52 Masses: A Journey to Experience Catholicism Across America

Book Synopsis: Every day, across the United States and around the globe, Mass is celebrated. As the Church Universal, we examine the same readings, recite the same prayers, and enter into the same Mysteries. It is in and through the Mass that we are unified; in communion not only with God and the people in the room, but with our brothers and sisters united in Christ throughout the world. In 52 Masses, author Daniel Markham shares the stories of parishes and parishioners whose experiences bear witness to the unquestionably real presence of God in our lives.This book is an invitation to ride sidecar with Daniel as he embarks on a journey to attend Mass in all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. In each territory, Daniel visits chapels and Cathedrals, Basilicas and makeshift churches. And while God's Church may be visibly embodied in these houses of worship, 52 Masses reminds us that church extends beyond brick and mortar, beyond altar and sacristy. God's Church is found, ultimately, in each of us.Daniel's work takes us to Newtown, Connecticut, where members of St. Rose of Lima Parish reflect on the role they played in the community's recovery from the Sandy Hook shooting. We're introduced to St. Gianna's Maternity Home in Warsaw, North Dakota, where at-risk women give birth to, and raise, their children in a strong, faith-filled environment. We take flight in Dillingham, Alaska, where Daniel flies with Fr. Scott of Holy Rosary, who pilots a Cherokee-Piper airplane to serve Catholics in isolated communities.In the course of his trip, Daniel was blessed to meet a wonderful collection of Catholic men and women, religious and lay people alike, all using their gifts to serve the Lord and our Church.Their stories are told here, in 52 Masses.