As a little girl Alyson d’Arms wanted to be a singer, an archaeologist or a missionary.

“I think in Junior High, that’s when your heart really forms. I decided I wanted to be involved in helping those in need. At first, I thought that might be in another country, but as I got older, I realized I didn’t need to go Overseas. This is where I was put. I knew I could bloom where I was planted.”

She has been inspired by St. Elizabeth, the new martyr from Russia, whose heart was drawn to God. St. Elizabeth witnessed her husband, the Duke killed by bomb fire. He was a target because of his affiliation with the church. She took her wealth and gave it away. She helped the poor and visited people in their homes. She spent her life giving and in prayer. The bible instructed and comforted St. Elizabeth and today Alyson immerses herself in Scripture and Orthodox Christianity. She is one of several volunteers at Archangel Bookstore. The bookstore is a non-profit and all staff are volunteers. Michael, the Archangel is the patron saint of this bookstore, a Prince of light, a defender of the faith and a protector.

“Working at this bookstore is like a Ministry. Sometimes people stumble across our store and are surprised. This is a peaceful place and people seek philosophical discussions. I have the opportunity to talk about things that really matter. It’s not just about selling books or candles.”

Many years ago while traveling thru Europe, Alyson prayed to Michael the Archangel. The origin of the name Michael means, “like unto God.”

“I prayed every day.”

Everywhere Alyson turned in Paris, whether in a church, a monastery or on Champs Elysees, she saw the icon of Michael watching over her.

“He reminded me, the presence of God is always near.”

She explains the images, the icons.

“Icons are not simply paintings. They reveal spiritual messages that are written, rather than painted. Whether it is a Saint or Christ being depicted, their presence is there. A prayerful connection is present.”

Prayerful devotion is one of the tenets of Orthodox Christianity.

“Prayer directs our hearts to God. Prayer helps with the distractions.”

Ancient Faith Radio plays in the background on this Saturday afternoon with a crescendoing chorus of rhythmical chanting. Ethiopian incense scents this little bookstore and sanctuary. Alyson explains the importance of repentance, and the relevance of looking inward to see,

“How we can become more like God.”

Both suffering and pain are used in Orthodox Christianity to strengthen and,

“Make us think of God more.”

She believes that unlike Western thinking, Orthodox Christians cannot rely on the rational mind to understand mystical events.

There is conviction.

“Faith is deeper than words on a page.”

Alyson brings her faith to the bookstore and to her fourth grade classroom.

I tell her fourth grade was my favorite. I don’t tell her, it was the first time; I didn’t have a nun in a black habit, but my first male teacher, Mr. Tucker.

She smiles when she thinks of her students,

“Their minds are open.”

I ask Alyson what teaching has taught her.

“I’ve learned patience, and an appreciation of all our differences and how we learn and perceive concepts differently.”

Tell me about the Archangel customer?

“Some people come here to buy gifts. Some people are on their own inward spiritual journey and want to understand life on a deeper level.”

As we move into Thanksgiving and this Holiday Season I want to feel the presence of God, and remain grateful.

I thank Alyson. I buy some orange blossom honey from the Monks of St. John. I open the door. 9^th Avenue is brilliant with late afternoon sunshine and I know my life is already sweeter.

NEXT WEEK: MEET LINDA, LINDA’S RUG HOUSE.