Reading a book is a good way to reflect on the meaning of the Christmas season. Books written specifically for a Catholic readers can make your Christmastime experience even more meaningful. That’s why we have compiled this list of ten Christmas books for Catholics. Among these titles you will find ancient wisdom, guidance for living Christ’s example in the modern world, and imaginative stories that help you see the meaning of Christmas from a new perspective. But most of all, you will find faith at the heart of each of these books. 

1. Daily reflections 

As a season of anticipation, Advent is an ideal time to set aside a moment each day for reflection and prayer. In the book Advent & Christmas Wisdom From St Alphonsus Liguori by Maurice J Nutt, CSsR, scripture readings related to Advent and Christmas are paired with the writing and wisdom of St. Alphonsus Liguori. It also contains suggested activities for Christian living throughout the season. 

2. Wisdom from the ages 

Those looking for daily reflections that will take them all the way from Advent Sunday to Epiphany on January 6 will enjoy Christmas with the Holy Fathers, compiled by Peter Celano. This book contains writings from many popes, with passages covering Advent, Christmas, and the Epiphany. 

3. Discover the meaning behind traditions 

Have you ever wondered why candles are placed in the window at Christmastime? Or why poinsettias are considered a traditional Christmas decoration? In his beautifully illustrated book Celebrating A Merry Catholic Christmas, Fr William Saunder goes into detail about the spiritual and historical origins of many of the traditions we may take for granted each Christmas season, such Advent wreaths, Christmas trees, and many others.

4. A story that captures the meaning of Christmas for all ages 

If you are looking for a deeper dive into the history behind the origins of how we celebrate Christmas, Michael Patrick Barber’s book The True Meaning of Christmas has you covered. In this book, you’ll discover foundational facts about the origins of Christmas traditions and the story itself, including how the Christmas story relates to ancient Jewish expectations, why Jesus is said to have laid in a manger, how St. Nicolas became “Santa Claus” and much more.

5. Cozy stories for the Christmas season 

In Ryan N.S. Topping’s hardcover collection, Christmas Around the Fire, a wide variety of authors explore what Christmas is all about. Classic Christmas stories from GK Chesterton, Charles Dickens, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow are included along with more spiritual writings from Catholic voices such as Saints Bernard of Clairvaux and John Paul II. Every story in this collection will make you feel like you’re sitting in front of a warm fire! 

6. Bring the spirituality back to Christmas with the saints 

As you reflect and pray each day of Advent, you may want to better understand God through the words of the men and women who had especially close relationships with Him. The book Advent and Christmas with the Saints, compiled by Anthony F Chiffolo, features writings, thoughts, and prayers from saints throughout the ages. These selections guide you through scripture readings for each day and help recenter Christ in the Christmas season.  

7. Daily Advent reflections with St. Benedict 

The ancient wisdom of St. Benedict has persisted over 1,500 years. In the book Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from St Benedict by Judith Sutera, OSB, you will discover a new teaching from this storied saint every day, along with a scripture verse, a prayer and a call to action in one's life. 

8. Christmas wisdom from Pope Francis 

Wisdom from the past can be a helpful way to stay connected to the traditions of Christianity, but they don’t always prepare us to bring the joy of Christmas and Christ’s love into the modern world. Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Pope Francis by John Cleary features the teachings, along with scripture readings, prayers, and suggestions for how to live Christ’s example in the world today. 

9. Anticipate the coming of Christ with Mary 

While the meaning of Jesus’ birth naturally receives the most attention during Advent, it’s important to remember that it would not have been possible without the Blessed Virgin Mary. The book Advent and Christmas with Mary, by Dr Mary Amore, offers everything you need for daily reflection and prayer as you anticipate the celebration of the birth of Jesus, including meditations, scripture, personal reflection moments, and questions to ponder about your own life and walk with God. 

10. An illustrated telling of the story of the three wise men 

Keeping the Christmas season centered on faith in and our love for Jesus Christ can often be a calm, quiet, and prayerful experience. But there’s no reason it can’t also be a lot of fun! And that’s exactly what the book The Wise Men Who Found Christmas by Raymond Arroyo delivers. Experience the journey of the three wise men, Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar, in this illustrated story is sure to be loved by everyone in your family!

Re-center faith in your Advent and Christmas reading

Whether you are hoping to deepen your relationship with God through daily prayer and reflection this Advent season or you are simply looking for more Christmas stories of faith to share around the fire with your family, these 10 Catholic Christmas books are a great place to start. Each book makes a great personal companion for the Advent and Christmas seasons, and they also make great gifts! Be sure to check out the rest of our most popular Catholic books in our online store.