Behold the Wonder: The Coming of Christ Through Mary's Eyes

This Advent, awaken your imagination and behold the breathtaking wonder of God's love through the eyes of Mary.

Behold the Wonder invites you to experience Advent in a fresh and immersive way--by stepping into the world of scripture and witnessing the story unfold around you. Imagine breathing in the scent of lilies at the annunciation. Envision Mary embracing Elizabeth in joyful wonder. Pause to contemplate the hushed awe of the shepherds on that first Christmas night. Picture yourself traveling with the Magi beneath a guiding star, drawn to the radiant light of Christ.

Theology professor Catherine Cavadini and artist Anastassia Cassady blend the ancient monastic practices of lectio divina (divine reading) and visio divina (divine seeing) to lead you on a contemplative journey, inviting you to encounter Jesus as Mary did--with wonder, love, and trust.

This beautifully crafted full-color book immerses you in the story of Christ's birth through vivid storytelling and stunning original artwork. With Mary as your guide, you'll walk the path from the splendor of the Annunciation to the humble beauty of Bethlehem and the joyful adoration of the Magi. Each Sunday, from the beginning of Advent through the Feast of the Epiphany, you'll find an invitation to:

• Prepare the Way--Set the stage for prayer with a thoughtful reflection
• Behold the Word--Enter into scripture and God's unfolding plan
• Consider the Scene--Encounter the Word personally through lectio divina
• Pray with Lectio Divina--Engage in imaginative prayer inspired by scripture
• Contemplate with Visio Divina--Meditate on original artwork in a visual reflection
• Follow Mary Today--Be inspired by saints who embodied Mary's faith and trust
  

This Advent, let Mary lead you to a renewed sense of wonder and a deeper encounter with Christ. As you journey with her, you'll find your heart prepared to welcome Jesus anew--not just in the manger, but in your life, your prayer, and the quiet joy of Christmas morning and beyond.

Catherine Cavadini is a teaching professor and director of the master of arts program in theology at the University of Notre Dame. She teaches courses on the saints, scriptural interpretation, and Church history.

She earned a master's degree in theological studies from Duke University and a doctorate in theology from the University of Notre Dame.

Cavadini provided a theological review for the Living the Word Catholic Women's Bible and contributed a number of articles, including "Illuminating Fire: How Scripture Enlightens, Attracts, and Transforms." She is also cohost of the Living the Word Catholic Women's Bible companion videos.

Cavadini lives in South Bend, Indiana, with her husband and children.

Anastassia Cassady is a freelance artist and high school art teacher at Trinity Academy in South Bend, Indiana.

She studied art and art history at the University of Michigan and Indiana University.

Cassady has taken on many commissions, including church murals, altarpiece paintings, paschal candles, Byzantine icons, gilding a baldacchino, book covers, and oil paintings.