the interior castle bookstore
6 South Randolph Street, Lexington, Virginia
2026: A very blessed year!
Give Yourself the Gift of a Peaceful Advent
By popular demand, the pre-order Christmas event is back! We know: it seems early, but calendars do fill up fast!
Give yourself the gift of a peaceful Advent!
Browse the store while enjoying a cup of Catholic Coffee; record your gift selections; pay by check, credit card or cash; and pick up your "curated" bag well before Christmas.
Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24
10:00am - 4:00pm
Archbishop Sheen, Pray for Us!
Our well-loved and prophetic Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen took the next step toward sainthood: he was beatified on Thursday, September 24. Millions of Americans of all faiths tune in to his radio and television programs; become absorbed in his profound yet accessible writings; and chuckle at his Irish wit.
In his words: God Love You!
What does "beatification" mean? Listen to what Bishop Robert Barron, who could rightly be said to have followed in Archbishop Sheen's footsteps, has to say. (click below).
We Recommend: "Heaven in Stone and Glass"
Save the Date: Feasting with the Saints: Inaugural Event
We highly recommend seeing Bishop Robert Barron's new documentary, "Heaven in Stone and Glass", now showing in theaters. It is breath-taking. (And, we have the book in stock.)
Save the Date: Feasting with the Saints: Inaugural Event
Save the Date: Feasting with the Saints: Inaugural Event
Save the Date: Feasting with the Saints: Inaugural Event
Each month, The Interior Castle partners with local restaurants to celebrate one of our Saints via a culinary route.
Drawing from the Drinking with the Saints and Dining with the Saints best-sellers, we'll have one drink, one toast, hors d'oeuvres or a full meal, conversation, and a deeper dive into our Catholic traditions.
Our first gathering celebrates The Triduum of Hallowtide and the feast of All Saints!
By reservation. Details to follow!
Let Us Bow Down and Worship
Save the Date: Feasting with the Saints: Inaugural Event
Let Us Bow Down and Worship
Jesus Christ is present in the Holy Eucharist: Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity.
Adoration at St. Patrick's, 219 West Nelson Street. Wednesdays, 8:45am (following 8:00 Mass) until 7:00 pm. Only three blocks from The Interior Castle.
Catholics Vote NO!
Save the Date: Feasting with the Saints: Inaugural Event
Let Us Bow Down and Worship
In the Commonwealth of Virginia this fall there will be two amendments on the ballot which threaten constitutional justice, the equal protection of the laws, and religious liberty: the “Virginia Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment” (Ballot Question 1) and the “Virginia Remove Constitutional Same-Sex Marriage Ban Amendment” (Ballot Question 2).
As Catholics, we vote “no” on these proposed amendments because we recognize that these are matters of basic and fundamental justice and concern matters of intrinsic right and wrong. Although many matters in political life call for strictly prudential personal judgments over which Catholics may in good faith disagree, certain fundamental matters such as marriage and the protection of human life call for a consistent and universal response from Catholics to protect and preserve objective goods by which God blesses humanity.
Consecration of the Nation to Jesus' Sacred Heart
Consecration of the Nation to Jesus' Sacred Heart
Consecration of the Nation to Jesus' Sacred Heart
On June 11, 2026, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops consecrated the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Learn more about how the Catholic Church will be celebrating the 250th birthday of the USA at: https://www.usccb.org/weholdthesetruths
The Interior Castle can help you bring His Sacred Heart into closer focus.
Classic Catholic
Consecration of the Nation to Jesus' Sacred Heart
Consecration of the Nation to Jesus' Sacred Heart
Catholics "of a certain age" will remember fondly the small celluloid figurines that graced our bedside tables as children. Some even glowed in the dark - which could be disconcerting if you weren't expecting it!
The Interior Castle is acquiring select statuary from the 1950's - 1970's (ish). This vintage collection includes ceramic and chalkware pieces of various sizes.
Not only do these bring back memories, but they continue to be classic evocations of our Faith - a charming heirloom to pass on to your next generation.
Stop by and reminisce with us!
Brother Sun, Sister Moon
Consecration of the Nation to Jesus' Sacred Heart
Brother Sun, Sister Moon
St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most well-known and loved saints in Christianity.
Pope Leo XIV has declared a Jubilee Year in honor of this great poet, mystic and founder of the Franciscan Order.
