This book argues that actively remembering our ancestors in the faith is a vital spiritual practice essential for understanding our present and future. Margaret Lamberts Bendroth, drawing on the Christian tradition's concept of a communion of saints, posits that connection with those who came before is not passive but requires intentional effort. She contends that integrating remembrance into the daily rhythm of life allows us to recognize the gifts and influences of past generations. The book explores how this practice shapes our identity and our understanding of the world as a legacy inherited from those who have gone before.

The book is presented as an accessible and beautifully written exploration of a new argument for honoring the past within the Christian tradition. It frames remembering not as an accidental occurrence but as a deliberate spiritual practice that connects the living with the communion of saints. The publisher's description highlights Bendroth's central thesis that this active remembrance is crucial for recognizing the gifts inherited from those who have gone before. The framing suggests a thoughtful and reflective work aimed at deepening one's spiritual life through historical connection.