H.A.R.C. 2002 Book Reviews

Christina's Favorite Saints

Maria C. Khoury, Ed.D.

Illustrated by Fotini Dedousi

This book will help children become familiar with holy people and seek spiritual strength by knowing the lives of others who served Christ.  In an easy-to-read format, the author gives a short synopsis of the lives of 12 saints, one for each month of the year.  The large, colorful, and almost childlike illustrations are from Byzantine iconography.  After reading this book, Christina would like to know, who is your favorite saint?

                                                                                            Softfound, $12.00, Harc. No. 02-53

The First Christmas Tree

by Henry Van Dyke

For those who love Christmas, these short, magical and lyrical stories are for you.  Written over one hundred years ago by a Presbyterian minister, his stories live on with each generation.  We can keep the spirit of Christmas alive every day if we believe that love is the strongest thing in the world.  In the words of the author, "And if you keep it for a day, why not always?  But you can never keep it alone."

                                                                                            Hardbound, $16.00, Harc No. 02-51

The Story of the Other Wise Men

by Henry van Dyke

Here is a lovely Christmas tale of the three Wise Men who were supposed to rendezvous with a fourth Wise Man named Artaban.  It details Artaban's long sojourn and the details surrounding his encounter with the Saviour.

                                                                                            Softbound, $11.00, Harc No. 02-52

Discerning the Signs of the Times

The Vision of Elisabeth Behr-Sigel

by Elisabeth Behr-Sigel

Elisabeth Behr-Sigel has written a series of essays; she is French Orthodox and came to Orthodoxy after an early life nearly devoid of any religious participation.  Seeking meaning to her life drew her to Orthodoxy, and her passion found her participating in theological discourses with notable Church Hierarchs and commentators.  In her nineties now, she still possesses a zeal for Orthodoxy and her message will topuch your soul in a refreshing, reflective manner.

                                                                                               Softbound, $14.00, Harc. No. 01-32

God’s Story

Karyn Henley

 This readable nonfiction book traces Biblical events in chronological order beginning with the Old Testament.   With more than 800 stories, it is informative for both children and adults.  It includes a fascinating 14-page timeline that combines Biblical and historical events.  This book is simplified but the power of God’s word shines through.

                                                                                         Hardbound, $15.00, Harc. No. 98-46

 Where is God When it Hurts

Philip Yancey

Revised and expanded

 After receiving hundreds of letters, this award-winning author once again gives practical advice on how to help hurting people.  This book now includes many stories from his readers.  He offers helpful treatments for the problem of evil and includes a study guide for each chapter with discussion questions for personal or group study.

                                                                                       Softbound, $10.00, Harc. No. 92-1277

 Return

By Archimandrite Nektarios Antonopoulos

 This small book analyzes the mystery of repentance and confession through the illustration of the parable of the Prodigal Son.  It examines the role of the Father and his receptiveness and the attitude with which he welcomed his errant son back.  The son who had not strayed from his father is also examined as he refuses to enter his home when he sees all the rejoicing at the return of his brother.  Out relationship with others as well as our relationship with God and inner selves is examined in depth as we prepare to confess, repent, and partake of the Divine Eucharist.   A lot of thought-provoking material is packed into this small book.

                                                                                         Softbound, $7.00, Harc. No. 02-34

 Christ and the Church

By Archbishop Gregory Afonsky

 Arch. Afonsky examines the essence of the Church as God intended it to be.  Those who feel they can peaceably pray alone and interpret scripture without the benefit of the knowledge of the Church Fathers and their wisdom are doing themselves a grave disservice.  The role of the Church, what it is and what it is not, is examined.  A Christian follows the footsteps of Jesus Christ and the journey within His Body, thereby experiencing the nourishment of the Holy Spirit and sharing in the Divine Life.

                                                                                   Softbound, $11.00, Harc. No. 01-33

 A Place Of Healing For The Soul: Patmos

By Peter France

 “A Place of Healing for the Soul: Patmos” is a delightful book by British author Peter France.  The book is both a travel memoir and a recounting of the author’s spiritual journey to Orthodoxy.

