A Candle in the Window

Tradition holds that the Irish used to put a candle in the window on Christmas Eve. New England homes are famous for them. The reason for the candle was a symbol - that if Mary and Joseph, or any traveler came by on that holy night needing a place to stay, the candle would let them know there was a welcome in that home. They would even leave the door unlatched, and a simple fare on the table.

However, at Christmas Mass a few years ago, I heard about the real reason the Irish put the candle in the window. At a time in Ireland when it was unlawful for priests to celebrate Mass, the candle was a secret message to any priest travelling on the road, that the residents within would welcome him, and he could celebrate Mass in that home. If any British soldiers questioned the home owners about the candle in the window, they used the story about Mary and Joseph
Whatever the origin, our little candles can make a beautiful and simple declaration on these dark New England nights..."The one who is the True Light, who gives light to everyone, has come into the world." John 1:9

Why We Are Named "The Armory"

When my husband Charlie and I named our store, we both had the sense that we were to be a supply station for the body of Christ in this region. The definition of armory said it for us: a building in which weapons are store
We believe that what we sell here is meant to build faith, increase knowledge of the Lord and His ways, equip believers for their walk with Christ, and arm us for the spiritual battle in which we are all engaged.
Of course the following scripture explains it best:

"We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments." 2 Cor.10:4

Although not all new publications are fresh manna, it is our committment to provide for this community those books, music, even gifts and devotional helps that we believe will be God's mighty weapons.

I salute you, my fellow warriors. May your mind be clear, your heart noble and your faith strong in this hour. Remember we fight a war already won.

All praise be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Buying a New Bible

Whether you want to give a bible as a gift, or are in the market for a new one, the choices available today are overwhelming. But there are just a few basic questions that can help you narrow down your selection.

1. Who is the bible for? From toddlers, to teens, women, men, couples, special occasions, recovery, today's publishers have combined the most popular translations with devotional material and study helps that are geared to a particular audience.
2. Which translation? An easy test I give a bible before I buy it: I open to Psalm 23. If I like the way it reads, since I am already familiar with the King James Version ("He leadeth me beside the still waters...") then I can quickly compare.
3. What will it mainly be used for? Study bibles are available in every translation, some giving great information about "all things bible". Devotional bibles are great for helping you grow spiritually. Pocket bibles are great for the car or purse. Parallel bibles take 2 or more different translations and list them side by side on a page.
4. What kind of cover? Now you can buy a camo bible, as well as Genuine Morrocan Leather. Bonded Leather is sturdy, and less expensive than Genuine Leather. Hard Covers are great for kids bibles.

Hope all this info didn't confuse you more. Please be sure and check out our online store selection of bibles at The Armory Bookstore Online