When Feast Faith Flourish arrived in my mailbox last week, I was hopeful from the moment I saw the tagline “holistic wellness in light of eternity.” As an admittedly holistic-minded mom, this sounded like Catholic publisher Sophia Press had hand-picked this one just for me. And as I perused this beautiful hardcover volume I felt like my hopes were fulfilled and even exceeded.
First of all, this is a premium coffee table-worthy hardcover with thick glossy pages, a good heft, and tons of high-quality photographs.
Then, the content! In part one, the authors delve into “Health in the 21st Century.” This includes reflections on a multitude of facets that make up our health from soil health to grazing practices, EMFs to Heavy Metals. Then the authors turn to reflections on the “Foundations” of our personal health with commentary on digestion, water, blood sugar, sleep, and so much more!
In part two, the bulk of the book, the authors turn to the Liturgical Year. I know there are plethora of Liturgical Year resources out there, but this book is truly unique because of its holistic health mindset and emphasis on not just Feasts but also Ember Days. You’ll find healthier feast day ideas like recipes with gluten free options and drinks like sun tea, ideas for planting, walks to take, foraging, and much more! To give you a taste, in the Summer section you’ll read about Breath in Native American culture, modern science, and in light of the Holy Spirit. You’ll find recipes for pesto garden bowls and Summer salads and charcuterie and more. You’ll read about salt and sunlight. You’ll also find a whole section on mineral-boosting summer drinks to make at home. You’ll find sections on flower arranging, St. Michael’s Lent, and much more!
Besides all this, there are tons of thoughtful touches throughout that stood out. I particularly loved the Litany of Wellness at the beginning of the book. There are scripture verses strategically placed, and so many wonderful invitations for spiritual renewal throughout the year.
I think Feast Faith Flourish would make an awesome Christmas or birthday gift for any natural-minded women in your circle! Or make Christmas easy on your husband and put it on your own Christmas list. Buy it direct through my Sophia Institute affiliate link and support both a Catholic Press and this website!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of “Feast Faith Flourish” from Sophia Institute Press in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.