The Tapestry: The Life and Times of Francis and Edith Schaeffer

by Edith Schaeffer

Book by Schaeffer, Edith

Genres: Biography, Christian, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian Living, Religion, Memoir

652 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

About the author

EDITH SCHAEFFER is the widow of Francis Schaeffer, and with him co-founder of L'Abri Fellowship. Her many books include A Celebration of Children and The Life of Prayer. She passed away in 2013.

Recognized internationally for his work in Christianity and culture, Francis A. Schaeffer authored more than twenty books, which have been translated into a score of languages and sold millions worldwide. He and his wife, Edith, founded L'Abri Fellowship international study and discipleship centers. Schaeffer passed away in 1984, but his influence and legacy continue worldwide.

children: Susan Schaeffer Macaulay

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best, most honest biography I have ever read. It's long, due to the fact that Edith admits herself to disliking leaving out the small interesting details that make life what it is. I didn't mind. As I read this book, I felt that I had met a friend and mentor and real human being. I want to be like her, to have half her faith, intelligence, tenacity, and love. Maybe someday.

[Ruth Thumpston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hardback (own). A wonderful account of two lives through the eyes of a wife, mom, and homemaker. This is her attempt to show the intricate "weaving" together of stories that God uses in his tapestry of history. Fascinating to read about miraculous answers to prayer, the intellectual and spiritual formation of Fran, Edith's homemaking role around his ministry that put their many guests at ease, the providential placement of particular people at the perfect times... I enjoyed her joyful and honest narrative and a good reminder to live by prayer and faith in the Writer of history.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is just a gem. A hefty gem (650 pages!), but so worth the time. Edith Schaeffer is the kind of writer that makes you feel like you’re all cozied down in her living room with tea, just hearing her chat about her God and what it means to love and trust Him in the dusty, dirty, working realities of today.

Here is the story of Francis and Edith’s lives from their parents’ stories onward, all interspersed with Edith’s profound way of expressing and applying truth. At times (especially about two-thirds in) the book gets a bit cumbersome as Edith goes through many dates and people that have very little significance to us now, but keep pressing through. The last bit is precious...

Honest, real, funny and surprising at times, thought-provoking and inspiring, this is the story of two very human people who were used in their weakness by God to touch countless people over multiple generations. Highly recommended... if you are fortunate enough to find a copy!

[Barbara Radisavljevic]

This is tough going for the first 200 or so pages, but worth the effort. It shows how the choices our ancestors made eventually affect us and how our choices today will affect our children and other family members for generations to come. This book is about family continuity and the importance of commitment in family relationships rather than just living for the moment, selfishly making choices that will harm those who come after us.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

In general, I don't think Edith Schaeffer is a very good writer, but I did enjoy this book. It starts with her childhood in China, through college and her marriage to Francis, then their family and work life over the span of several decades. Her spirituality is amazing, particularly her ability to trust God and see His work in every area of life.

[Erin Powe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This took me a while! Good book about the Schaeffer family.. it was cool to see so many times God provided for their needs in response to prayer.
My favorite bits were near the beginning, I think, when Edith talked a lot about the tapestry and the winding of human lives through history.
Their lives wore me out! They sure didn't rest much.

[Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed many of Edith Schaeffer's books so this detailed biography of their lives only added to my respect and love for her. Her "no nonense" approach to life and faith is a breath of fresh air.

[Sarah Blount · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edith Schaeffer is precious. I enjoyed reading their story through her perspective. I would have loved visiting L’Abri in the Swiss Alps for one of her Sunday Afternoon Teas.

Fascinated to hear of their early start in children’s ministry. Their courting letters were a highlight for me. And just the fact that she couldn’t start their story with them- went back to those who came before them and told their stories.

Made me appreciate the resilience of the older generations. They endured so much hardship and loss at such young ages. Without being crippled by it. How normal suffering was. Seems like such a far away time.

Made me appreciate life. Every thread of the tapestry. The incredible God-ordained circumstances that led to my existence.

Every life matters. Every life leaves ripples. Not even a wee baby slips into the water and causes no ripple.

