and family devotions, here’s a well-rounded list to support your family’s spiritual life.

Foundational Books for Catholic Parenting

1. The Catholic All Year Compendium by Kendra Tierney

A modern, engaging, and highly practical guide to living the liturgical year at home. With tips for feast days, fasts, and family traditions, this is a must-have for Catholic families of all sizes and ages.

2. Parenting with Grace: The Catholic Parents' Guide to Raising Almost Perfect Kids by Dr. Greg and Lisa Popcak

A Catholic parenting classic that blends theology, modern psychology, and everyday family life. The Popcaks offer loving, sensible strategies grounded in Church teaching and deep respect for the dignity of each child.

3. Theology of Home (Series) by Carrie Gress and Noelle Mering

These beautifully photographed and deeply reflective books explore the sacredness of the home, motherhood, femininity, and Catholic culture. Ideal for Catholic mothers seeking both inspiration and affirmation.

Catechesis and Montessori-Inspired Faith Formation

4. The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey by Sofia Cavalletti, Gianna Gobbi, and Patricia Coulter

A foundational text for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, this book introduces a Montessori-based approach to spiritual formation, fostering a deep relationship between the child and God.

5. Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti

Explore the profound spiritual life of the child and learn how to nurture it with reverence. This book is essential reading for Montessori educators and anyone involved in children’s catechesis.

6. A is for Altar, B is for Bible by Judith Lang Main

A delightful alphabet book that introduces young children to Catholic terms, objects, and concepts. A perfect addition to any faith-based bookshelf or classroom.

Liturgical Living and Home Devotions

7. Around the Year with the von Trapp Family by Maria Augusta von Trapp

A timeless classic from the real-life inspiration behind The Sound of Music, this book is rich with traditions, recipes, songs, and reflections for every liturgical season.

8. The Little Oratory: A Beginner’s Guide to Praying in the Home by David Clayton and Leila Marie Lawler

A beautiful and practical guide to setting up a prayer corner and creating a rhythm of prayer, song, and sacred time in your home. Ideal for families beginning to build intentional faith practices.

9. A Continual Feast: A Cookbook to Celebrate the Joys of Family and Faith Throughout the Christian Year by Evelyn Birge Vitz

This gem weaves Catholic tradition with mealtime. It includes recipes tied to feast days, saints, and seasons—turning your kitchen into a space of catechesis and celebration.

Books for Nurturing Catholic Identity in Children

10. Saints for Young Readers for Every Day by Susan Helen Wallace (Pauline Books)

These short, inspiring biographies make saint stories accessible and engaging for children. A wonderful daily reading tradition before bedtime or over breakfast.

11. The Loyola Kids Book of Saints & The Loyola Kids Book of Bible Stories by Amy Welborn

Filled with vibrant illustrations and compelling stories, these books make Scripture and the lives of the saints come alive for children. Perfect for read-alouds, independent reading, or faith formation classes.

Final Thoughts

Your home is the first school of faith. These books are tools to help you bring the beauty of Catholicism into the everyday—through storytelling, prayer, tradition, and joyful celebration. Whether you're just beginning to explore liturgical living or you're a seasoned Catholic parent, there’s something on this list to enrich your family’s journey with Christ.

Have a favorite Catholic family book? Share it in the comments or let us know what’s on your nightstand!