Prepare to Serve Reading Resources

Below is a curated selection of recommended books, podcasts, and videos to support your journey through the Prepare to Serve marriage formation program at the Basilica of Saint Mary. These resources have been chosen to help you grow in your understanding of Catholic marriage, communication, emotional and spiritual intimacy, and practical married life.

You are welcome to explore these materials individually, as a couple, or with your mentor couple.

Book Recommendations
Video & Podcast Recommendations
For Fr. Hathaway’s Couples
For Fr. Searby’s Couples
For Fr. Peter’s Couples
For Fr. Meyerhofer’s Couples

Theology & Spirituality of Marriage

Three to Get Married – Venerable Fulton J. Sheen
Men, Women and the Mystery of Love – Dr. Edward Sri
Marriage: The Mystery of Faithful Love – Dietrich von Hildebrand

Communication & Emotional Growth

The Temperament God Gave You – Art & Laraine Bennett
The Five Love Languages – Gary Chapman (Note: not Catholic but widely helpful)

Family & Practical Living

Catholic All Year Compendium – Kendra Tierney
A Catholic Guide to Spending Less and Living More – Sam and Rob Fatzinger
Prayers for Married Couples – Renee Bartkowski

Video Resources:

Beloved: Finding Happiness in Marriage – Augustine Institute
- Available for free through FORMED.org. If you’re a parishioner at the Basilica, you can sign up for a free account.
Better Together – Dynamic Catholic Marriage Series
- Short, practical videos from Catholic couples and experts.
Theology of the Body Institute YouTube Channel
- Accessible videos unpacking the Church’s teaching on love, sexuality, and marriage.

Podcast Resources:

The Basilica of St. Mary Podcast
- Episode 721: A Conversation between Fr. Searby and Fr. Geraci on How to Heal Marriages and Families through the Power of Prayer and Forgiveness

Required readings