By Shawna Hanson
Chair Eucharistic Revival Committee

In the Black Hills community of Custer, there is a group of women who have a book club that has been meeting for some time. Last year, they were somewhat disappointed with the booklist they had received from a national reading club and over the summer decided to pick their own books for the following year. Club member Ann Dvorak said, “If we were already creating our own list, we decided we may as well pick them with a Eucharistic theme and learn and grow alongside the whole church in this time of Eucharistic Revival.” They chose books, eucharistic hymns, saints, and videos that highlight the riches of the church’s teaching and love for Jesus, present in the Eucharist.

Custer’s book club has members of varying ages and from diverse backgrounds, but with a common desire for fellowship and discussion. Ann said, “It is such a blessing to gather and hear how each member receives the books with her unique perspectives and ways of seeing. It makes for a rich conversation.”

Their book list includes both modern and classic books such as “The Jewish Roots of the Eucharist” by Dr. Brant Pitre, “The Lamb’s Supper” by Dr. Scott Hahn and “The Real Presence” by St. Peter Julian Eymard. Not all of their choices are serious theological works. In January, they will be reading the children’s classic, “The Outlaws of Ravenhurst” and in February the inspirational reflection by Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan, “Five Loaves and Two Fish.” In addition to their discussion on the book of the month, the group is taking some time to explore saints such as Bl. Carlo Acutis, St. Clare of Assisi and St. Tarcisius and how their Eucharistic piety has inspired the church. If the saint has a symbol associated with them in sacred art, they share that as well. They open their time together singing and praying with a eucharistic hymn. Clearly, the plan offers them an opportunity to immerse themselves in that which is true, good, and beautiful!

If you are interested in learning more, Ann has shared their whole reading plan with us. Please contact me at shanson@diorc.org for a copy.