How to Become a Saint: A Beginner's Guide

by Jack Bernard

Saints are not supermen or superwomen, people with some extra spiritual oomph that the rest of us lack. The life of a saint is simply one that is fully oriented toward God, and this life is attainable for everyone. In How to Become a Saint, Jack Bernard explains that true holiness is not the special calling of a few, but the will of God for all people. In it, he offers vision, encouragement, and practical disciplines for pursuing such a life of faith. Rather than advocating just trying harder to become a better person or simply accepting an "anything goes" attitude of Christian spirituality, Bernard roots his writings in the church, encouraging disciples to pursue holiness within a community of believers instead of a "me and God" view of personal spirituality. With a pastoral heart and the wisdom that comes from persevering through many years of spiritual struggle, Jack Bernard seeks to bring hope to serious disciples that sainthood is not only possible but is God's desire and intention for all believers.

Genres: Spirituality

160 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2007

Reviews

[Kate]

The blurb that made me want to read it:

Most people cannot imagine striving for sainthood in their lives. They assume sainthood is reserved for "perfect" Christians who never stumble or doubt. In How to Become a Saint, Jack Bernard challenges this vision of sainthood, redefining it as a path to holiness available to anyone who is willing to embark on the journey. Sainthood is not the special calling of a few, but God's will for all believers--even the ordinary and imperfect. Bernard shows that becoming a saint is not about doing more or working harder to get it right, but rather about living into God's grace and accepting the call to wholeness. And, Bernard argues, this happens best within a community of believers rather than as an individualistic pursuit.

In a time when Christians are inundated with countless guilt-producing checklists of "Things to Do," Bernard's message will resonate. He encourages less "doing" and more resting in God's grace. Bernard is humble and pastoral as he acknowledges the struggles of the spiritual journey and shows how to cultivate a relationship with God. The book transcends denominational and cultural boundaries to reach a wide readership.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely and simple read about devotion to God. While there were some challenging words about devotion to Church as well I wasnt quite sure where I sat with that... but the last chapter, about what to do when other people fail, is worth the whole book and the clearest, most persuasive case for grace that Ive heard. Beautiful.

[J Crossley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Most saints were average sinful people before faith changed their path. In this book, the author shows how by making a few changes to your life, you can become more saintly in your interactions with other people.

[Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

we are all called to the vocation of sainthood.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

My second time reading this, and it's as potent as ever. Tons of thoughts about how and why to be fully devoted to God -- being saints = being set apart, being holy.

[Navis Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a great book to read and follow.