Preparing for the Messiah is a thoughtful, well-organized workbook for church school teachers. It is also an informative look into one of the most celebrated church traditions. Doris Williams and Patricia Griggs show teachers how they can better prepare their students for "the coming of the Messiah"-i.e., Advent. By participating in the numerous activities outlined here, students will have a deeper awareness of the rich meanings behind the Advent season.

Williams and Griggs start with the teacher's preparation for the season. From there, they guide teachers in the direction and supervision of a number of Christmas activities for all age groups. Included are suggestions for games, music, enjoyable work projects, films, and other activities. There are even instructions for the making of a "Jesse" tree, with cutout patterns for the ornaments at the end of the book.

DORIS WILLIAMS is director of Christian education at the First Presbyterian Church in Livermore, California. PATRICIA GRIGGS has conducted many workshops throughout the country to aid church teachers