 Peter France and his wife first visit the Greek island of Patmos at the suggestion of Bishop Kallistos (Ware).  The Holy Island of Patmos is the Aegean island where tradition maintains that in AD 95 Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation.  It is also home to the Greek Orthodox monastery of Saint John Theologian.   The island attracts spiritual pilgrims as well as tourists and after the publication of this book their numbers will surely grow.

 Peter France never envisaged that not only would he be attracted to the island’s simplicity, but that he ultimately would become a resident of the island, leaving his large home in England for a small cottage on Patmos.  Even more surprising to France was his attraction to the spirituality and tranquility that he discovered on Patmos and then his baptism, at the age of 57, as a Greek Orthodox by Bishop Kallistos and four priest-monks.

 In many ways Peter France’s book does for the Greek island of Patmos, what Peter Mayle’s books did for France’s Provence and Frances Mayes did in her books for Italy’s Tuscany.  The difference is the added dimension of the author’s spiritual journey to Orthodoxy, his rejection of materialism and his search for the spirituality, peace, simplicity and tranquility of Patmos.

                                                                                                  Softbound, $24.00, Harc. No. 02-50

 My Daily Orthodox Prayer Book

Anthony M. Coniaris

 A valuable pocketbook filled with over 100 prayers for every occasion.  Included are A Child’s Morning Prayer, A Prayer Request to Your Guardian Angel, A Vacation Prayer, and A Prayer Before Undertaking Any Task.  Explanations are given for The Orthodox Rule of Prayer as well as answers to What is Prayer?  Easy to read, it’s a useful and important tool for the foundation of one’s prayer life.

                                                                                                 Softbound, $8.00, Harc. No. 02-4

 The Story of Mary, the Mother of God

Dorrie Papademetriou

 A beautifully written and illustrated story of Mary that is not found in the Bible.  The story is based on the author’s observations of mosaic icons of a 14^th century monastery and various ancient texts which make up the tradition of the Church.  The book reveals a detailed story of her early life which leads to a greater understanding of who the person of Mary is and is appropriate for children of all ages.

                                                                                                     Hardbound, $14.00, Harc. No. 00-06

 The Mountain of Silence

By Kyriacos C. Markides

 Markides, born into Orthodox Christianity, becomes agnostic after years of training as a sociologist.  After an evolving path toward the yogi tradition with Transcendental Meditation, he comes full circle upon meeting a teacher of esoteric and psychic phenomenon which led to the thought that man has a Christocentric system of mysticism.  A Cypriot leads him to meet and do an in-depth study of monastic life with Father Maximos from Mr. Athos.  Circumstances lead Fr. Maximos to the island of Cyprus.  Markides learns by spending time in a monastery in Cyprus the witnessing of true humility, and the freedom from external possessions and interference.  A captivating study and analysis of the askeses (spiritual exercise) which make up the life of a monastic.

                                                                                                      Hardbound, $23.00, Harc. No. 02-2

 From Earth to Heaven

The Apostolic Adventures of St. Innocent of Alaska

By Monk Andrew Wermuth

 John, the son of Eusebius & Thecla Popov, was born in the late 1700’s in a remote Siberian village.  John learned to read from the Psalter at an early age and frequently read the Epistle from the age of seven.  His father died when John was young, and his uncle, a Deacon, and his mother decided to send him to school at a monastic seminary.  He was an overachiever who excelled at everything he did.  From letters to apprentice clock maker, furniture maker, musician, boat builder, navigator, house builder (the list goes on) he created enthusiasm with his boundless energy and sense of humor.  His passion of spreading the word of God permeated all his talents.  St. Innocent (John) is responsible for translating the Gospel into several dialects of the Aleuts and taking it to the most remote and harsh regions of Alaska.  His accomplishments in missionary work and endurance through the hardships and harshness of the terrain did not go unnoticed.  He was awarded honors and scaled the hierarchal ladder.  As you read this biography, you sense the electricity of his charisma and wish to grow spiritually because of Him.

