Since I have been a part of a church book club for about twenty years, our headline is a topic that I have had to address on a number of occasions. From those who think the only appropriate texts are “religious” in nature, to those who’d entertain the idea of reading almost any book, I’ve received calls, requests and what can only be called “hate mail” representing almost every perspective. I guess that I have to start by setting things straight: Okay. I’m a “church lady,” so my definition of “racy” might be different than yours! (hahaha) What I am talking about is the idea of what is “proper” reading for a book club that meets at a Catholic church, or even what is proper reading for any Christian. Over the years, I’ve developed some guidelines:
- Choosing a bestselling novel, or one that covers very secular themes, isn’t necessarily bad. If read with a discerning eye, many conversations about moral decision making, concepts of God, the value of prayer, etcetera, can be had. Here’s the thing: that discernment requires some maturity. Books with more mature themes allow readers to, especially when discussed as a group, grapple with the intersection of real life and faith. Topics that wouldn’t come up otherwise become the focus of conversation. Official Church teaching can be discussed alongside popular culture’s responses to a variety of situations.
- If you are a “shrinking violet” (skittish about touchy subjects), this type of conversation might not be for you. If you are in a group, get ready for debate. You might find, on the other hand, that you find yourself with a group of like-minded people with whom you can form a bond. If, instead, you are reading alone, please take the time to think deeply, and research if needed. That extra voice may only come if you seek it out.
- Reading something like C.S. Lewis’s, Mere Christianity, can be deeply enriching, but please note that some texts that cover religious topics aren’t the greatest. Choosing a Christian/Catholic theme doesn’t insulate you from potential problems. For example, these books can contain beliefs that aren’t held by the Church. When choosing religious texts, then, make sure that the books you choose come from a Catholic publisher, and possibly even have an imprimatur and nihil obstat (an official seal of approval from the Church), or dive in knowing that you’ll have to apply a discerning eye.
- Absolutely, make sure to give time to discuss or reflect on how your faith impacts your thoughts on a particular text. Always. I know that I have already stated it, but we all need to know where the Church stands on issues when we enter into these types of conversations. I’ve seen it over and over. People are, often, drawn to a book, or other media, that they find particularly appealing. Then they take that author’s opinion to be gospel truth. Please seek out what the Church has to say. Please, at least, consider the, more two-thousand years of experience the Church has regarding faith and morals. This is the step that keeps your compass true.
- Finally, just like old computer folks would say, “garbage in – garbage out.” There are, of course, parameters on what can be considered worthwhile, but I’d caution you from completely sanitizing your reading choices. Removing any tough subjects, or debate from your life, can allow you to grow a beautiful “greenhouse” type of faith, but that delicate faith can wither when faced with the harshness of our world today. Reading can provide opportunities to proof-test our faith so we can grow stronger and more resilient, deepening our faith in Jesus, and allowing us to be stronger witnesses for him.