Theology of the Body for Beginners, (or anything on the “Theology of the Body” by Christopher West). God’s plan for what it means to be human & in relationship. Life-changing.
By Love Refined, Alice von Hildebrand. Letters to a new bride from her Godmother. Very insightful.
Dear Newlyweds, by Pope Pius XII. Pope Pius X originated papal audiences with newlyweds. These are his audiences. He emphasizes the sublimity and beauty of the vocation of matrimony, but also gives very practical nuts and bolts advice.
The Head of the Family, (aka The Father of the Family), Clayton Barbeau. Inspiring call to holy fatherhood
Bridegroom and Bride, Ronald Knox. Wedding homilies.
The Story of a Family, Priat. An inside look at the family life of St. Therese of Lisieux–her parents have been declared blessed.
How to Improve Your Marriage Without Taking About It, Patricia Love, Ed.D & Steven Stosny, Ph. D. This is not a Catholic book, but it’s a very male-friendly approach to recognizing the pitfalls & developing connection within marriage.
Vatican documents giving God’s plan for family life
(these are very readable, inspiring and available online):
“Letter to Families”, Pope John Paul II
“Casti Connubii” (“Chastity in Christian Marriage”),
Pope Pius XI
“Familiaris Consortio” (“On The Role Of The Christian
Family In The Modern World”) Pope John Paul II
“Arcanum” (On Christian Marriage), Pope Leo XIII
“Humanae Vitae” (On the Regulation of Birth), Pope Paul VI
“Evangelium Vitae” (The Gospel of Life) Pope John Paul II
“Donum Vitae” (On Reproductive Technology), Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger (now Pope Benedict XVI)
