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The Ascetic Lives of Mothers
Annalisa Boyd knows motherhood—its challenges, its joys, and its potential for spiritual growth. In this prayer book she offers a wide selection of prayers mothers can use to intercede for their families as well as to grow in virtue themselves.
169 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
25 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 18, 2019
This is a book review on the audiobook. I was gifted a copy of this audiobook for an honest review.
After answering the call to pick an Ancient Faith audiobook to review, I was drawn to the title of this book. I am a mother. Therefore, I probably need to read this book. But, I did not read the entire title. The Ascetic Lives of Mothers: A Prayerbook for Orthodox Moms. Imagine my surprise as I began listening to this book. It is another hectic afternoon. I have finished working for the day (part time Orthodox school principal). I am at home, earbuds in, ready to dive into an audiobook when I realize- this is about prayer. And that this book is actually a prayerbook. And, this is exactly what I needed to hear on this challenging day. When I realized what this book really was about- I paused and made the decision to spend time really listening to the prayers, quotations from our Church Fathers, direction, and advice. Normally, I will listen to an audiobook for a few hours at a time (those precious hours when the boys' are at school, my husband is in his home office working, and I am doing the mom thing). This prayerbook needed more time to digest. I listened in short bursts of time over a few weeks. I found that by listening to this book while working around the house helped to keep me focused on praying while working. The book is divided into chapters with a special focus on a specific topic, prayers for different occasions, and daily prayers. The author's voice is soothing to listen to which is especially important in audiobooks.
And, listening to the audiobook now has me wanting to purchase a copy to keep in my prayer corner as the audiobook (at least on my kindle) does not have chapter names listed.
This book was a delight and a surprise! I look forward to re-listening to it in the future.
After answering the call to pick an Ancient Faith audiobook to review, I was drawn to the title of this book. I am a mother. Therefore, I probably need to read this book. But, I did not read the entire title. The Ascetic Lives of Mothers: A Prayerbook for Orthodox Moms. Imagine my surprise as I began listening to this book. It is another hectic afternoon. I have finished working for the day (part time Orthodox school principal). I am at home, earbuds in, ready to dive into an audiobook when I realize- this is about prayer. And that this book is actually a prayerbook. And, this is exactly what I needed to hear on this challenging day. When I realized what this book really was about- I paused and made the decision to spend time really listening to the prayers, quotations from our Church Fathers, direction, and advice. Normally, I will listen to an audiobook for a few hours at a time (those precious hours when the boys' are at school, my husband is in his home office working, and I am doing the mom thing). This prayerbook needed more time to digest. I listened in short bursts of time over a few weeks. I found that by listening to this book while working around the house helped to keep me focused on praying while working. The book is divided into chapters with a special focus on a specific topic, prayers for different occasions, and daily prayers. The author's voice is soothing to listen to which is especially important in audiobooks.
And, listening to the audiobook now has me wanting to purchase a copy to keep in my prayer corner as the audiobook (at least on my kindle) does not have chapter names listed.
This book was a delight and a surprise! I look forward to re-listening to it in the future.
March 16, 2018
This is a precious resource for mothers of all ages. Annalisa Boyd provides beautiful heartfelt prayers for our children on subjects that range from anxiety and complaining to laziness and lying. In addition she provides prayers for courage, diligence, patience, peace, safety and temperance. Moreover, there are prayers through the stages of motherhood as well as those for godchildren and step-children.
July 31, 2018
A treasure for mothers in all stages of motherhood. This book is such an encouragement and such a helpful resource through all the ups and downs of raising children.
February 17, 2022
My favorite prayer book. I use it everyday.
February 6, 2025
This is such a fantastic prayer resource. I love the morning prayers and the other prayers for specific concerns in motherhood. I also love that each section has a prayer specifically for me and one for my children. For example, anger, has a couple prayers for my own anger, and a prayer to pray over my children struggling with anger. So it’s not just pointing fingers at my children.
February 12, 2025
This was an amazing read! Full of great prayers and reflections to incorporate in your everyday life. I especially loved the Audible version, I was able to do chores and listen to the prayers being read and say them along with the author! A great addition to any orthodox mother’s library.
February 1, 2025
I was gifted this book by a sister at church. I include it in my daily prayer and consider it a solid resource for the everyday problems and joys of mothers.
June 25, 2025
Probably the only parenting book you need.
January 4, 2025
A beautifully written prayer book for Mothers with prayers for the different stages of Motherhood and for God Mothers too. There are morning prayers and evening prayers in here that I say with my children too.
I loved that while it is a prayer book there were bits of stories scattered throughout the book which are relatable. Along with virtues and the beatitudes as well.
My favourite prayer book that I use daily.
I loved that while it is a prayer book there were bits of stories scattered throughout the book which are relatable. Along with virtues and the beatitudes as well.
My favourite prayer book that I use daily.
January 26, 2018
This is a compilation of prayers for mothers. The contents in the front breaks down the prayers into sections based on where you might be in your journey of motherhood. There are prayers for every season, every emotion, disorder of soul, prayers of thanksgiving, intercession, praise, and daily prayer. She includes a Profile of Saints that she highlights in the book. Even if you are not Orthodox, these prayers will speak to you and give you guidance on how to pray for specific situations that are close to all mothers' hearts.
September 16, 2020
A lovely little encouraging book. I particularly enjoyed the many quotes by various saints peppered throughout the book. The prayers were encouraging and helped me to feel I’m not alone praying for these things, especially for myself! It will be a resource I continuously return to.
October 10, 2014
A beautiful book full of prayers for many of the situations mothers face in the upbringing of their children.
October 10, 2017
Fabulously practically written.
Many prayers included in the book that I’m including into my personal prayer rule.
It’s format allowed me to incorporate it easily into my life.
Many prayers included in the book that I’m including into my personal prayer rule.
It’s format allowed me to incorporate it easily into my life.
October 8, 2019
A treasure. A compilation of prayers for all aspects of motherhood.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews