Feast Days & Holidays: Review

Feast Days & Holidays by Joan Marie Arbogast
Published by Pauline Books & Media, Boston, 2012.
Available at The Catholic Company

261 b&w pages include 6-10 key saints or holidays for each month in a (8.5″x11″) wire coil bound book.

Feast Days & Holidays highlights many of the most popular saints of the Liturgical Calendar, along with secular celebrations. Each Feast Day chapter includes a profile or bio of the Saint, along with the date and liturgical color and a thoughtful prayer. A description is given for each of the secular holidays along with where and when they are celebrated around the world.

I liked the structure of each saint or holiday chapter and the simple illustrations.

I liked the Puzzle-Piece Cross for a neat decorative group project showing how we are all parts of the Body of Christ.

I’m a little biased about the Acts of Kindness Beads because I have written about this craft in the Treasure Chest and have made little craft kits and bracelets along the same idea, also inspired by St. Thérèse.

I would have liked to have seen illustrated instructions for this craft…maybe I should lend them mine. =)

I liked the Linked by Faith Paper Chain. It teaches about how we are still connected and praying for loved ones who have passed away and it reminds us to ask our loved ones for prayers as well.

While the book includes many of the most popular saints, it also includes secular holidays and celebrations, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, National Arbor Day, Victoria Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Respect Life Sunday, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, Veterans / Remembrance Day and Human Rights Day.

Although I think I have my hands full celebrating as many saints Feast Days as possible throughout the year, the program for secular celebrations may be helpful for teachers and families.

While I liked some of the drawings, crafts and recipes included, the hidden picture activities, symbol coded messages, mazes and word searches aren’t my favorite teaching tools / activities, even though they are conveniently provided as reproducibles.

Generally, it’s a good starter plan for celebrating the key Feast Days and Holidays and a welcomed resource for families and teachers.

This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Feast Days & Holidays. This is also a great Catholic gift store for all your seasonal shopping needs, such as Christian wedding gifts and Catholic Garden Gifts.