Where to begin?
Consoling the Heart of Jesus by Br. Michael Gaitley, MIC is a “do it yourself retreat based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius”. The “do it yourself retreat” really grabbed my interest, as I would absolutely LOVE to do a retreat. However, that’s just not possible at this point in my life, so this book is (definitely) the next best thing.
The book, despite looking GIGANTIC is actually broken into parts. The first part is the retreat. The second part is rules of discernment of spirits. The third part is made up of quotes from St. Faustina’s Diary, grouped by topic. Finally, there are references and notes at the very end.
Br. Michael wants to drive home two messages in this book: St. Therese the Little Flower’s “Little Way” and Our Lord’s message of Mercy to St. Faustina. I am grateful to Br. Michael for giving me a great explanation of the Little Way that is thorough, complete, and … simple. Br. Michael gives many practical solutions for problems, such as a fear of suffering and writes the most beautiful meditations I’ve read in a long, long time.
This book really connected with me, because the Divine Mercy of Our Lord really attracted me when I was in RCIA. I was able to rekindle my love for the Divine Mercy, thanks to gentle reminders and new perspectives given to me from this book, as well as the grace of God. My prayer life has deepened since reading the book, and I find myself able to recognize when God is trying to tell me something (or just merely get my attention) – I guess I’m more aware of God in my life, and God being God.
The book also has a great web companion available, as well. I highly recommend this book, especially if you think you don’t have time for a retreat.
This review was written as part of the Catholic book Reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Consoling the Heart of Jesus. I received a complementary copy of the book in exchange for my thoughts.
