A Franciscan Christmas

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The true meaning of Christmas isn't found in the glitter and gifts. It's not on the tree or tucked under it. It won't be served with the cookies and eggnog. But it can be found in a place of honor in most Christian homes: the Christmas manager scene. Each piece of the Nativity has its own story and meaning in Franciscan history and Christian spirituality. Take a closer look at the crèche and learn why Christmas is central to Franciscan spirituality and how you can find a deeper meaning in the simplest of seasonal decorations.

This small-sized, beautifully illustrated book makes a perfect Christmas gift!

Kathleen M. Carroll is managing editor of books for St. Anthony Messenger Press. She is the author of Keeping the Faith in Ohio: Words of Hope and Comfort from Our Spiritual Leaders (Emmis). Jack Wintz, O.F.M., is the author of Will I See My Dog in Heaven? (Paraclete) and Friar Jack's E-spirations.

"Touching, uplifting, inspiring, comforting, and challenging, this deceptively small book reaches for the heart of the reader and the heart of Christmas. Kathleen M. Carroll, managing editor of books for Franciscan Media, leads the reader's focus to the deeper meanings of the icons of Christmas as perceived and savored by Franciscan spirituality. Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the magi, angels, villagers, musicians, the star and the animals in turn are brought to mind, each chapter preceded by a pertinent passage of Scripture. The author's reflective, conversational style and homespun examples are engaging. The content is rich in meaning and solid in its sources, richly drawn from St. Francis of Assisi: Omnibus of Sources (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2008) and writings of several Franciscan scholars. This title is highly recommended for parish, seminary, catechetical centers, pastoral theology collections of academic libraries and for high school libraries."—Frances O'Dell, O.S.F., Catholic Library World