Took me way too long to read. But thankful for her labor of love. A gift!

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the first book I've read by Edith Schaeffer, I knew what I was getting into with her long descriptive writing. The book is riddled with wisdom from a women who had lived a full and faithful life. She was honest in her struggles and helpful in her perspective. My faith in God's sovereignty, kindness, and faithfulness has only been strengthened in reading this. The only complaint is that this book was extremely too long. Over 600 pages, which is understandable in writing about a 60+ lifetime, but she could have condensed it to 200 pages and gotten all the same points across. Ultimately, I would NOT recommend this book.

[John D Harbeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

A big long. Their life was different than I thought.

[Allyson Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shew! What a book to finish! I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the lives of Francis and Edith Schaeffer in the words of Edith herself. Who better to tell this great story that God weaved for His glory than Edith? The only reason I did not give it five stars was the length.....just over 600 pages. It was a lot to truck through, but it is no wonder with how much life they lived during their time on earth! Edith was so intentional about demonstrating the sovereignty of God as storyteller, weaver, artist, etc. in their lives and reminding her audience of that truth in every person's life. It was so encouraging to recognize through their story that every season of our lives has a way of pointing to the larger tapestry---it all has a purpose. So many lessons learned, memories made, experiences that shaped millions of people through their ministry! It was a privilege to read and I appreciate all of the work Edith put into it! History is so important and the Lord uses the interconnectedness of our lives to display the majesty of His glory. What a gift!

[LeeAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a long book with many, many details of the Schaeffer's lives over a long period of time. It was great for me to get the full picture of how their family and ministry at L'abri started and grew. Part history, part biography, part theology. I am in awe of the Schaeffers and very proud that our school is named for Francis Schaeffer.

[Bob Ladwig · Rating 4 out of 5]

The biographies of the Schaeffers, written by Edith, it really is a wonderful work. The title the Tapestry is Edith's understanding of the doctrine of providence, we really just see the back of the tapestry this side of glory yet one day we will see the great work as God intended.

[Rachel Bill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is pretty long (650 pages), but SO interesting and inspiring. I would highly recommend this book to every Christian, especially those in full time ministry. With her detailed description of their life, she constantly inserts inspiring and helpful spiritual truths/lessons.

[Jennifer McMaster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderfully told story of the lives of Francis and Edith Schaeffer by Edith. She has an excellent understanding of God's providential hand in all things. I was inspired and encouraged.

[Grace Humbles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edith is radically transparent about the Schaeffers’ challenges, arguments, doubts, fears, and experiences. The book is a massive encouragement.

[Dorcas Showalter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. The overarching theme that was in my mind the whole time I read it was that all the little decisions I make in my life will impact my future and the future of those after me.

[Brad Hoff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am interested in the subject matter of this book (Francis & Edith Schaeffer) and wanted to know more about them. I certainly do now that I have read the book. Much of the book is thematic rather than strictly chronological and it became a bit tedious at times for me. Still, a valuable book that increased my appreciation for the Schaeffers.

[Amy]

I believe Edith is now my favorite author. I learned of Francis in seminary but had never read his books or Edith’s. I’m now on a quest to seek out their books to read. This book had been sitting on my bookshelf and I was completely intimidated to read because it’s such a big book! However...I cannot put it down now. Such a timely book for me too. Seeking the Lord’s guidance in where He is leading our family to minister in a church setting and in our home. Even through a pandemic as she speaks on what that was like when they were kids. This book seems to be out of print but if you find this book, take it in. It is a gorgeous book about God being the Weaver of the Tapestry of history. How each thread is perfectly placed...

[Juliet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved this book simply because she seemed like a genuine person. Don't remember much except for the fact that she always unpacked the kitchen curtains first to make their new homes feel familiar, despite their frequent moves.

[Lisa of Hopewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reading this off and on for about a year. It grabs my attention till something else comes along. Interesting to compare the "official line" with the son's tell all style.

[Debbie Brandenburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding biography of the life and work of Francis and Edith Schaeffer. Wonderful read while challenging the reader to walk with and trust the Savior.