                                                                                                         Softbound, $14.00, Harc. No. 01-28

Morning Has Broken

By Eleanor Farjeon

 People of all ages instantly recognize the memorable lyrics and melody of the popular song by Cat Steven, “Morning has broken.”  Inspired by Psalm 118, award-winning author Eleanor Farjeon wrote this hymn for children in 1931.  Brought to life again in this beautifully illustrated book, it will be enjoyed and sung again by many.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $7.50, Harc. No. 97-31

 Love, That’s Why

By Karyn Henley

 An adorable little book and songbook for young children ages 2-5.  Along with repetitive phrases and rhyming words, it contains large print with brightly colored pictures that will dazzle the reader.  Your child or grandchild will want you to read this more than once in one sitting.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $5.00, Harc. No. 02-31

 Christ in the Old Testament Prophecy Illustrated

By Niko Chocheli

 Prefigurations of Christ from Old Testament passages illuminate this book of biblical prophecy.  Niko Choceli creates, for all ages to enjoy, stunning images depicting dialog between the voice of the prophets and the Christ to come.  The Son of Man whom Daniel saw in night visions, the Branch of Jesse whom Isaiah saw shoot forth, and the apparitions of other prophets emerge in vivid icons of our Lord.  Familiar bible passages are depicted in highly original illustrations.

                                                                                                        Hardcover, $17.00, Harc. No. 02-32

Nicholas Meets His Guardian Angel

By Helen Iakovos-Dalalakis

 A story for young readers about a boy’s conflict:  should he play basketball or attend church on Sunday morning?  He is influenced by his guardian angel who comes to life in a dream and tells the boy how he is always protecting and guiding him.  A special book for godparents to share with their godchildren.

                                                                                                         Softbound, $14.00, Harc. No. 02-5

 Health and Medicine in the Eastern Orthodox Tradition

By Father Stanley Samuel Harakas

 Harakas, a well-respected theologian and reliable guide, interprets Orthodoxy as it relates to health and modern medicine.  “At the core of Christianity in the Orthodox Church…is a therapeutic, healing approach.”   Some of the topics he shares with the reader are salvation as therapy, suffering, the Liturgy, and the relationship of body and soul.

                                                                                                       Softbound, $18.00 ,  Harc. No. 92-498

 Orthodox Christian Beliefs--Real Answers to Real Questions from Real People

By Father Stanley Samuel Harakas

 This book is a compilation of     questions and answers given by Father Harakas in “The Religious Question Box” section of the newspaper The Hellenic Chronicle (from the years 1984-2000).  In his first book, The Orthodox Church: 455 Questions & Answers, the answers were short and concise, but in this volume, the questions and their answers contain deeper exploration and explanation.  Topics range from Creation, the Trinity, Human Beings to End Times and the Second Coming.  It is organized according to broad topics and then broken down according to question and the elements which are contained in the answer.  At times the answers express concern or may raise doubts and/or disagreement with accepted teachings.  An excellent resource book.

                                                                                                      Softbound, $17.00,  Harc. No. 02-26

 Orthodox Christians in America

By John H. Erickson

 John Erickson, a prominent authority on American Orthodoxy, has researched the origins of Orthodoxy in America from the original Greek and Russian missionaries and immigrants of the late 1700’s.  The historical journey chronicles major events, both political and sociological, inside and outside the life of church and their impact on the assimilation of our faith into the Western world.  The massive surge of converts since the 1960’s, the frequently strained relations between the American Orthodox and the mother churches across the ocean are also pertinent topics which are addressed in this fact-filled book.

                    Hardcover, $24.00, Harc. No. 02-29

The Spirit of Ascension

Philoptohos Society of the Ascension of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church

This recently-released book contains short stories...testimonies, if you will, of people from the Greek Orthodox community who relate their various experiences of feeling the presence of God.   

                                                                                                   Softbound, $20.00, Harc. No. 02-22

Animals Sanctified:  A Spiritual Journey

by Joanne Stefanatos, D.V.M.

Dr. Stefanatos is totally immersed in the field of veterinary medicine and has authored several professional articles and videos.  She feels her purpose in writing this book is to instruct its reader to the truth of God's will in creation for man and animals.  In addition to examining the account of creation in Genesis; Scripture; and the lives of saints with their peaceful relationships to animals, the book deals with numerous classifications of creatures and man's relation to them.

                                                                                                    Softbound, $20.00, Harc. No. 02-3

Let's Take a Walk Through Our Orthodox Church

by Anthony M. Coniaris

This book takes the young reader on a tour through an Orthodox Church.   It clearly and simply explains the meaning of many objects such as the icons, baptismal font, candles, architecture, etc.  Each explanation is enhanced with an original painting.  Excellent for use by teachers or parents at home.

                                                                                                    Softbound, $17.00, Harc. No. 98-78

Teenage Ten Commandments

by Rev. Father George Nicozisin

The Ten Commandments were revealed over 3,000 years ago to the people of Israel through Moses.  Each of the ten speak to us even now about the needs and problems of everyday modern life.  Each commandment is defined in an easy-to-read lesson and is a guide for Christian living.

                                                                                                    Softbound, $6.00, Harc. No. 92-1189

The Story of Icons

By Mary Paloumpis Hallick

 The targeted age group of this book is intended for ages 8 – 13.  However, all ages can benefit and learn from reading this plainly written by informative book.   It examines the origins of iconography; the iconoclastic conflict; explanations of icon symbolism and the reason for the different manner in which figures are depicted…in addition to the meaning of the coloration.  The second half of the book, with its full-color plates, is devoted to the explanations of the feast days of Christ and the Virgin Mary.  It also tells how to ‘read’ the icon for each of the events it depicts.  The Story of Icons is a beautiful addition to everyone’s library.

                                                                                                    $15,00, Harc. No. 02-1

 The Time of the Spirit

Reading through the Christian Year

Selected and edited by

George Every, Richard Harries & Kallistos Ware

 This anthology of essays, poems and scripture lead the reader through the various spiritual seasons of the year.  It begins in September with the Creation, goes through Advent, Christmas and Epiphany.  The preparation of Lent through Pentecost follows with the gifts of the Spirit and ends with the Final Glory in August.  It is a source of inspiration and enjoyment as the reader becomes sanctified and transfigured into life with Christ.

                                                                                                    $11.00, Harc No. 92-1218

 Zacchaeus’ House

        &

Martha and Mary’s House

Written by Allia Zobel-Nola

Illustrated by Linda Clearwater

 Young children can enter the world of two little houses in the “My Bible Village Series” and have Biblical characters come to life.  Zacchaeus, once befriended by Jesus, changes his ways and Martha learns about what is important in serving Him.  To capture children’s attention and for more fun, they can search for hidden objects on each page.   A cute, sturdy little book for little hands.

                                                                                                    Hardbound, $6.00, Harc. No. 00-66 and 00-65

 The Greek War of Independence

By David Brewer

.David Brewer has written a complete history of the Greek War of Independence.  His book was first published in England, with the title “The Flame of Freedom: The Greek War of Independence, 1821 -1833”.  It was recently published in the United States, with a somewhat different title. This is one of but a very few books written in English during the past 100 years dealing in a comprehensive manner with this period in the history of Greece. 

 The book is an important contribution to our better understanding of the valiant Greek patriots who freed Greece from the 400 year rule of the Ottoman Turks.  The earlier revolutions in America and in France influenced the Greeks to undertake their heroic effort, sustained throughout by their Orthodox faith and the bravery of the freedom fighters This is a meticulously researched book which is a definitive history of the war. 

                                                                              Hardbound, $35.00Harc. No. 02-23

Marriage as a Path to Holiness

Lives of Married Saints

 By David and Mary Ford

 In the introduction and forward to Marriage as a Path to Holiness-Lives of Married Saints, the various doctrines concerning marriage as upheld in the Orthodox Church are discussed.  The ultimate teaching is that the supreme purpose of marriage is for husband and wife to help each other to enter the heavenly kingdom.  From this reviewer’s perspective, the short biographical sketches in the section entitled Lives of Married Saints are somewhat difficult to discern how marriage brought about the sainthood of the featured Saints as the title implies.   However, when considered separately, Marriage as a Path to Holiness is informative as is the section of Lives of Married Saints.

                                                                                                         Hardcover, $24.00, Harc. No. 97-25

 On the Mother of God

 By Jacob of Serug

 Jacob of Serug lived in the middle 400’s AD and became a monk and priest.  His great love for the Theotokos is expressed in over 700 homilies.  He was noted for the poetic quality of his writing.  Mary Hansbury’s translation from the Syrian is also graceful in English.  This small book is chock full of occurrences in the Old and New Testaments.  On the Mother of God is a wonderful and insightful resource of the revered role of the Theotokos.  Beautifully written!

                                                                                                         Softbound, $9.00, Harc. No. 99-17

 lydia

 Written by Marty Rhodes Figley

Illustrated by Anita Riggio

 Children will enjoy reading this amusing story of Lydia, an eccentric lady who is obsessed with the color purple.   She loves everything purple—flowers, food, plates, etc., until she finds herself in a dilemma of choosing what she wants or what God wants.  Her purple things are precious to her, but are they more valuable than her friends?  The reader is kept in suspense until the end when the theme of the story, true friendship, is revealed.

                                                                                                             Softbound, $7.50, Harc. No. 97-30

 Celebrate the Earth Psalm 104

Retold and illustrated by

Dorrie Papademetriou

 Earth Day is coming up in April!   This beautiful, spiritual book for all ages is a celebration of our environment.  Psalm 104 is shared in an unchanged, easy-to-follow format.  It proclaims the goodness and wonder of the earth, which are gifts from God, and how we are to be its guardians.  The beauty of this book is not only the Psalm, but how it is brought to life by the magnificent, bright, and bold illustrations that capture the reader’s heart and soul.   The whole family will be captivated by its timeless theme.  It will reinforce the significance of environmental protection.

                                                                                                             Hardbound, $14.00, Harc. No. 00-07

 The Illustrated Jesus through the Centuries

Jaroslav Pelikan

This book has a wealth of information on Jesus, with excerpts from scripture and some of the most famous paintings depicting Him and His significance for the world.  It traces the various images given to Jesus, from the First to the Twentieth Century.  At the start of each chapter, there are excerpts from poems, plays, essays, psalms, and songs from writers such as John Milton, William Shakespeare, Alexander Pope, Issac Watts and Julia Ward Howe

                                                                                                          Hardbound, $22.50, Harc. No. 01-21      . 

Small Acts of Kindness

James Vollbracht

Christopher Fay, Illustrator

 Celebrating the power of kindness, this book for young readers shows the amazing power behind each and every small loving act.  It begins with one young boy’s small hug which leads to other kind acts, ripple by ripple.  The surprise ending is a wonderful spiritual closure to the book.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $6.00, Harc. No. 98-19

 Her First Bible

His First Bible

By Melody Carlson; Tish Tenud, Illustrator

 “God spoke to the night

‘Let there be light’

And all of the world

Grew sunny and bright.”

 Thus begins a must-have Bible storybook for young children.  Written in simple prose, these books highlight treasured times of the Old and New Testaments.  Your children will begin to have God’s word grow in their hearts as you share this special little book with them again and again.

                                                                                                        Hardbound, $7.00, Harc. No. (His), 97-49; (Her) 97-48

 Happy in the Lord

The Beatitudes for Everyday

By Kyriaki FitzGerald and Thomas FitzGerald

 The Beatitudes offer the precepts for basic Christian living.  Father and Presbytera FitzGerald offer in depth, yet understandable elaborations on these famous models for life.  One of the fascinating aspects of these discourses is the path which each explanation takes in the understanding of these precepts.  For instance, “Blessed are Those Who Mourn” refers to those who are in grief but also to those who are mourning sin.  It goes on to a discussion of confession and repentance and brings it all back to the Beatitudes.  An easy read on matters of eternal importance.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $15.00, Harc No. 01-54

