Tea at Trianon: Why God Matters

John Wilson Croker on Marie-Antoinette

"We have followed the history of Marie Antoinette with the greatest diligence and scrupulosity. We have lived in those times. We have talked with some of her friends and some of her enemies; we have read, certainly not all, but hundreds of the libels written against her; and we have, in short, examined her life with– if we may be allowed to say so of ourselves– something of the accuracy of contemporaries, the diligence of inquirers, and the impartiality of historians, all combined; and we feel it our duty to declare, in as a solemn a manner as literature admits of, our well-matured opinion that every reproach against the morals of the queen was a gross calumny– that she was, as we have said, one of the purest of human beings."

~from History of the Guillotine by John Wilson Croker, 1844

Edmund Burke on Marie-Antoinette

"It is now sixteen or seventeen years since I saw the queen of France, then dauphiness, at Versailles; and surely there never lighted on this orb, which she hardly seemed to touch, a more delightful vision. I saw her just above the horizon, decorating and cheering the elevated sphere she had just begun to move in, glittering like a morning star full of life and splendor and joy. Oh, what a revolution....Little did I dream that I should have lived to see such disasters fall upon her, in a nation of gallant men, in a nation of men of honor and of cavaliers! I thought ten thousand swords must have leaped from their scabbards, to avenge even a look which threatened her with insult. But the age of chivalry is gone; that of sophisters, economists, and calculators has succeeded...."

~Edmund Burke, October 1790

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Why God Matters

I just finished reading Why God Matters, a series of stories and meditations by Deacon Steve Lumbert and his daughter, Karina Lumbert Fabian. With frankness and simplicity the authors tell of how God can be found in the very ordinariness of life, in the performance of our daily duties, in every joy and sorrow. Replete with quotes from Scripture, the Catechism and the writings of the saints, the book is not only deeply inspiring but offers a practical guide for organizing one's activities so that there will always be time for prayer. I enjoyed the family stories and feel that I have met the precious lady to whom the book is dedicated, Mrs. Lumbert, Steve's wife and Karina's mother, whose strong faith was passed on to those she loves. How happy she must be to see this short but powerful book which will surely lift many hearts to God. Congratulations!
More information on Why God Matters, HERE.

Karina Fabian said...: Hi, Elena!

Thanks for the review. Dad and I are so glad you enjoyed the book.

My mom, Socorro, is indeed a special lady. I'm a most blessed daughter!

Blessings to you!
Karina; September 15, 2010 at 10:07:00 AM EDT
elena maria vidal said...: Thank you, Karina, it was my pleasure!; September 15, 2010 at 10:21:00 AM EDT
Tribute Books said...: Elena - thank you for sharing 'Why God Matters' with your blog readers.

Your description of the book's style is spot on. Deacon Steve and Karina write with frankness and simplicity, and it is SO refreshing. The reader isn't left grasping for clarity. You're right, it is a practical guide that is at the same time inspiring.

Best wishes,
Nicole
Tribute Books; September 15, 2010 at 1:48:00 PM EDT