Telling stories of heroism and humility, adventure and servitude, from the time of the early church fathers to the mid-13th century, this gorgeous reference combines engaging narrative, prayers, and feature boxes to bring the men and women of the past vividly to life. The guide follows the lives of both Eastern and Western saints, and couples their stories with evocative original artwork by Linda Baker Smith. It also offers judicious insight into how their concern for devotion, contemplation, stability, compassion, and reconciliation translate to the modern world.