Let's join the Summer Book Club!
This summer, St. Ann's is participating in something new and different — a book club! This is a parishwide event, but the women's group has been specially invited, so this will be our summer study. We plan to read three books over the summer, and you can choose to read all three or only one or two. Each book will be followed by an opportunity to meet and discuss it, which is always fun.
What books will we read?
July Book: A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters who Taught Me to Age with Grace by Maria Morera Johnson
In-Person Book Club Meetings: Monday July 28th at 9:45am or 7:00pm - Sign Up Here!
In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life’s second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage.
As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process.
August Book: We Are Only Saved Together: Living the Revolutionary Vision of Dorothy Day and the Catholic Worker Movement by Colin Miller.
In-Person Book Club Meetings: Thursday August 28th at 9:45am or 7:00pm - Sign Up Here!
In an era where social media metrics dominate our sense of connection and happiness, Colin Miller presents a refreshing perspective in We Are Only Saved Together. Drawing from the rich traditions of the Catholic Worker movement, Miller illustrates how true fulfillment lies not in virtual validation but in authentic relationships, shared experiences, and the pursuit of the common good. This timely reminder shows us how the joy we are made for is found in the practice of the Gospel, in the company of others, and especially in friendship with the poor.
How can we sign up?
Order your books: Choose the book(s) you want to read. Click on the book cover or title above to order your copy through Ave Maria Press. Use code: CATHOLICSREAD to get a 20% discount. If you prefer not to order it yourself, contact Patti Kamper at (804)798-5039 and she will get you a copy.
Sign up for a book discussion group: You can join Ave Maria Press' online group HERE (you don't need to do this to participate in our in-person group) or come to St. Ann's for an in-person discussion. St. Ann's In-Person Book Club Session Sign Ups!
Can we stay in our small groups for discussion?
You are welcome to come with your small group, with other friends, with your spouse, or just by yourself. However you do it, you'll find yourself in a friendly and welcoming space. We hope you can join us!
Fall 2025 WWP Study: Grounded in Hope
In honor of the Jubilee of Hope declared by +Pope Francis, St. Ann's will be focusing on the theme of HOPE for the coming liturgical year. As part of the celebration of hope, the Walking with Purpose group is offering a study of the book of Hebrews, using the Grounded in Hope study guide. Here is a bit about this study:
In a world where levels of despair, addiction, and suicide are rising, we need more than clichés or positive thinking. Grounded in Hope, based on the book of Hebrews, will help you encounter Jesus in such a powerful, comforting, and stabilizing way that He will become your lifeline.
Hebrews contains some of the most beautiful passages you’ll find in Scripture. It will comfort you and challenge you. Every word of it has a treasure to mine, and those who are willing to make the effort will be richly rewarded.
Grounded in Hope, our 17-lesson Bible study, is ideal if you…
— Long to know Jesus with greater intimacy.
— Are ready to grow in your trust in Him as your true source of hope.
— Have grown weary as you run your race and need encouragement to persevere.
You are invited to join us for lively discussions as we walk together to gain deeper spiritual understanding of true hope through the beautiful book of Hebrews. Together, we seek to grow in faith and knowledge of scripture, and we'd love to have you with us.
Sessions will be held on Tuesday evening in the Parish Hall, 6 - 7:30 (we encourage arriving at 5:45 for extra visiting time before we start at 6), starting 9/16/25. There will be a sign-up link soon, along with a link to purchase the book. Please let us know if you have questions or need help getting your book. We are looking forward to another year of friendship, fellowship, and fun, and we hope you can join us!
Questions? Email a Coordinator! Janice Pagnini or Janice Campbell
FAQs about Walking with Purpose
Top ten reasons to be part of WWP at St. Ann's
10 - Walking with Purpose (WWP) is a Catholic
Bible study for women.
9- WWP fits into your busy schedule.
8- No prior Scripture knowledge is required.
7- WWP is a no-judgment zone. We welcome
anyone who is interested in studying
God’s Word.
6- We offer “rolling admission.” Visit and join
anytime.
5- Meet new women for fellowship and
connection.
4- Be better prepared to share the Biblical
principles of our faith.
3- There is no actual walking involved.
2- We share our everyday challenges in an
atmosphere of honesty and authenticity
and accept one another for who we are:
beloved daughters of God.
1- and the Number 1 reason to join WWP:
Jesus wants your friendship
and your focus on Him this year.
Questions? Email a Coordinator! Janice Pagnini or Janice Campbell