Welcome to the Biblical Garden! at First Congregational Church of Fair Haven (Vermont) UCC!

just published book:

I have started reading this very substantial book and here are some of my reflections. The book's background on the land of the Bible and its climates is succinct and yet sufficient to give a sense for the Biblical setting in which our plants of interest grow. The background on medicine and healing in Biblical times is short and well-done. Being particularly interested in healing prayer and involved in that ministry for more than 20 years, I felt disappointed that there was not more focus in the role of prayer in healing. The author's major section about each of the thirty-eight biblical plants is well researched, well written, thorough, and interestingly presented. I am genuinely enjoying reading her work and discovering new facets about many biblical plants. Ms. Krymow's explorations about 40 other biblical plants in the index is also very well done. While the material about each plant is much more brief, it is excellent.

One of the most exciting portions of the book is the author's descriptions of biblical gardens across the country and around the world. She had done a wonderful work in exploring and describing these gardens and their unique features. She also lists addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites or e-mails if available, so a person interested in visiting or learning more can easily contact the garden. The bibliography is very thorough and would be a boon to people wanting to read more, and the index is excellent, allowing you to easily find the information you seek.

The illustrations by A. Joseph Barrish are attractive and sometimes delightfully evoke the nature of the plants they represent. In other instances when I am unfamiliar with a plant being discussed I cannot get a clear sense of the plant from the illustration. I would have preferred more photos of the plants to help me identify them. But the illustrations are nicely done and the design of the book is well-integrated. Plant illustrations show faintly behind pages of text which gives the page a visual appeal and continuity.

I have read many of the meditations and I will continue to read them prayerfully. I find I have very mixed reactions. Sister M. Jean Frisk connects something relating to the plant with life experiences. Occasionally I connect with the meditations, yet often I find them interesting but not personally evocative. This may be my own personality and I'd encourage you to read the meditations yourself.

Overall, this is a beautiful volume filled with interesting information about a subject I love. Give it a good look and perhaps you will make it your own to savor over time!

Healing Plants of the Bible: History, Lore, and Meditations by Vincenzina Krymow ISBN 0-86716-467-0 contains 240 pages, is hardbound and sells for $29.95. It is published by St. Anthony's Messenger Press and was illustrated by A. Joseph Barish with meditations by Sister M. Jean Frisk.