Christians worldwide have been blessing themselves with the sign of the cross for centuries. But few who use this simple, familiar gesture know its impact as a powerful prayer. Author Bert Ghezzi shows how this potent prayer engages the Holy Spirit and affirms Christian identity. With insights derived from Scripture, church teachings, and personal experience, Ghezzi encourages people to utilize this powerful sign in their daily life.

Drawing on the fascinating history of the sign of the cross, Ghezzi reveals six dynamic truths of the spiritual life that God gives. "The Sign of the Cross" brings forth an opening to God, renewal of baptism, mark of discipleship, acceptance of suffering, defense agains the devil, and victory over self-indulgence. This inspirational book brings to life the blessings of this ancient prayer and guides Christians to a renewed experience of God.

With 365 saints in this book-from popular figures to little-known individuals-every reader can be assured of finding his or her favorite saints. Readers can locate saints chronologically, alphabetically, by feast day, even by theme (such as conversion, forgiveness, humility, and miracles). The saint's patronage is listed when available, as is the date of beatification or canonization.

While the reference possibilities are abundant, best-selling author Bert Ghezzi has taken exceptional care to ensure that the inspiring stories of these saints of these saints are still the primary focus of the book, and each entry is written in such a way as to help us feel the companionship of the saint. The voice of each saint comes through clearly in quotations drawn from their own wrifings, the recollections of witnesses, and the careful work of biographers. Each entry concludes with a Scripture verse or prayer.

Mystics and Miracles offers twenty-four compelling biographies that explore the lives of ordinary people chosen by God to do his extraordinary work. From visions and healing to prophecies and miracles, mystics provide a direct connection between the human and the divine.