 Orthodoxy in Conversation

Orthodox Ecumenical Engagements

By Father Emmanuel Clapsis

 Father Clapsis has assembled a series of essays covering a wide variety of topics such as Papal Primacy, The Orthodox Church in a Pluralistic World, Politics and Christian Faith.  With the perspective of an in depth theological examination of the various implications of each topic, he gives an Orthodox viewpoint on ongoing theological deliberations between other Christian faiths.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $16.00, Harc. No. 01-53

 Journey to the Kingdom

Reflections on the Sunday Gospels

By Father John Mack

Journey to the Kingdom chronicles 35 Sunday Gospel readings taking us through the cycle of Pentecost, pre-lent, Lent, the Transfiguration and the Nativity. Each reading has a homily which correlates with the Gospel lesson of that day. The sermons are insightful, as well as a convenience to anyone who may be unable to attend Sunday services.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $14, Harc. No. 01-46

The Living God was originally written in French and was translated by Olga Dunlop. It covers very thoroughly in a very understandable style the basic teachings of the Orthodox Church. It brings together scripture, theology, iconography, hymns, feasts and liturgy illustrating the complete Liturgical cycle. In several chapters, it takes on the ‘seeker’ (question) and ‘sage’ (answer) format. Volume l begins with the explanation of the Creation through the Resurrection of Christ. Volume 2 continues with the Feast of the Ascension through Revelations and concludes with the Sacraments and Prayers. This is an excellent resource for the answers to the details of the Orthodox Faith.

                                                                                                        Softbound, $25/set, Harc No. 92-711

A Book of Psalms

Bijou Le Tord

"Let the earth be happy." Psalm 97:1

Award winning author for young readers combines simple Psalms and delicate watercolors in revealing the wonders of nature through God’s word. The miracle of little seeds, the wings of a dove, and the sun shining on the universe are all of God’s glorious creation. When reading these joyful and sacred poems, one almost needs to whisper or sing them in a song.

                                                                                                        Hardbound, $15, Harc. No. 98-68

Sergius of Radonezh

Alvin Alexsi Currier

Illustrated by Nadezda Glazunove

A simple yet vivid story for young readers about the life of a great saint who founded Holy Trinity Monastery. His life touched and inspired countless others to follow the path of Christ. As a young illiterate boy, his first introduction to monastic life was through a monk who showed him not to despair but that he could read and write. The story reveals Saint Sergius’ many miracles and his steadfast faith and love. A brave yet humble man, (and a good model for young people) he sought out the lowest tasks such as sowing seeds or hoeing weeds. This book has beautiful pictures full of color, life, and joy which reflect the traditions of Orthodoxy. Together the author and illustrator bring the spirit of Saint Sergius to life.

                                                                                                    Hardbound, $18, Harc. No. 01-47

Past HARC Book Reviews

                                  PAST HARC REVIEWS

CHRISTMAS BY THE HEARTH

Tyndale House Publishers

 This book is an anthology of stories, which explore the meaning, and mysteries of Christmas.  Well-known Christian authors, in addition to classic writers such as Hans Christian Andersen, O. Henry, and Harriet Beecher Stowe are featured in this wonderful volume.  It’s a value to be sure for the priceless images in the stories created.  A lovely book for gift giving.   

                                                                                                Hardbound $20, NOW $10

 DAILY MEDITATIONS AND PRAYERS FOR THE CHRISTMAS ADVENT FAST AND EPHIPHANY

By Presbytera Emily Harakas and Father Anthony Coniaris

Another seasonal appropriate selection is this daily meditation selection which covers the dates November 15 through January 7.  Each day’s Epistle and Gospel readings are listed as well as a section entitled “Liturgical Services” and “The Mother of God.”  In addition, there is a part devoted to the related prophecy and a page dedicated to pondering various introspections regarding the Birth of the Messiah.  Presbytera Harakas and Father Coniaris have prepared an excellent guide to prepare our hearts and souls for the true meaning of Christmas.                                                                                           

                                                                                            Softbound $9

A CHRISTMAS STORY

Brian Wildsmith

 A superb and well-loved author and illustrator brings dazzling color, imagination, and enchantment once again to young readers.  A little girl and baby donkey follow the path Mary and Joseph take on their way to Bethlehem.  Along the way they see King Herod’s palace, the shepherds, and the inn leading to their destination—the nativity.  This unique story with its paintings of brilliant colors reflects the joyous miracle of Christ’s birth.

