The Joy of Teaching: Take, Thank, Bless, Break, Give

This book connects the spiritual aspect of teaching with the practical aspects of teaching. Anything that connects with the Eucharist is special, because Christ is always present in the Eucharist. Joanmarie shows us the sacredness in teaching as she herself embodies in her own teaching. The text walks you through the principle elements of Eucharist within teaching: Take, Thank, Bless, Break and Give.

Upon first glance , this book would appear unintimidating to the reader, however what a surprise to find such powerful content in a small package. Teaching as Eucharist by Joan Marie Smith is an insightful treasure with such wisdom! Christian education is to be approached with reverance. The author encourages taking the perspective of a true teacher,with Jesus as the ultimate example. The acts of TAKE,THANK,BLESS,BREAK,GIVE just as in the Holy sacraments, are effective and demonstrate the interaction of spirit and humankind. This is a beneficial resource for anyone involved in the ministry of education.

This book was wonderful as a seminary resource when used in the classroom environment. This book provides practical information for a broad spectrum of reflections. How wonderful is it to have in your back pocket for a quick meditation.Outlines practical strategies when used as a teaching tool.References are made to "Take" "Thank" "Bless" "Break" and "Give" in aspects of a teachers' life.

Joanmarie Smith, Professor of Pastoral Theology at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, provides an approach to viewing the ministry of teaching within the context of the sacramental life. Using five phrases from the Great Thanksgiving of the Eucharist, she takes the physical acts of "take, thank, bless, break, give" and translates those into a sacramental perspective on ministry. While targeted primarily to teachers and catechists, this book is valuable for all who wish to approach their ministry and their lives sacramentally.

In her book, Sister Joanmarie Smith, CSJ, imposes the Eucharistic actions of take, thank, bless, break, and give onto the teaching task. She then goes a step further by encouraging the reader to look at her/his life roles as actions contained in the Eucharist. As a result of reading Sister Joanmarie's book, the reader comes away with an increased self-awareness of the interconnectedness of Eucharist and our daily lives. If you are seeking spiritual growth and personal understanding of the implications of the Eucharist in your life, this book is highly recommended.