Everyone Belongs - Mariko Clark and Rachel Eleanor

"I’m writing the story Bible I wish to see in the world. Not just for my daughter, not just for girls, but for all kids. Because when it comes to the love of God, everyone belongs.” Mariko Clark

Our episode this week is with the author and illustrator of the new and wildly popular children's Bible story book, The Book of Belonging, Mariko Clark and Rachel Eleanor. Their passion to provide a resource for kids (and their parents) that is wildly inclusive, historically accurate and highly engaging has us buying copies left and right. Our conversation was filled with laughter, light, healing and even tears.

Some of the topics we explore are these:

• The inspiration for The Book of Belonging and how it is different from traditional Bible storybooks.
• Celebrating diversity within God’s people.
• The central message of belonging and how it might be a boots-on-the-ground word for love.
• The importance of the contemplative practices of mindfulness and wonder moments for us and our kids.
• Why featuring overlooked, female-centered stories is an essential for spriitual formation.
• Shaping a child’s sense of identity and understanding of belonging to God.

Our favorite words from this podcast episode were sweatpants, safe harbor, poop, companioning, and of course, belonging. Find out why when you listen.

You can find the Book of Belonging at the following:

Website: thebookofbelonging.com

Substack: https://substack.com/@thebookofbelonging

Instagram: @marikoclark and @rachel.eleanor.art