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The Way of Love
Roger Hutchison, Claire Westwood
Morehouse Publishing
Jan/2025, 48 Pages, Hardback, 5 x 8
ISBN: 9781640657540
A beautifully illustrated poetic rendering of the promise made at baptism, an ideal gift.
Millions of people are baptized every year, most as babies, in an important and joyous family ritual. Once children reach reading age, an understanding of the meaning of their baptism is an essential part of their formation and opens up their lives to the power of Christian community. With 22 colorful illustrations and a vibrant concise lyrical narrative, The Gift of Baptism is the perfect learning tool for children embarking on their journey of faith. Its poignant style teaches readers about the Baptismal Covenant and nurtures understanding of concepts like the Holy Trinity, Jesus’ teachings, and living with love at the forefront of your mind and in your actions.
A keepsake for the newly baptized, and equally valuable for any child embarking on their faith journey, this book is perfect for individuals and enriching Sunday school and youth group discussions. Parents, grandparents, godparents, educators, and spiritual mentors will find it a cherished resource for helping children understand and embrace their baptismal calling. The heartwarming illustrations and wholesome narrative make it accessible and inviting for all.
Roger Hutchison is a bestselling author and illustrator of nine books including, The Art of Calm, My Favorite Color Is Blue. Sometimes., The Very Best Day: the Way of Love for Children, and The Painting Table. He is a recipient of the Governor’s Order of the Silver Crescent Award and is an award-winning photographer. Roger serves as the Director of Children's and Youth Ministries at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, TX. He lives outside of Houston.
"The Gift of Baptism by Roger Hutchison is a captivating journey into the heart of Christian beliefs, beautifully complemented by Claire Westwood's enchanting illustrations. Through short poems and dreamlike mixed-media artwork, the book delicately unravels the essence of childlike faith and invites readers of all ages to explore the depths of their spiritual convictions. Each page offers profound insights into the meaning of belief in God, serving as an invitation to embark on an imaginative exploration of the gift of baptism. Whether for parents seeking to nurture their children's spiritual growth or individuals yearning for a deeper understanding of their religious tradition, this book is a poignant reminder of the beauty and wonder inherent in the journey of faith."—The Rev. Santiago Rodriguez
"Westwood's whimsical art paired with Hutchison's lyrical text pours forth God's unwavering love in The Gift of Baptism."—Maria Marianayagam, author of the Baby Virtues series
"Roger Hutchison's The Gift of Baptism is a tender exploration of the love that flows from God's heart to ours, beautifully complemented by Claire Westwood's stunning illustrations. With gentle words and captivating artwork, Hutchison and Westwood remind us that baptism is a sacred moment of initiation into God's family, marked by unconditional love and acceptance. It is a treasure, to be sure!"—Traci Smith, Director of Family Faith Every Day
"In The Gift of Baptism, Hutchison sprinkles precious words like seeds for the soul, while Westwood’s colorful illustrations create a world of breathtaking beauty."—Ann Marie Stephens, Author of the Arithmechicks series
"This is the kind of book that calls in young and old to remember the sacred gifts shared in baptism. Through it's beautiful illustrations and poetic words, we are invited again to the water's edge to remember who we are, Whose we are, and how we are to live as God's people: seeking and serving Christ in all persons, loving neighbors as ourselves, striving for justice and peace, and respecting the dignity of every human being, at one with and in Christ."—Rev. Kelsey Davis, Deacon, The Cathedral of All Souls, Asheville, N.C.
"I hope this book finds itself in the hands of people all over the Christian spectrum, offering a broader view of how we can think about the Christian faith. Much like music, children's books have a way of grasping the heart. May this book be music and grasp the hearts of humanity of all ages and all walks of life. This book is hope."—Caroline Vogel, spiritual companion, Episcopal priest, and author of God Spark
“ …a tremendous artist and illustrator..”—Traci Rhoades, author of Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost
“Hutchison's imagery and art are a feast for the eyes, soaking into the mind's memories and rendering fresh tears, smiles, and that human-divine alchemy of prayer that all great art performs.”—Troy Bronsink, founder of The Hive: A Center for Contemplation, Art, and Action
“My Favorite Color is Blue. Sometimes.belongs in every collection of books about children and grief.”—Dr. Wendy Mogel, Ph.D, New York Times bestselling author of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee.
“Hutchison's heartfelt gift is understanding the power of our life experiences and the importance of creativity..”—Faith in Books
“A compassionate, helpful, faith-oriented series of meditations on finding peace in a tumultuous world.”—Kirkus Reviews for The Art of Calm