Join The Interior Castle as we continue our year-long celebration in both spiritual and incarnated ways with new biographies, stickers, garden figures, prints, socks (yes, socks) – even medals for your pet!
GROW IN FAITH
The Men's Corner
Our men's consultant has selected and set aside items he believes will be of interest to you gentlemen. Browse at your leisure in our new Men's Section.
Stay tuned: there is a man's reading group afoot. We'll announce it here soon.
A Place to Pause and Reflect
One of our goals is to introduce guests to the great treasures of the Catholic tradition, including contemporary commentary and reflections.
Whether you prefer a bit of solitude on our sunporch while getting acquainted with an unfamiliar author, or sharing a cup of tea with the staff as they guide your search, you are welcome to stay as long as you like and leave with your wallet intact.
Newly Arrived Books
Feature of the Month:
I Wait in the Night: The Death Row Journal of Jacques Fesch. Translation and Commentary by Fr. Rupert Allen Cong. Orat. What can bring a murderer, an embittered atheist, to love God? And, to now be recognized as a Servant of God?
The Abolition of Man by C.S. Lewis
Communion; Finding My Way Back to Faith by J.D. Vance
The Secret of the Goldfish by Mark Guiney (A Gloria Treddle Mystery)
Moses by Brian Wildsmith (Children's)
Yoga Unveiled: My Spiritual Journey from Darkness to Light by Linda Carl
Bread Grows in Winter by Ida Friederike Gorres
RCIA/OCIA 2.0
Warmest welcome to you who have recently "crossed the Tiber "and joined the Church. Looking for where to go next? Visit our Order (formerly Rite) of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) section for ideas for your next steps in the Faith.
Sacramentals
Veiling: A Reminder of the Spousal Relationship Between Christ and His Church
Sacramentals help us prepare to receive God's grace. Do you have a Scapular yet?Find yours at the Castle, as well as crucifixes, holy water fonts and more.
Veiling: A Reminder of the Spousal Relationship Between Christ and His Church
Veiling: A Reminder of the Spousal Relationship Between Christ and His Church
A 2000+ year tradition in the Catholic Church, veils are making a comeback.
The Interior Castle has a large selection of beautiful veils from Spain, Australia, and here in Rockbridge County.
An interesting article on veiling for your consideration: https://laycistercians.com/why-catholics-wear-chapel-veils/
These are SELLING FAST!
Heirloom Rosaries
These rosaries will be treasured for a lifetime. Each rosary is unique, and has been hand-wrapped with care by a New Orleans artisan. And: they will never snag your favorite sweater. Comparable rosaries sell online for hundreds of dollars.
We also carry rosaries made by schoolgirls at St. Bakhita's Vocational Training Center in Uganda.
Special requests are possible, depending on the artisan's schedule. Just ask!
Reading and Discussion Group
The Saturday morning book discussion group resumes on October 17. We will be reading What Christians Believe, by Bishop Robert Barron. Join us for deep dives into the Faith, and lively and spirited discussions!
Email emaib@aol.com for details on procuring a copy of the book and meeting times.
We welcome ideas for new groups, and are forming a men's reading group later this Fall. Stay tuned.
Trying to Get Off the Screen? Get Help Here.
Get off the screen and reconnect with the real world. We've procured some delightful embroidery and cross-stitch kits. to help you break the 'doom scroll' habit.
Just in time to complete the kit before Christmas! From beginners to advanced, and featuring gorgeous kits from the Netherlands.
Know the Faith. Love the Faith. Live the Faith.
NEAREST CATHOLIC CHURCH
St Patrick's Catholic Church, Lexington, Virginia
BENEDICT XVI INSTITUTE FOR SACRED MUSIC AND DIVINE WORSHIP
"The greatest problem we face both inside and outside the Church is: the loss of the sense of the sacred. In a busy and distracted society, people from all walks of life hunger for deep meaning, for the timeless, for the transcendent. They hunger for the presence of God.
The Benedict XVI Institute for Sacred Music and Divine Worship’s unique mission is to open the door of Beauty to God."
