If anyone is searching for a delightful and informative book to give to a Confirmation candidate or convert as a gift, I recommend Catholic Traditions and Treasures: An Illustrated Encyclopedia, by Dr Helen Hoffner (Sophia Institute Press). It is beautifully produced, with many Old Master illustrations alongside pencil drawings by Deirdre M Folley, and contains a great number of facts and explanations in a very readable format.
Most of us would admit to not knowing all the lovely and often ancient traditions of the Faith that are an intrinsic part of a Catholic culture. Why are throats blessed on 3rd February? Why do people pray to St Anthony if they have lost something? Why do some Catholics wear miraculous medals or scapulars? What are the initials sometimes chalked on the lintels of doors for the Feast of the Epiphany? Some, probably self-designated Vatican II Catholics, resist the manifestations of popular piety, but that is a great pity for they are the signs of personal devotion that should not be mocked.
