Book of poems shows author’s faith
WEST MILFORD. Mary Beth Osiecki has collected the poems she wrote each year at Christmas.
| 27 Nov 2023 | 09:47
West Milford resident Mary Beth Osiecki holds her book, ‘Welcome Inn Christmas: An Invitation to Prayer through Illustrated Poetry.’ (Photo provided)
Every year, West Milford resident Mary Beth Osiecki wrote a poem to be placed in the Christmas cards she mailed.
She has collected those 31 poems in a book, “Welcome Inn Christmas: An Invitation to Prayer through Illustrated Poetry.”
“Reflections were given to me just prior to Christmas and (the poem) was included in Christmas cards. They tell the story of my faith as it was challenged and grew through the years,” she said.
“The poems have been arranged with the intent to pray with one each day in December so the reflections will take you through the Christmas season.”
Osiecki’s family and friends encouraged her to put the poems together and have them published.
She found illustrator Tami Joe DeListle through a recommendation.
It took about a year to put the book together. It was published about a year ago by Christian Faith.
Special occasions
Osiecki has been writing almost all of her life. She first wrote poems when she was a child.
She would write on special occasions when she felt inspired.
She has worked at Our Lady Queen of Peace Roman Catholic Church in Hewitt for 23 years in various roles.
She is a retired educator and spiritual director and now is a spiritual group facilitator.
Osiecki will be selling “Welcome Inn Christmas: An Invitation to Prayer through Illustrated Poetry” at Our Lady Queen of Peace’s Holiday Craft Fair on Saturday, Dec. 2.
The fair is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church, 1911 Union Valley Road.