By Judith Dupré

Random House

352 pp.

A friend of the ministry sent me a short excerpt on this book, intrigued I thought about going to the bookstore and seeing if I could perhaps order a copy. There were six copies lining the shelf and I stood transfixed, leafing through the pages of beautiful art.

A Christmas present to myself, I have been picking up this lovely book and nibbling away at small bites of Dupre's extraordinary, and theologically sound book, "Full of Grace". The author presents written and artistic images, along with perspectives on Mary from an array of both traditional Catholic theology, and world views of Mary.

There are 59 chapters or reflections, the same number of beads on a rosary. The book is not a history book, nor it is purposefully theological or educational, it is a journey, a gift.

Somehow you feel you have the opportunity to know Mary better. It has broadened and deepened my knowledge and relationship to Mary. I recommend this book to both men and women, and people of all faiths.

What the world needs now--is a relationship to, and knowledge of, a beautiful, feminine, and nurturing woman of faith, who was the Mother of God. Mary's human experiences of relationships, maternity, love and grief not only show us a way to live our faith, but a way to trust. Dupre cuts a wide path towards Mary's heart and her beauty.