Showing posts with label SaintPatrick. Show all posts
Showing posts with label SaintPatrick. Show all posts

Saturday, 28 February 2026

Saint Patrick The Boy Who Forgave - Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

Saint Patrick: The Boy Who Forgave
Paddy Bréagnamh
Mini Saints & Missionaries Library
ISBN 9798899681004
eISBN 9798899681011
ASIN B0GGJ6DGD9

Saint Patrick The Boy Who Forgave - Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

There are currently 7 volumes available in this series. But this is actually the updated or completely rewritten version of the first, which was originally called: From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day. So if you include the first edition on this saint there have been 8 volumes in the series, and I have enjoyed them a lot and keep checking for when new ones are released. I have enjoyed them all and recommended a few of them to several people. I especially loved the volume on Pope Leo XIV. This volume I picked up shortly after it released and read it the same day. The description of the book is:

“Discover the true story behind Saint Patrick—told with warmth, courage, and heart.

Saint Patrick is often celebrated with shamrocks and parades, but his real story is much more powerful.

Saint Patrick: The Boy Who Forgave introduces young readers to the inspiring true story of a boy who was taken far from home and forced into slavery. Through hardship and loneliness, Patrick learned to pray and trust God. Years later, he made a brave choice—to return to Ireland as a missionary, bringing faith, forgiveness, and hope to the very people who had once hurt him.

Written in gentle, age-appropriate language, this book shows children that faith can grow through difficult moments and that forgiveness can be one of the bravest choices of all.

Inside this book, readers will find:

     • A child-friendly biography of Saint Patrick
     • A powerful story of courage, prayer, and forgiveness
     • Reflection questions for meaningful discussion
     • A timeline and fact page for young learners

Part of the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library, this book is perfect for families, classrooms, religious education programs, and anyone looking to introduce children to real stories of faith in action.”

I now suspect that the author, Paddy Bréagnamh, is a pen name, I can only find the 7 volumes in this series and the previous one on Saint Patrick in several bookstores online. This eighth, newly released volume I have read.

 The chapters and sections in the volume are:

Introduction
1. When Patrick Was Taken
2. Taken Across the Sea
3. Learning to Pray in the Quiet
4. A Voice That Said, “Go”
5. Called to Return
6. A Shepherd of God’s People
7. Why the World Remembers Saint Patrick
8. Forgive Like Saint Patrick
Reflection Questions
Saint Patrick at a Glance
Timeline of Saint Patrick
Author’s Note
Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series

I did a comparison between the old and new volumes and they are completely different books. This volume was written to match the style and feel of the other books in the series. This volume is written for young readers, it would be considered an early chapter book. Each chapter has illustrations. The material is well put together. It is a good introduction to this saint. I highlighted a few passages while reading this volume they are:

“Every year on March 17, people all over the world wear green, wave shamrocks, and celebrate Saint Patrick. There are parades and songs, special foods, and plenty of fun. But the real Saint Patrick lived a life that was far more challenging—and far more meaningful—than most people realize.”

“Saint Patrick’s story is not just about shamrocks or celebrations. It is a story about courage, forgiveness, and choosing love over fear. It is the true story of a boy who was hurt, a man who listened to God’s call, and a saint who returned to help the very people who had once caused him pain.”

“In the quiet of the hills, far from comfort and far from home, Patrick was being prepared for something greater than he could yet imagine.”

“Patrick helped build communities of faith wherever he went. He encouraged people to care for one another, baptized new believers, and trained leaders who would continue the work after he moved on.”

“Saint Patrick is remembered around the world, but his life speaks most clearly through the choices he made—especially when those choices were difficult. His story reminds us that faith often grows quietly, and that listening to God sometimes happens in moments of loneliness, patience, and trust rather than excitement or ease.”

I hope those quotes give you a feel for this volume. This latest release in this series, even though it is a new edition of the first volume, is an excellent read. The series keeps getting better and better. It was an excellent little read in a great series. 

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2026 Catholic Reading Plan! 

