My latest review book for The Catholic Company is Homegrown Faith: Nurturing Your Catholic Family by Heidi Bratton. Because this is a review book, I did go through it faster than its intended purpose, but will definitely will return to it.
There are 52 reflections broken into four sections, one for each season of the year. Each reflection ends with four "Growing Spiritually This Week" questions/activities for further reflection. One of the recommended ways of using this book is to use one reflection each week for five days...reflection one day & the questions/activities on the following four days.
"Throughout this book, readers will find the recurring idea that faith is more often caught than it is taught; additionally, even when it is taught, I believe we can only effectively teach that which we love. This being the case, some of the devotions in this book are aimed specifically at helping moms and dads grow in their love and understanding of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. The principle of faith here is the same as that of an airplane oxygen mask--we need to put our own on first, and then we'll be able to help those around us." (pg. xviii)
I LOVE that last sentence...so true!
One of the things I liked most about this book are the analogies she uses. For example, on page 157, she compares Ephesians 6:13 about putting on the full armor of God to wearing complete soccer gear, including cleats. We need to be properly equipped to be firm in our Catholic Faith. On page 115, she tells us that building our children's character is like building a rock wall. (I'll let you read what she has to say about that!)
The reflections are short & will fit into any busy parent's schedule. The questions/activities range in variety from simple to challenging. You can choose to do them all or only those that your feel able to at this time. As I said above, I will definitely be returning to this book. It will fit in perfectly with my early morning readings & devotions.
This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Homegrown Faith. They are also a great source for a Catechism of the Catholic Church, Catholic Bible, & many other great Christmas gift ideas!
0 comments:
Post a Comment