Peter Celano’s compilation of a 40-day journey with St. Paul is a wonderful way to observe Lent and the Year of St. Paul. This collection by Celano, who also compiled Christmas with the Holy Fathers (2008), provides reflections from various Church Fathers, saints, holy men and women, and popes. Each day features an introduction, a scripture reading, a meditative reading from a saint or holy person, a short reflection on that reading and/or saint, and a short boxed biography of the saint or holy person.

The two major thematic sections of the book are further broken down into eight sub-themes. The first part, themes from St. Paul’s life, subdivides into a converted man, trials and afflictions, witness to the nations, and the revelation of Jesus Christ.

The second section on themes from St. Paul’s letters subdivides into to live is Christ, to die is gain; the fruit of the Spirit, the greatest of these is love; and witnessing to Jesus Christ in our lives. Major features include an introduction to St. Paul’s life and ministry and a collection of “prayers of St. Paul” from St. Paul’s letters. The book concludes with endnotes, and the dust cover contains an image of St. Paul from the late 13th-century altar panel by the Master of Soriguela from Vall de Ribes.

To Live is Christ: A 40-Day Journey with Saint Paul is highly recommended for private reflection and meditation or for group-study and reflection during Lent or at other times of the year, especially during this Year of St. Paul.