Other articles about Saint Patrick:

Books in the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series:

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh

Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series

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Sunday, 27 July 2025

From Pirates to Parades The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day
Paddy Bréagnamh
Mini Saints & Missionaries Library
ISBN 9798312455243
ASIN B0DYTMKV86

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh

This is the fifth of six volumes currently available in the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library that I have read. To date I have enjoyed them all and recommended a few of them to several people. I especially loved the volume on Pope Leo XIV. The description of the book is:

“Dive into the fascinating story of Saint Patrick and discover why March 17th is a day of green, gold, and global celebration! From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day takes you on an exciting journey through history, folklore, and tradition, revealing the true story behind one of the world’s most beloved holidays.

Perfect For:

Kids who love history, adventure, and a bit of magic.
Families looking to learn, reflect on faith, and celebrate together.
Teachers and educators seeking engaging resources for Saint Patrick’s Day.
Anyone who wants to know why we wear green, hunt for gold, and celebrate with a little Irish luck!

Why You’ll Love It:

Engaging, easy-to-read storytelling that brings history to life.
Fun facts and bonus activities.
A celebration of faith, Irish culture, and the spirit of Saint Patrick.

Sláinte! (That’s “cheers” in Irish!)”

I now suspect that the author, Paddy Bréagnamh, is a pen name, I can only find the 6 volumes in this series and the one on Saint Patrick in several bookstores online. This fifth volume I have read in the I thought it was the last but while working on this review discovered a new release, Venerable Augustus Tolton: Priest of Freedom, which I immediately picked up. The chapters and sections in the volume are:

Introduction: Why Saint Patrick’s Day is Important 
 1: Kidnapped by Pirates 
 2: The Great Escape 
 3: Shamrocks, Snakes, and Miracles 
 4: The Legacy of Saint Patrick 
 5: Celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day Today 
 6: Why We Still Celebrate 
 7: Leprechauns, Rainbows, and Gold—Oh My! 
Bonus: Craft & Recipe Endnotes

This was the first volume written in this series. I understand from the publisher that there are plans for a second edition that will be expanded and also rebranded to match the others in the series. As much as I enjoyed this little volume, I look forward to the revised edition at some future point.

I have read over 20 volumes by and about this Saint, including a few translations of his Confessions, and Letter to Coroticus. He has long been a personal favourite for many reasons. My Mother and father were named Patrick and Patricia, one of my son’s middle names if Patrick. And one of the grade schools I attended was Saint Patrick’s. I have 2 different icons of Patrick in my den, and my son has a different one in his room.

This volume is written for young readers, it would be considered an early chapter book. Each chapter has illustrations. The material is well put together. It is a good introduction to this saint, and the worldwide celebration on March 17th. I highlighted a few passages while reading this volume they are:

“Saint Patrick’s Day is not just about fun traditions—it honors a man who made a lasting impact on Ireland. Saint Patrick was a real person who lived many centuries ago. His life was filled with challenges, faith, and incredible journeys. His story is one of perseverance and belief, and it continues to inspire people today.”

“Patrick was taken far from everything he knew. He was sold into slavery and forced to work as a shepherd in the vast countryside of Ireland.”

“One night, after years of hardship, Patrick had a dream that would change his life. In his dream, he heard a voice telling him, “Your ship is ready.” Patrick believed this was a sign from God, telling him it was time to escape.”

“In this dream, Patrick heard the voices of the Irish people calling out to him, asking him to return and teach them about his faith.”

“Patrick’s journey was far from over. His mission in Ireland would lead to incredible challenges, but it would also shape history. Through his faith and dedication, he would leave a lasting legacy that is still honored today.”

“But Patrick’s legacy isn’t just about one day of the year. His teachings and the stories of his life continue to inspire people around the world.”

“Patrick faced incredible challenges—being kidnapped, living as a slave, and returning to a land where he was once a prisoner to spread a message of love and hope. His story reminds us that even in the darkest times, we can find light and strength.”

“Here’s the funny thing: leprechauns weren’t originally part of Saint Patrick’s Day. The holiday started as a way to honor Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and his work spreading Christianity. But over time, especially in places like the United States, Saint Patrick’s Day became a celebration of all things Irish—and that includes leprechauns!”

