Purpose of this Blog...

You may have noticed that not all books are equal in capturing children's imaginations and in cultivating those innocent, tender souls. My goal is to help you find the ones that do!
(Painting by Mary Cassatt: "Mrs Cassatt Reading to her Grandchildren" -1888)




Wednesday, January 2, 2013

A SAINT AND 8 BEATITUDES: FOR THE EIGHTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS!

Coinciding perfectly with the Eighth Day of Christmas is the feastday of St. Seraphim of Sarov.  Some may not be familiar with St. Seraphim.   He is one of the most renowned Russian monks of the Eastern Orthodox Church.  To many he advised:  
Acquire a peaceful spirit, and around you thousands will be saved.



Today I'd like to feature a book, SAINT SERAPHIM'S BEATITUDES:  BLESSINGS FOR OUR PATH TO HEAVEN, by Fr. Daniel Marshall, illustrations by Paul Drozdowski  It is based on the life of the Wonderworker of Sarov, who died in 1833. This book is lavishly detailed and full of the Saint's sayings and events from his life. Update: Also available as a cd - go here.  [Ages 4 & up]



This picture book also focuses on The Beatitudes, of which there are eight: perfect for the Eighth Day of Christmas, and honestly much more inspiring to highlight than "Eight Maids-A-Milking"! Short sayings patterned after the Lord’s Beatitudes present St. Seraphim’s wisdom in clear, memorable phrases.


THE EIGHT BEATITUDES OF CHRIST
1-Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
2-Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
3-Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
4-Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
5-Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
6-Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.
7-Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
8-Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
-Gospel of St. Matthew 5:3-10




2 comments:

  1. ♥ That is one of our favorites...we also have the CD, which is beautifully done: http://www.ocrb.org/products/st-seraphims-beatitudes-cd

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    1. So good to know - thanks for sharing the link! I'd never heard of the CD until now - wonderful!

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