Saint Isaac Jogues: With Burning Heart (Encounter the Saints Series,12)
#12 in Encounter The Saints Series
What’s inside...
A biography of Isaac Jogues, a French Jesuit priest who worked as a Catholic missionary among the native peoples of New France until he was martyred in 1646. Father Isaac Jogues had an unyielding desire to evangelize the Native Americans he met in the New World. After being ordained, he was dispatched to Quebec, Canada, to minister to the Huron Indians. Despite facing severe adversity, including being tortured by the Iroquois and eventually killed by the Mohawks, his commitment to spreading Christianity remained steadfast. Isaac Jogues' life exemplifies remarkable courage and dedication to sharing his faith amidst formidable challenges.
Character compass
Saint Isaac Jogues
René Goupil
Discussion points
How did Saint Isaac Jogues show courage and faith during his missions?
Why do you think it's important to help and understand people who are different from us?
What can we learn from Saint Isaac's dedication to his beliefs and values?
How do you think Saint Isaac felt when facing challenges?
What qualities of Saint Isaac do you admire the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your thoughts about Saint Isaac Jogues' life and his journey. Encourage your child to imagine being in different scenarios from the book and ask how they might feel or react. Highlight the importance of persistence, faith, and understanding others. Make connections between the book’s themes and your child’s everyday experiences to make the discussion more relatable. Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to ask questions as well.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story of Saint Isaac Jogues showcases his incredible strength and resilience as he faces immense challenges and danger, particularly during his missionary work.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain steadfast and resilient when facing their own personal challenges, whether in school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through his interactions with different communities, including the Native American tribes he worked to convert, Saint Isaac Jogues demonstrates a deep level of empathy and respect for different cultures and beliefs.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of respecting diverse perspectives and cultures, promoting empathy in their interaction with peers from varied backgrounds.
Example Lesson: The power of faith and commitment
Explanation: Saint Isaac Jogues's dedication to his faith and missionary work, despite the risks and sacrifices involved, highlights the strength that can be drawn from committed beliefs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of dedication and staying true to their convictions, whether related to their studies, hobbies, or personal beliefs.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Navigating uncharted territories and facing uncertainty was a significant part of Saint Isaac Jogues's life and mission, which illustrates immense courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to approach new experiences and challenges with courage, whether trying new activities or making new friends.
Example Lesson: The impact of selflessness
Explanation: Saint Isaac Jogues's life was marked by acts of selflessness and service to others, showing the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to engage in acts of kindness and consider the needs of others in their daily interactions and decisions.