“For parents and educators: Saint Patrick’s life and the evolution of Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations are rich with history and cultural significance. This book aims to introduce children to these concepts in an engaging and accessible way.”

I hope those quotes give you a feel for this volume. This book was good but the series has gotten much better since this first volume was published. The revised or second edition of this should be amazing. It was a good little read in a great series. 
  
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2025 Catholic Reading Plan! 

Other articles about Saint Patrick:

Books in the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series:

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh

Blessed Carlo Acutis: The Boy Who Showed the World Jesus - Paddy Bréagnamh

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz: The Brave Witness - Paddy Bréagnamh

Pope Leo XIV: From Chicago to the Vatican: The First American Pope - Paddy Bréagnamh

Saint Joan of Arc: The Girl Who Heard God's Call - Paddy Bréagnamh

Venerable Augustus Tolton: Priest of Freedom - Paddy Bréagnamh

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Thursday, 8 May 2025

St. Patrick and His World - Mike Aquilina

St. Patrick and His World
ISBN 9781594175046
eISBN 9781594175053
ISBN B0DMXWDLPH
 
St. Patrick and His World - Mike Aquilina

Wow what an excellent read. Over the years I have read numerous volumes about Saint Patrick and a few different translations of his surviving 2 works. This one is a most excellent offering. It is a follow up to St. Joseph and His World, which is a worthy read as well. But back to the volume at hand.

The description of this book states:

“Once again, Mike Aquilina delves into the life and world of a legendary saint too often surrounded by more “legend” and less certainty. While traversing history in an imaginative and engaging way, Aquilina’s keen interest in both historical fact and storytelling combine artfully into a powerful reminder why St. Patrick came to be one of the most beloved and well-known saints of the Catholic Church.”

The chapters in this volume are:

Prologue 
Introduction 
What We Know 
Growing up in Britain 
The Ends of the Earth 
The Escape 
Preparing for the Mission (Patrick and His Sources) 
Patrick and His Prayer 
Patrick and His Work 
The Conversion of Ireland 
Patrick and His Legacy 
Sources 

I highlighted a number of passages while working through this book some of them are:

“As a Catholic Irishman I thank God for a book about St. Patrick that distinguishes between fact and legend, expertly presenting the historical evidence without inexpertly dismissing legend as a possible source of truth."

“We also know that a direct descendant and heir to the throne of King Niall later became a Christian in response to the evangelization of Patrick’s disciples, and then a monk, and then a saint: St. Colmcille (variations include Colum or Columba) of Derry, Ireland, and then Iona, Scotland, evangelizer of the Scottish (the Picts) and the English (the Angles and Saxons). St. Colum’s conversion had a huge social impact in the Ireland of his time. Many followed him into the Church’s embrace.”

“The historical and legendary dimensions of truly great men are often difficult to distinguish. According to one St. Patrick legend, for example, after initial failures in his missionary activity, he climbed Ireland’s sacred mountain, Croagh Patrick, to spend forty days and forty nights of prayer and penance on its summit, beseeching God to grant him the blessing of being the Abraham of Ireland with a multitude of descendants as numerous as the stars of the sky and the sands of the seashore. According to the legend, his prayers were answered.”

“St. Patrick is a man perhaps more beloved, revered, and celebrated than any other Father of the Church.”

“Everybody knows St. Patrick. He’s ubiquitous in popular culture. He is the patron saint of Ireland—and patron to the enormous Irish diaspora worldwide.”

“What we know for sure about Patrick is what we find in the two pieces of writing that are indisputably his—his Confession and his “Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus.””

“Actually, the first time the story of a saint banishing the snakes from Ireland comes up in literature, the saint isn’t Patrick. It’s St. Columba. Not until about 1200 do we find the story associated with St. Patrick.”

“In another way, though, we know everything that’s really important about St. Patrick. We know him from the inside—how he thought and how he felt. We know him because he put his heart and soul into his own writings.”

“Patrick wrote two things that everybody agrees are his. One is the little book known as the Confession, and the other is the “Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus.” Everyone agrees that they must be authentic, partly because they’re so badly written.”

