African Christian Heroes from the History of the Early Church

Christian history is full of African Christian heroes. Kids will love learning about 11 African heroes from the history of the Early Church!

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I love Christian history.

I feel like understanding historical theology, which is the study of the history of Christian doctrine, can really help us understand how Christians throughout history have developed doctrine based on events and people. That’s important background to have when we look at doctrine and worship practices in our churches today.

I also believe there is much to learn from the heroes of the faith–people who lived for Jesus in the time and place they lived their lives in. Christian biographies can strengthen our understanding of what it means to live for Jesus.

As a literature-based homeschool mom, I was always searching for biographies and overviews that fit particular time periods and geography. I think it is so important that our children know about the many places and people who have followed Jesus throughout history.

That’s the reason I’m so excited about a book for younger kids that highlights theologians and Christians who lived during the Early Church period, and who were from Africa.

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African Christian Heroes from the History of the Early Church

African Heroes by Jerome Gay, Jr. (New Growth Press, 2023) is an attractive 64-page picture book that provides overviews of the lives of eleven Christian theologians and martyrs. Winsomely illustrated by John Joven, the colorful pictures are sure to grab the attention of your 4-7 year olds. Jerome Gay Jr. is a teaching pastor in Raleigh, NC.

African Heroes contains biographies on the following people from the 2nd to 5th Centuries:

• Tertullian (c. 155 – c. 220 AD)
• Origen of Alexandria (c. 185 – c. 254 AD)
• Perpetua (c. 182 – c. 203 AD)
• Felicity (c. 182 – c. 203 AD)
• Athanasius (c. 293 – 373 AD)
• Cyprian of Carthage (c. 200 – c. 258 AD)
• Lactantius (c. 250 – c. 325 AD)
• Pachomius the Great (c. 290 – c. 346 AD)
• Cyril of Alexandria (c. 375 – c. 444 AD)
• Augustine (c. 354 – c. 430 AD)
• Shenoute of Atripe (c. 350 – c. 466 AD)

There are four pages dedicated to each person highlighted in the book, with a short biography that features a character trait that is portrayed in that Christian’s testimony. Jerome Gay, Jr. points out godly traits like leadership, commitment, love, service, and courage.

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Four reasons to teach Christian history to your kids!

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Purchase African Heroes

African Heroes is a wonderful addition to the existing literature on Christian heroes for young people, and I highly recommend it!

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Learn more about the Who What Why series and get your FREE Abolition Lapbooks here.

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Bible Resources for Your Kids

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Christian Biographies for Kids | Christian History for Kids | Theology for Kids

“As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.” – Psalm 16:3, ESV  

Christian History Matters for Our Kids.

History matters. Now, more than ever, we see how important it is for our children to know and understand history and the Bible.

Here’s why:

• God is the sovereign ruler of all things. It’s important for our kids to see his hand in the history of nations and in the lives of both peasants and kings. 
• Christian history is the story of our family history. Our kids get to see how people who love Jesus follow him.
• Understanding history can help our kids learn historic and biblical theology. They learn what the Bible says and what that means for us. They also see when the study of Scripture has taken important turns that have changed the Church.   
• Reading Christian biographies and history can be a wonderful way for kids to think outside their own time and culture. God’s Church spans centuries and includes people from every nation.    
• Christian biographies help kids consider their own faith, walk with Jesus, and the impact their witness may one day have on others–and on history. 

Elementary-aged kids need middle grade resources that are fun, a little sassy, and that teach valuable lessons. 

The Who What Why Series is the perfect resource to teach your kids about history, while helping them apply biblical truths to their lives today.

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Your kids will love the Who What Why Reformation series with illustrated narratives for 8-11 year olds. And, Martin Luther’s young adult historical fiction story makes the perfect family read aloud!
Grab the autographed Reformation Family Bundle!

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