KINDLE MY FIRE RADIO PROGRAM
Kindle My Fire is broadcast weekly from Lexington, Va Sunday mornings at 8:30am on 96.7 3WZ, and again at 9:30am on Big Dawg 100.3
THE INSTITUTE OF CATHOLIC CULTURE
Offering online adult Catholic education programs free of charge covering a broad spectrum of topics in the Catholic liberal arts, including theology, philosophy, history, scripture, literature, catechetics, and more.
https://instituteofcatholicculture.org/
THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF THE HOLY SEE
Want the "Real Scoop"? Visit the website of the Holy See (aka the Vatican).
The Search for God: "Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?"
The Search for God: "Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?"
The Director of the Vatican Observatory, Brother Guy Consolmagno, S.J. (now "emeritus"), would answer: "Yes: If he asked me."
Check out our Faith and Reason Section.
Faith and Works at The Interior Castle
The Search for God: "Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?"
Help us keep the store open more than one day a week: volunteer! No retail experience needed.
Email us at emaib@aol.com and luxuriate in the calm and anticipation that one can only find in a bookstore.
build your domestic church
The Catholic Sun Doth Shine
St. Teresa of Avila said that God walks among the pots and pans.
We carry household items and religious goods to "find the eternal in the everyday"*: dish towels, door blessing hangers, aprons, cookbooks, and to oversee it all, Madonnas of the kitchen.
* From The Theology of the Home by Carrie Gress.
For the Larder
Looking for that special, non-cluttering and quintessentially Catholic gift? Consider something for the larder.
Catholic Coffee (a cuppa "John Paul II Peruvian Dark Roast" perhaps?).
Cookies: Ginger Snaps, Springerle, Mint Julep and St. Hildegard (Sisters of St. Benedict, Indiana)
Monk's Specialty Bakery Biscotti (Trappist monks of The Abbey of the Genesee, New York)
Monk's Hot Sauce (Benedictine monks of Subiaco Abbey, Arkansas)
Trappist Preserves (Holy Cross Abbey, Virginia)
All foods are made by monks and nuns whose products support their lives of prayer and service.
School Days
Time to Gear Up!
We now carry Phone Wallets (pictured), Tiny Saint charms for backpacks; stickers; and pocket tokens. And parents - kids love to discover the daily message you inscribe on the back of their Scripture Lunch Box notes.
NEW! Stained Glass
Created by local artist Adam Figlio, we're glad to now offer stained glass for the home.
Get Mugged at the Castle
From the traditionally devotional to the irreverently funny to finely crafted Stoneware, these mugs boldly proclaim the Faith – at home, in the office or on the road.
Our most popular “Don’t Make Me Have To Go To Confession” mug is back in stock. Or, choose a 20-oz. tumbler and adorn it with a Sticker of your choice.
Statutes and Icons
Our statuary selection is growing. We're especially proud to carry smaller works by Thomas Marsh: "Archangel" and "Madonna and Child".
Learn more about Thomas through the attached article below.
Jewelry
Remind yourself, and others, of Who you stand for.
We have Miraculous Medals; stackable Blessing Bracelets (pictured); saints' medals; military service medals; silicone Scripture cuffs and more.
For Our Service Members
The seal of the Archdiocese of Military Services, USA (above) captures it's motto: "Where Catholic Faith and Duty Unite: Serving Those Who Serve".
Like them, we seek to provide resources for members and families of the military: past, present and future.
St. Michael neck chains. Bishop Fulton Sheen's Wartime Prayer Book. Biographies of soldiers and Chaplains. Replicas of Government-issued rosaries. Prayer books for spouses. Mugs and more.
Greeting Cards
We carry greeting cards for all occasions! Featuring Hannah and Bennet cards hailing from the United Kingdom (above). Bookmarks, note cards and journals are also on hand.
Ornaments and Sun-catchers
Not just for Christmas! Adorn your home or office with reminders of your Faith; practice the presence of God throughout your day.
Be Still, And Know
Be Still, And Know
Design your "Little Oratory" aka prayer nook. Simple and austere or filled with artwork to draw you to God's Truth, Beauty and Goodness.
Even more than we are seeking God, He is seeking us.
Learn from the Church's "prayer warriors in our Discalced Carmelite Section. Select a home altar cloth; incense burner or candles; small statues; and a wide selection of prayer books and devotionals.
daily reminders
Icons
An shipment of more icons is expected in early October. Check back soon.
