Globe to feature book review

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
July 17, 2003

Two to three years ago, director of the Religious Education Media Center for the Diocese of Sioux City explained that he felt it would be beneficial if the media center expanded its offerings from instructional and educational resources to include various books on spirituality. With the support of the bishop, Deacon Larry Sitzman said a wide assortment of books on spirituality were added to the media center.

About six months ago Deacon Larry Sitzman, director of the media center, came up with the idea to feature book reviews in The Globe to create an awareness as to the types of books offered by the media center.

"While everyone's spirituality can be different, it is very important in each of our lives," said the deacon, who added that people nurture their spirituality in different ways. A mother, for instance, may nurture her spirituality by taking care of her children.

The new spiritual book review will start up in The Globe in August. Twelve individuals, a different person each month has agreed to write a review. He pointed out that some of the writers might be well known to the people of the diocese.

"Women religious, priests and lay men and women have all graciously responded yes to my plea," said Sitzman, who wanted to have a mix of people writing the reviews because there is such a mix of parishioners in the diocese. "I wanted there to be different perspectives."

The 12 writers are selecting their own topics on spirituality. The deacon had reminded the writers that if they were going to do something relating to Scripture, they might want to consider something in Mark to tie in with the liturgical season.

"The different topics can range from Scripture, Christology, church, Lent, Advent, ministry, prayer and spirituality," he explained.

Sister Kevin Cummings, recently retired diocesan archivist, is slated to write the first review. It is scheduled to appear in the Aug. 14 edition. She will review Eight Spiritual Heroes: Their Search for God by Brennan Hill. A spiritual book review will run monthly thereafter, usually the second week of the month.

Parishioners may wish to read the book featured in the book review or others in the media center's library. They can call (712) 233-7529, fax (712) 233-7598 or write 1821 Jackson St., Sioux City, IA 51102. A list of books available in the media center is available of the diocesan Web site. Check it out at www.scdiocese.org.

Deacon Sitzman noted that some of the books are educational, others are enriching and inspiring.

Anyone in the diocese may check out books from the media center. They can keep them for two to four weeks depending on the length of the book. There is no cost for this other than return postage for those whom cannot drop the book directly off at Central Catholic Offices in Sioux City.

Books are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Deacon Sitzman will keep names on a waiting list if more than one person requests a book.