This Little Black Book is your companion for Lent. It’s an old-fashioned “vade mecum” (pronounced vahday maykum). That’s Latin for “travel with me” and was used to describe a book that was a constant companion – perhaps a condensed book of prayers for traveling priests, or a handbook for quick reference – something you could take with you anywhere.
Kenneth Edward Untener (August 3, 1937 – March 27, 2004) was a Roman Catholic bishop, serving the Diocese of Saginaw from 1980 until his death.
In 1999, Bishop Ken Untener of the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw decided to create a Little Black Book, which would use the prayer tradition of Lectio Divina to help people pray the Passion of Our Lord. Besides an English version of the book, there was also a Spanish edition, and a children’s book (Little Purple Book).
Although Bishop Untener died in 2004, he remains the inspiration for the Little Books. His Little Books staff continue to produce Little Books each year for the Advent/Christmas, Lent and Easter seasons, based on Bishop Untener’s writings. They are also producing four Stewardship books in light of the four Gospels.
Unique Lenten Companion published yearly by Diocese of Saginaw, MI. Each day through Lent and Holy Week provides a two page meditation/devotional. The left-hand pages has a variety of quotes, information, and timely thoughts. The right-hand page is key, this year, providing some of the parables of Jesus with explanations and reflections along the way. Excellent tool to pray and journey with through Lent.
So inspirational to start my day with these 6 minute reflections. I look forward to it and am continually brought more peace and focus to start the day.
I particularly love tge left hand page of little tidbits of history. Fun facts. The right side talks to us in very simple language about a part (sentence/paragraph) of the gospel
I didn’t finish it in the time I wanted to (Easter) but I’m proud of myself for sticking to this goal to complete this black book-I get one every year and never even open it. This year I read it al!!
I’ve lost track of how many little black books and purchased over the past Easter seasons. This one was well written and captivating because it covered the parables.