                                                                                            Hardbound $17

 ONLY A STAR

Margery Flackman

Nancy Carpenter, Illusrator

 What brightens the stable to welcome the child?  Only a star—a Christmas star.  Readers will be interested to know that the little creatures (dragonflies, snails, doves, etc.) who help brighten the stable in this story lived in the Holy Land when Christ was born, and they live there still.  An explanation and picture of each animal is given at the conclusion of the book.  A beautifully illustrated and touching children’s story that discloses the quiet surroundings of Jesus’ birth.

THE HERMITESS PHOTINI

By Archmandrite Joachim Spetsieris

Here is an in-depth treatise on the circumstances surrounding the life of Photini, who withdrew from the world to live as a hermit devoted to God’s Word. It examines the challenges both practical and spiritual, which she overcame to attain great spiritual heights. It is a truly intriguing story for all of us who reflect on what calls people to such a life and how they live it.

                                                                                         Softbound, $8.00

RAISING THEM RIGHT

A Saint’’ Advice on Raising Children

By Theophan the Recluse

Saint Theophan, who live in the 1800’s, having received his education and having served in the Lord’s ministry, withdrew to a remote monastery in Russia to begin writing his observations on the human condition. His description of the cycle of human psychological development is uncanny in its accuracy and practical spiritual advice. If one didn’t know the genre from which these writings came, they seem current in their perspective.

                                                                                         Softbound, $6.00

NORTH STAR: ST. HERMAN OF ALASKA

By Dorrie Papademetrious

This historical-fiction story for children takes place over two hundred years ago in Alaska. Father Herman, a Russian Orthodox missionary, lives among the Aleuts for forty years. His gentle ways, teachings, and love for God are seen through the eyes of a native child. Father Herman is considered the North Star of the              Aleuts—always guiding them.

                                                                                         Hardbound, $16.00

GOOD NEWS FOR LITTLE PEOPLE

By Kenneth N. Taylor

In this children’s book, biblical stories about Jesus give insight into His life including His birth, teachings, and resurrection. The book describes countless miracles including how Jesus brought a twelve-year-old girl back to life. A short prayer, a Bible verse, and questions for consideration follow each story. Children can benefit by sharing this book with an adult.

                                                                                         Hardbound, $12.00

I SEE THE MOON

By Kathi Appelt

In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, a small girl dreams that she is lost at sea. She is frightened and doesn’t know how she will return to safety. The moon is the first sign of God’s comforting love, and she continues to experience even greater comfort with each bit of nature she encounters like the sun and stars. This is a delightful book with amazing illustrations.

                                                                                         Hardbound, $15.00

WHITNEY STOWS AWAY ON NOAH'S ARK

By Therese Johnson Borchard

Ten-year-old Whitney just moved to a new school where she is trying to fit in. She joins her classmates in taunting a boy who is a computer whiz. Troubled by her behavior, she seeks answers in her deceased grandmother’s precious Emerald Bible. Whitney is transported back in time and finds herself with Noah who is ridiculed for building a boat in the desert. Find out how she applies the lesson she learns from thousands of years ago to her present-day predicament. This book is part of "The Emerald Bible Collection"—stories of Whitney and her friends who enter the magical world of the Bible.

                                                                                         Softbound, $6.00

   AN UNBROKEN CIRLE

Editor—Father Paisius Altschul

This book is an engaging series of articles assembled from several Conferences on Ancient Christianity and African-American Conferences at St. Mary of Egypt Orthodox Church in Kansas City, Missouri. For the most part, the link of Africa and its involvement in the history of Christianity has been vastly disregarded. The Orthodox Church in Africa is unique in its establishment for it was prophesied in Isaiah 19:19 that "there will be an altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt". the three Magi came. The Fathers of the Orthodox Church, including St. Gregory the Theologian, St. John Chrysostom, and St Basil came to study in Alexandria. Monastic life spread throughout Africa. There are Saints such as St. Moses the Black and St. Anthony the Great whose entire history originates in Africa. An abundance of Martyrs were slain in Africa defending their Christianity. How do these events cross the ocean and affect our history here in America? The quiet suffering of the slaves, who held their Christianity and spirituality first and foremost came from their prototypes in the Ancient Christian World. It is amazing to ponder the resonance of that profound connection. After reading this eye-opening book, the kinship of the brotherhood of man is clear. It is time to embrace our rich historical heritage as our hope for the future.