“If you told Patrick he was a bad writer, he would certainly agree. “And so to-day I blush and am exceedingly afraid to lay bare my lack of education; because I am unable to make my meaning plain in a few words to the learned,” 1 he tells us in one of his many apologies for his poor style.”

“As far as historians know, there is precisely one person who saw Ireland in the 400s, wrote something about it, and left us a record that has survived to the present day. That one person is St. Patrick.”

“For a Roman like Patrick, Ireland was outside. It was outside the Roman Empire and outside Christendom. It was practically outside the world.”

“Almost everything that purports to be a history of that time was written down much later. In fact, there are only two writings in all of history that describe Ireland in the 400s from the point of view of a known eyewitness—and they’re both by St. Patrick.”

“Some people would have just said it was a bad dream. But Patrick remembered this as one of the most important events of his escape. That shows us something about the way he saw the world. Events on the surface were part of the more important spiritual struggle that had been going on since the world began.”

“Patrick’s creed is different. It has all the same ideas in it, but it hits us like an emotional outburst. He has taken the facts of Catholic theology and made them into a love poem. No one could doubt after reading this that Patrick’s theology was orthodox, but more than that, no one could doubt that it was more than mere theology. It was a personal relationship with all three Persons of the Trinity.”

“He would work with the local culture, and if judges expected gifts, then that was how he would deal with them. But he would not get the gifts in any way that was dishonest, or even in any way that might possibly look dishonest. He was too conscious of his status as a walking billboard for Christianity to make such a mistake in marketing. And the man who wrote the Confession was too fundamentally honest to try to get by with anything that his own conscience wouldn’t have approved of.”

“For example, Patrick made it a habit always to refuse gifts from his converts. He dwells on that at length in the Confession, because he was apparently answering accusations that he had profited from his mission.”

“Yet these legends are history themselves. They tell us what St. Patrick meant to the generations who came after him. Looking back from an Ireland that was thoroughly Christianized, they saw St. Patrick as nothing less than the founder of their people. He was the Moses of Ireland.”

“But the life span is not the important part of the parallel with Moses. Moses led his people out of slavery to the heathen Egyptians, and Patrick led his people out of slavery to the heathen Irish pagan religion.”

“For Patrick’s biographers, though, the pagan religion was “false” in a different sense. It had real power, but its power came from the devil. It was demonic. Its power was for the purpose of leading its followers to hell.”

“This is the real Patrick. In spite of his fury—which is boiling over even as he writes these words—he still hopes that Coroticus can be saved. His human instincts may want to see Coroticus in hell, but Patrick is a saint. His prayer is that he will see Coroticus in heaven.”

“Of course, you don’t have to be a botanist to appreciate the symbolism of three leaflets making up one leaf. The important thing is that Ireland identifies itself with Trinitarian theology, and the Irish attribute that Trinitarian tradition to St. Patrick. Even if Patrick himself never plucked a shamrock leaf, he was certainly devoted to the Trinity, and he would be pleased that his disciples had learned their lesson from him so well.”

“Ireland itself has had a famously difficult history. Conquered by the English, it was a second-rate colony of a Protestant power for hundreds of years. And the English did everything they could to bury Catholicism and turn the Irish into good, enlightened Protestants. But the Irish weren’t having it. No matter how difficult it was to be Catholic, the Irish Catholics persisted. The ones who emigrated from Ireland took their Catholic Faith with them. St. Patrick taught them his persistence.”

“Another thing Patrick can teach us is his charity. He could get furiously angry, but he never gave up on anybody.”

“We can learn from Patrick to see that the Bible really is a treasury of all human experience, and that there’s always something in Scripture to help us understand the things that happen in our own lives.”

I hope those quotes give you a feel for this volume. It is wonderfully written. It is engaging and entertaining. Aquilina does an excellent job highlighting what might be legend and why, and what is likely built on an older oral tradition. With each new chapter I was more deeply engrossed in the material and how Mike presented it. 

Being of Irish descent, and having a father named Patrick and a son; Saint Patrick has always had a certain devotion and fascination in our family. I am always on the lookout for a new volume to read about this saint and his times. My favourites to date had been some of the works of Alice Curtayne, but this is an excellent volume and has eclipsed many I have read about this saint and his times. 