The Sticker Craze
The sticker craze has reached the Shop! Catholic/Christian stickers are anxious to be affixed to your thermos, laptop, or ... whatever!
Sacramental Prep
Whether a Baptism, First Confession and Communion, Confirmation, a Wedding or Ordination: you'll find something you'll be happy to give. We even have Onesies!
Accessories for Book Lovers
Elegant bookmarks, thumb (aka single-handed) book holders, bean bag book stands, cozy socks and a mug of Catholic coffee - the perfect Fall afternoon in the making.
Twelve Stone Art
Twelve Stone Art
"Sharing God's Word one stone at a time since 2015.
This unique marble is quarried in the mountains east of the ancient city of Ephesus, which played an important role in the history of Christianity. Our Scripture Stone is handprinted by our artisans here in the U.S.A."
The Interior Castle carries a selection of magnets, small, and half-sized stones, and as always, can special order others for you.
Ideas and Solutions
It isn't always easy to find what you're looking for. We've done some of the legwork for you!
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Solutions for Special Occasions
Check out our recommendations for those special people and occasions. We've created multiple checklists to spur ideas. UNDER CONSTRUCTION
College Survival Guide
For students and parents. The Interior Castle was established to help college students and families grow in Faith. Here’s how we can help.
1. The Interior Castle is a restful place, an oasis one block from Lexington’s Main Street. Relax, enjoy a cup of (free) Catholic Coffee, pray a little, browse our books, find something to bring Jesus, Mary, the saints … the Faith … into your life in this new college setting.
2. Practice “thinking out loud” as you reflect on what you’ve heard in the classroom and how to respond to it in charity and clarity.
3. The space is available for a Bible study or reading group, or a Catholic game night.
4. Send your collegian a gift bag to lift his spirits while in the Rat Line, or her spirits during exams. Or just to let you know you are thinking of them. It’s easy for them to swing by the store to pick up their special gift(s), or we'll deliver to VMI.
Blog
Oh no! You missed it!
Storm the Castle!
Actually...we'll just open the door for you.
Watch for sales and special events at the Castle and around town.
Would you like to sponsor a pop-up (sales event) at your Parish? Let us know!
Book Signing: September 26
Thank you, David and Michael, for visiting The Interior Castle today. We are all looking forward to reading: The Coming Emmanuel: Jesus and the Great O Antiphons
The meaning of sixth-century liturgical texts that describe the nature of Christ and inspired the carol “O come, O come Emmanuel” have never been explored—until now, by two local authors.
If you missed it, watch for another signing closer to Advent.
Hosting the Lexington Chamber of Commerce "Coffee and Conversation"
Hosting the Lexington Chamber of Commerce "Coffee and Conversation"
A good time was had by all.
3rd Annual Mardi Gras
Hosting the Lexington Chamber of Commerce "Coffee and Conversation"
Pralines, chicory coffee (with lots of cream and sugar!): our way of thanking our patrons, and setting us up for the Lenten season. Always on the Saturday preceding Ash Wednesday.
February 14, 2026
Book Discussion Group
Book Discussion Group
The Saturday morning book discussion group resumes on October 17. We will be reading What Christians Believe, by Bishop Robert Barron. Join us for deep dives into the Faith, and lively and spirited discussions!
Email emaib@aol.com for details on procuring a copy of the book and meeting times.
We welcome ideas for new groups, and are forming a men's reading group later this Fall.
Upcoming Events
BOOK SIGNING: OCTOBER 3, 2026
Meet author Bernadette Griffith
October 3, 2026, Saturday
Meet Bernadette Griffith, author of Whispering Hope through Hearing Loss. "A tender and courageous memoir of faith, identity, and resilience. Bernadette Griffith traces her journey from childhood tinnitus to a life-altering diagnosis of hearing loss, revealing how silence reshaped her relationships, vocation, and prayer. With humor and honesty, she discovers that surrender is not defeat but invitation -- an awakening to God's still, small voice whispering hope beyond the noise. " Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
6 South Randolph Street, Lexington, VA, USA
Email at: emaib@aol.com Located in the oldest building in Lexington (ca. 1780) on the first floor. BTW, the upper floor is an AirBNB, "The Castle ca.1780".
HOURS
Today | By Appointment |
By appointment, call: 928-606-2682
Or by chance, whenever the flags are flying!
