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        When I first read Wheat of God, I was struck by the fact that it was not like any other devotional book I had encountered. In this book, Dr. Eunice Lasché accomplishes something remarkable.
        First, she acquaints her readers with the life and writings of one of the most important historical figures of the early Church. We see St. Ignatius of Antioch, not as some shadowy, mythical figure from thousands of years ago, but as a real man, a true brother in Christ whose every thought, word and deed is motivated by love of our Lord. And we see him as a spiritual father—a bishop who loves his flock above his own life. We are brought into the sacred intimacy of having his very words laid out before us, the words of a man who was about to die for his faith, who knew he would soon be "ground by the teeth of wild beasts."
        Second, Dr. Lasche clearly demonstrates that the doctrines, morals and challanges of the first century Chruch are the self-same doctrines, morals and challenges of the twenty-first century Church. This bishop Ignatius, who lived within the lifetime of the Apostles, professed and lived the very faith that the Catholic Church professes and lives today. His letters are a powerful reminder that Christ founded only one Church, which continues to teach only one Truth. What comfort there is in knowing that the catechesis, guidance and admonishments which St. Ignatius gave his flock centuries ago can catechize, guide and admonish us today!
        Finally, Dr. Lasché manages to transform these ancient writings and historical truths into a powerful devotional for the individual Christian, who, like most of us, desires simple but profound ideas for meditation. As a busy mother of five, I appreciate the size and accessibility of the chapters (each is perfectly suited for bedtime reflection), and as an amateur apologist and would-be theologian, I love the depth and precision of what is presented. Fittingly, each chapter is crowned with a beautiful prayer.
        In reading Wheat of God, the twenty centuries which separate us from St. Ignatius seem to melt away. And in an era which has been marked by weak and even scandalous bishops, it is a true joy to be enveloped in the life and writings of one of the most courageous and holy bishops in history, St. Ignatius of Antioch. Dr. Lasché has given us a treasure.