This is an excellent volume. Anyone from a high school level or on could easily engage with it. It would be a wonderful addition to any home, school, or church library. I can easily recommend this and the companion volume, and hope that Mike continues the series with more books. I highly recommend this book!

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2021 Catholic Reading Plan!

For reviews of other books by Mike Aquilina click here.
For reviews of other books about Saint Patrickclick here.

Other articles about Saint Patrick:

Books by Mike Aquilina:
A Year with the Angels: Daily Meditations with the Messengers of God
A Year With The Church Fathers: Patristic Wisdom for Daily Living
Angels of God: The Bible, the Church and the Heavenly Hosts
Companion Guide to Pope Benedict's 'The Fathers' 
Faith of Our Fathers: Why the Early Christians Still Matter and Always Will
Fire of God's Love: 120 Reflections on the Eucharist
Good Pope, Bad Pope: Their Lives, Our Lessons 
Love in the Little Things: Tales of Family Life
Ministers & Martyrs: The Ultimate Catholic Guide to the Apostolic Age
Praying in the Presence of Our Lord: With St. Thomas Aquinas
Roots of the Faith: From the Church Fathers to You
Sharing Christ's Priesthood: A Bible Study for Catholics
Signs and Mysteries: Revealing Ancient Christian Symbols
Sweet Gridlock: Selected Love Poems 
Terms and Conditions: Assorted Poems
The Apostles and Their Times
The Church and the Roman Empire
The Fathers of the Church Bible
The Fathers of the Church: An Introduction to the First Christian Teachers
The Mass of the Early Christians
The Resilient Church: The Glory, the Shame, & the Hope for Tomorrow
The Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church
The Way of the Fathers: Praying With the Early Christians
The Witness of Early Christian Women: Mothers of the Church
Understanding the Mass: 100 Questions, 100 Answers
Why Me? When Bad Things Happen
Yours Is the Church: How Catholicism Shapes Our World
...

Books co-written by Mike Aquilina:
A Pocket Catechism for Kids - Fr. Kris Stubna
Dion: The Wanderer Talks Truth - Dion DiMucci
Keeping Mary Close: Devotion to Our Lady through the Ages - Fr. Frederick Gruber
Living the Mysteries: A Guide for Unfinished Christians - Scott Hahn
Praying the Psalms the Early Christians - Christopher Bailey
Saint Monica and the Power of Persistent Prayer - Mark W. Sullivan
Seven Revolutions: How Christianity Changed the World and Can Change It Again - James Papandrea
Something More Pastoral: The Mission of Bishop, Archbishop, and Cardinal Donald Wuerl - Ann Rodgers
Take Five: Meditations John Henry Newman - Fr. Juan Velez
Take Five: Meditations Pope Benedict XVI - Fr. Kris Stubna
Take Five: On the Job Meditations With St. Ignatius - Fr. Kris Stubna
Talking to Youth About Sexuality: A Parents' Guide - Fr. Kris Stubna
The Ancient Path: Old Lessons from the Church Fathers for a New Life Today - John Michael Talbot
The Church: Unlocking the Secrets to the Places Catholics Call Home - Cardinal Donald Wuerl
The Doubter's Novena: Nine Steps to Trust the Apostle Thomas - Christopher Bailey
The Feasts: How the Church Year Forms Us as Catholics - Cardinal Donald Wuerl
The Grail Code: Quest for the Real Presence - Christopher Bailey
The Great Life: Essays on Doctrine and Holiness in Honor of Father Ronald Lawler, O.F.M. Cap. - Kenneth Ogorek
The Holy Land: A Guide for Pilgrims - Fr. Dave Halaiko
The How-To Book of Catholic Devotions - Regis J. Flaherty
The Mass: The Glory, the Mystery, the Tradition - Cardinal Donald Wuerl
The World's First Christmas: Jubilee 2000 - Regis J. Flaherty
Weapons of the Spirit: Selected Writings of Father John Hugo - David Scott
What Catholics Believe: A Pocket Catechism - Fr. Kris Stubna
...

