Catholic Stories
Take it to the Queen
The Little Apostle on Crutches
The Little Apostle on Crutches by H. E. Delamare is the story of young Willie– almost nine–whose cheerful goodness touches the lives of everyone he meets.
Through his many adventures, he always strives to do what is right, making him an excellent role model for younger children. For example, he faces persecution from another boy who covets his newspaper corner. Yet, he treats the other boy with continual kindness.
Willie is unique in that he is not afraid to share his faith. When asked about the family's financial difficulties, he replies..."'We're Catholics and that helps one so much, doesn't it? It keeps one contented and happy–and teaches one to bear one's troubles.'"
Because the book was originally published in 1911, there is a quaint old-fashioned flavor to some of the language. However, this never interferes with the meaning of the story. For example, as a complement, another boy says of Willie, "'You're a bully little chap, anyhow!'"
A short 86 pages long, The Little Apostle on Crutches is republished by Catholic Heritage Curricula. Although the story would be a great a read aloud for any age, the reading level is 3-6 grade. This paperback has no illustrations, but you do not miss them.
Update from webmaster, March 2024: It appears that CHC is no longer printing this book. However, you can click here for the Internet Library copy of The Little Apostle on Crutches or find it from a variety of sources who reprint public domain works.
The Weight of a Mass
The best and most memorable lessons are taught through stories, and this gorgeous picture book will teach an unforgettable one. The Weight of a Mass is written in a fairy-tale style and enhanced by rich watercolor illustrations. It will appeal equally well to both boys and girls through countless re-readings.
Said to be based on a true event, the story unfolds as a poor, elderly woman begs for a crust of bread in a bakery. The baker scoffs at her request and demands to know what she will pay. Penniless, the woman offers to hear Mass for the giver of the bread in exchange. To prove that her offer is worthless, the baker writes "One Mass" on a slip of paper and places it on one side of a balance. As more and more delicacies are added to try to balance the scale, the slip of paper demonstrates miraculously that there is nothing on earth of greater value than the Mass.
This book is the perfect gift for a First Communicant, an adult who needs a gentle reminder of the value of their Faith, or anyone who enjoys reading to a child. Our children each have a "treasure chest" of things that they will take with them when they are grown and begin their own homes and families. I am purchasing a copy of this book for each of my children to place in their treasure chests. It deserves all of the awards that it has earned!
Cat. Chat: The Catholic Audio Show for Kids Vol. 1
"Cat. Chat." "Cat. Chat." That is all my children have been singing for the last two days, since they received the two Cat. Chat CDs (short for Catholic chats about God). These CD's combine "faith-filled" stories, lively (contemporary Catholic/Christian) songs and heartfelt prayer, all within the context of family life. These kid-appealing CD's also include the family cat, Moses, who introduces the family, makes comments, and closes each session.
In volume one, the characters include the dad and his two children, Josh and Hannah. The mom has passed away some time ago. As the family cozies up in front of the fire, the dad relates a bedtime story of Mary's life, beginning with her Immaculate Conception and concluding with her Coronation in heaven. As he relates the story of her life, bringing to life her joys and sorrows, the children ask questions and make comments. This along with the catchy songs and clever sound effects keeps the pace moving - holding the attention of young listeners while presenting a realistic picture of family life. The dad also asks his children questions and explains difficult points like Mary's Immaculate Conception to lead them deeper into their faith. Through their conversation with their dad, the children come to learn what it means to imitate Mary and say "yes" to God.
Cat. Chat: The Catholic Audio Show For Kids Vol. 2
In volume two, the characters include the dad, his two children, and their cousins, Sarah and Jesse. The setting is a camping trip by a lake. As the family with their cousins gathers around the evening campfire, the dad relates stories of what it means to have Jesus in your heart, and how to imitate Jesus even in difficult moments. My only suggestion is that we discuss with our children that as parents we have already invited Jesus into their "hearts" (souls) when they were baptized as infants. But it is always good for children to meditate on what it means to be a good Catholic and consciously invite him into their hearts. The CD also provided a "teaching moment" for my six-year-old daughter who did not understand why the cousins' dad did not love their mother any more. Along with conversation that deepens your children's faith, songs they like to sing and sound effects that catch their attention, the story will lead them to a greater understanding of what the true "ultimate" in life is.