LIGUORI, Mo. — Liguori Publications, a Catholic publisher and ministry of the Redemptorists, donated 700 copies of “Reveille for the Soul: Prayers for Military Life” to the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), to serve the pastoral needs of recruits. The AMS is distributing the books on a limited basis among seven military installations across all branches of the U.S. Military.
The book will be reserved for those beginning their military service and fits in the shirt pockets of military men and women. It expresses the emotions, questions, and aspirations found in their hearts via more than 50 prayers and reflections for times of transition, loved ones at home, and comrades in arms.
“’Reveille’ was written by the military, for the military, in every respect,” said Marge Fenelon, the book’s compiler and a journalist, author, and speaker. “As the mother of a son who served with the National Guard, I greatly appreciate what soldiers and their families endure.
“I’m grateful to all our military personnel for their service and also to God for the chance to help ease the way for them through this unique devotional,” Fenelon said. “I’m especially grateful to the military men and women who opened their hearts to contribute to the book.”
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., who leads the archdiocese that spans 220 U.S. military installations in 29 countries, expressed gratitude for the gift. Redemptorist work has long touched the heart of anyone in need of spiritual counsel and healing, he said in a statement.
“In the context of the Holy Year of Mercy this gift for the young people entrusted to my pastoral care constitutes a priceless invitation to draw near to Almighty God. I am very grateful to Liguori Publications for this initiative,” Archbishop Broglio said.
Virgil Tipton, Liguori’s publisher, said it’s fitting that the company is donating this book as Memorial Day approaches.
“When Liguori created ‘Reveille for the Soul,’ we strove to make a book that honored all U.S. Military men and women and provided them with a lifeline to faith,” said Tipton. “We are donating these books in hope that they bring every recipient — especially those far from home — a little closer to the Church.
Liguori customers helped support a donation campaign through their purchases of “Reveille for the Soul.” The publisher donated one book for every book purchased during the campaign. KC Book Printing & Binding of North Kansas City, Mo., donated a portion of the printing cost for the books.
Liguori Publications is a leading provider of award-winning Catholic publications for parishes and individuals in every stage of faith and life. A ministry of the Redemptorists, Liguori publishes inspirational and educational print and digital books, catechetical and faith-formation programs, newsletters, pamphlets, Vacation Bible School programs, and parish bulletins. Its flagship magazine, Liguorian, communicates a timely pastoral message to Catholics on matters of faith and has been a cherished companion of Catholics for more than 100 years.