St. Joseph and His World - Mike Aquilina

St. Patrick and His World - Mike Aquilina


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Sunday, 17 March 2024

Saint Patrick Ireland's - Jeannie Meekins - Beloved Saint 15-Minute Books 624

Saint Patrick Ireland's Beloved Saint
15-Minute Books 624
Jeannie Meekins
Learning Island
eISBN 9781311183217
ASIN B00IC6GU08

Saint Patrick Ireland Beloved Saint - Jeannie Meekins

I picked this up to read after reading Mary MacKillop: Australia's First Saint, from the same author in the same series. I enjoyed that first one so muchI picked up the eight volumes in the series about saints. As much as I loved that first one I found this one a bit of a disappointment. I had this and two other volumes about Saint Patrick that I had picked up that I had not read yet. Prior to reading this I have read a number of biographies and other books about Patrick, as well as a couple translations of his own Confessions and Letter to Coroticus. With that being said this volume was a bit of a let-down. 

Jeannie Meekins according to amazon has over 120 unique titles geared for young readers. Many are biographies, some are in a Fun Facts Series, and other appear to be short fiction. This one I picked up because I loved another by the author in the series. This is part of a series tagged as 15-Minute Books, which are geared to get children reading for 15 minutes a day. 

The website is now defunct, but Learning Island when I checked the internet archive machine appears to have been a site with contributors from around the world. The oldest archived versions show books available for download in PDF format and exercises to go with the books. Later iterations of the site show link to purchase cheap eBook and later even print editions of the works. There are some numbered even into the1000’s. With the most recent being from early 2013 and numbered at 1014. But I only find 163 when I search Kindle. The description of this volume is:

“St Patrick, Apostle of Ireland, is one of the best known saints of the Western World. Legends claim he converted the country of Ireland to Christianity and drove all the snakes into the sea.

Most of what we know about Patrick comes from his own writings.

Patrick wrote about his thoughts, dreams and visions. He wrote about his life as part of his teachings. He wrote how much he prayed and what he prayed for. He wrote about his sins and how his lack of education hindered his work. But he didn’t write about his personal life, or the miracles he is said to have performed.

Find out more about this man who started out a slave and became the beloved saint of Ireland, and of Irish people everywhere.

Ages 8 and up.”

The description of the Series is:

“LearningIsland.com believes in the value of children practicing reading for 15 minutes every day. Our 15-Minute Books give children lots of fun, exciting choices to read, from classic stories, to mysteries, to books of knowledge. Many books are appropriate for hi-lo readers. Open the world of reading to a child by having them read for 15 minutes a day.”

The sections in this booklet are:

Irelan’d Beloved Saint
Early Life
Escape
Patrick’s Returns to Ireland
Patrick and Laoghaire
Patrick’s Travels
Patrick and the Snakes
Patrick’s Death
After Death
St Patrick’s Cross
Blessings and Images

I highlighted a few passages while reading this volume. They are:

“Most of what we know about Patrick comes from his own writings.”

“Patrick wrote about his thoughts, dreams and visions. He wrote about his life as part of his teachings. He wrote how much he prayed and what he prayed for. He wrote about his sins and how his lack of education hindered his work. But he didn’t write about his personal life, or the miracles he is said to have performed.”

“Patrick turned to Christianity. He saw his enslavement as a test from God. He prayed constantly; day and night.”

“At some point Patrick did return home and was reunited with his family.”

“Patrick traveled around Ireland preaching, teaching and performing miracles. Some of his miracles include healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and raising nine people from the dead.”

“The Cathedral Church of Armagh was founded in 444. It became the centre of education and administration. Patrick raised the standards of schooling and encouraged the teaching of Latin. He worked to bring Ireland closer to the Western Church.”

This biography was a little confusing; events are not presented in a logical order. And there are events that I have never encountered in any of the other works on Patrick I have read. It felt like a few key facts were researched and then the biography just thrown together. The events are not always in logical order. And the meaning given to some events are strange extrapolations.  

I really enjoyed the first book I read in this series. This one was a let-down. Having picked up a number in the series I will see how the next few go. There are many great biographies of Patrick. I would recommend any of those over this one.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan! 

Books in the 15-Minute Books Series about Saints:
...