WALKING WITH GOD (board book series)

Heidi Bratton & Sally Anne Conan

The award-winning authors share God’s message in a series of simple books for young readers. The moving and appealing black and white photographs of children enhance the stories. These enduring board books are small and sturdy for little hands.

1.Little Ways to Give God Praise. A rhyming book showing how to praise God in many ways throughout the day.

2.The Little Shepherd. A child tries to find a lost lamb like the story of the Good Shepherd.

3.Count Your Blessings. A rhyming book showing children how to count from 1 to 10. Blessing 1…blessing 2…

                                                                                     Hardbound $6 each

THE APOCALYPSE IN THE TEACHINGS OF ANCIENT CHRISTIANITY

By Archbishop Averky Tauishev & Father Seraphim Rose

In these days of tribulation, much thought is given to the end times. Many are attempting to interpret events as the signs of the apocalyptic age, but are based on fallible human speculation rather than on the revealed wisdom of the Orthodox Church. The book takes the reader through each verse with extensive parallels and commentaries by God-illumined teachers.

                                                                                     Softbound $10

THE ART OF PRAYER

An Orthodox Anthology

Compiled by Igumen Chariton of Valamo

Translated by E. Kadloubovsky & E. M. Palmer

Edited with an introduction by Timothy Ware

To say that ‘prayer is powerful’ is an understatement. This book analyzes and explains various types of prayer. As St. Paul stated, "Be unceasing in Prayer" and with the knowledge of what kind of protection it offers, one cannot afford to not pray. Some other aspects that are discussed are the dangers of illusion and discouragement and the need for seclusion and inner peace.

                                                                                     Softbound $18

LIVING WATERS FOR A PARCHED LAND:REFLECTIONS ON THE PSALMS FOR ORTHODOX CHRISTIANS

By Collette D. Jonopulos

By the author of One Thing Needful: Meditations for the Busy Orthodox Woman, this well- written book offers vibrant, contemporary reflections on each of the 150 psalms showing how they can enrich our lives today. Great for daily reading: one psalm per page.

                                                                                    Softbound $13.00

A CHILD'S PARADISE OF SAINTS

By Nun Nectaria McLees

Illustrated by Elena Stefarova

From St. Demetrios of Thessaloniki to St. Moses the Ethiopian to St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, this is a treasury of saints for the young. Presented in a warm, informal style, suitable for reading aloud, these 15 stories show the struggles and triumphs of saints throughout the world. Exquisite watercolor icons accompany each story.

                                                                                  Softbound $9.50

ATHANASIUS--THE LIFE OF ANTONY AND THE LETTER OF MARCELLINUS

Translated and introduction by Robert C. Gregg

"Athanasius-The Life of Antony is one of the foremost classics of Christian asceticism. It tells the spiritual story of St. Antony, the founder of Christian monasticism. Written at the request of the desert monks of Egypt to provide 'an ideal pattern of ascetical life,' it immediately became popular. This work contributed greatly to the establishment of monastic life in Western Christianity." --Quoted from book jacket. The Letter to Marcellinus is an introduction to the spirituality of the Psalms.

                                                                                  Softbound $19.00

THE LIVES OF THE THREE GREAT HIERARCHS: BASIL THE GREAT,GREGORY THE THEOLOGIAN ANDJOHN CHRYSOSTOM

Translated and compiled by Holy Apostles Convent.

Concise, detailed, well-written accounts of each of the three saints' lives plus the Translation of the Relics of St. John Chrysostom and the Feast of the Synaxis of the Three Hierarchs.

                                                                      Hardbound $24.50