Books by Jeannie Meekins:

The Spiritual Journey of St Patrick - Aidan Larkin

Joan of Arc: The Girl Who Fought For France - Jeannie Meekins

Mary MacKillop: Australia's First Saint - Jeannie Meekins

Saint Francis of Assisi: The Patron Saint of Animals - Jeannie Meekins

Saint George: Dragon Slayer - Jeannie Meekins

Saint Patrick Ireland Beloved Saint - Jeannie Meekins

Saint Valentine: The Man Who Became the Patron Saint of Love - Jeannie Meekins

The Lives of Seven Saints - Jeannie Meekins
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Thursday, 28 September 2023

My Den – Home Office 2023

My Den – Home Office 2023

Last year I wrote a piece called My Den – Home Office 2022, since that time there have been some updates. My youngest daughter has chosen Joan of Arc and I have added another Joan icon for that. I added a St. David of Wales, because my oldest two children attend a school named after him. Last year I stated that I did not have a den or personal space for the last 11.5 years. The house we were in was smaller, 3 bedrooms and 4 of us when we moved in and 5th in under a year. For a long time I had a desk in the basement, beside my wife’s crafting desk and supplies. For the last 2 years with Covin-19 and working from home full time, I had a small desk in the living room. It placed me on the central floor of the house and when all three children were doing remote learning I could hear anything brewing on the floor above or below. Then the house we have been renting for over 11 years was put on the market. We moved to a very beautiful hose. The children each have their own rooms now. And my wife and I share a space. It is my den/home office, and her scrapbooking space. For the first 6 months I did not put anything up in the den. I had stuff that had been around my desk at home, and always had stuff up in my cubicle at work. But I wanted to plan this out. This is what it now looks like almost 18 months later.

After that initial 6 months I put up a few icons I already had. And started planning what I would like my office to look and feel like. It has taken me another 5 months but this is where my set up now. Work, Play, Pray! 







Across the top above the desk:

Pope Benedict Praying the Rosary
Our Lady Immaculate Heart 
Saint Josemaria Escriva
Divine Mercy (a copy of the one in our church.)
Mary (Have had this one for years from my grandmother)
Our Lady of La Salette 
The Father Icon (from St Mark's School of Reading)

The three coming down from these are my children's confirmation saints.


Inside these my:

Beside these:

Saint Gemma Galgani
4 Archangels
Our Lady of Perpetual 
Saint Brendan
Saint Patrick

On the outside of the corner:

Our Lady of the Snows
Saint Kyriaki
Saint George and the Dragon
Saint Nicholas
Saint David of Wales

On the bookcase behind me:

Immaculate Heart of Mary
Saint Joseph

Pope Benedict XVI
Damien of Molokai
Our Lady of La Salette 

Beside bookcase:

Crucifix with soil from Jerusalem
Saint Damien of Molokai
Saint Brigid of Ireland
Saint John Paul II

On the desk:
Memento Mori Skull
Homeless Jesus - Timothy Schmalz
When I Was a Stranger - Timothy Schmalz
Statue of Mary
Pocket Cross

The new icons and artwork come from a variety of sources, for some I have linked to the sites above. Some more detailed pictures below. 



Timothy Schmalz has some incredible sculptures, and they are all over the world.


These are icons from Theophilia on Deviant Art. I love that they are younger versions of the saints than often we encounter. I picked up Saint Patrick for me, Joan of Arc for my 26 year old daughter I just found out about last year. And the other three for my children here at home. 


These are 3 of 6 Greek Orthodox Catholic Icons I purchased. They are smaller than I expected. But on a nice thick piece of stained wood. The Smaller icons come from Holy Art.

Finally the two painting on either side of the entrance were both painted by my youngest. She is 11 now Jack Skellington was painted a few years ago. The Fall Scene this last fall at school.

The Divine Mercy at out church was painted by a local artist for a previous pastor. I love her rendition of it.


The main sources for my religious art are:


As a side note about the confirmation saints for my children I pray for them each time the icon catches my attention. When they are older and moving out for work or school I plan on taking them down and giving them to them. I hope you enjoyed the tour of my space. And maybe it will inspire you to add an icon, sculpture or two to your own work space. 

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