THE CHRISTMAS RING

# 1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller and filmmaker, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists, and many of her novels have been developed into major motion pictures.

1. We first see the Christmas ring in the hands of Bill Bailey, the young member of the Screaming Eagles 101st Airborne Division, as he is paratrooping into France on D-Day. What connection do you have with D-Day or World War II?

2. Is there an object of great meaning that has been passed down the line in your family? Tell about it. Why is it meaningful?

3. We first meet Vanessa Mayfield on a winter trip to Breckenridge, Colorado. She and her daughter, Sadie, are on an adventure of healing after losing their husband and father. How have you handled a loss in your life? Why is that loss especially hard during the holidays? Talk about that.

4. When a loved one is no longer here, how do you keep that person present in your Christmas celebrations? What Bible verse has brought you comfort in this?

5. The next time we see Vanessa, Sadie is headed to college a few hours away, all grown up. Have you experienced the love of a child and ultimately the letting go of that child? How did God get you through that time?

6. How do you best identify with Vanessa Mayfield? In what ways are you like her?

7. Perhaps you are the college student (or were at one time) who is moving out to find life beyond your family home. How do you keep connected with family throughout the year and at Christmastime?

8. The Bible says in the Ten Commandments, “Honor your father and mother.” How is that illustrated in this book? And how do you attempt to live this out?

9. Ben Miller has a joyful heart and a love for his father, poetry, and antiques. What do you like most about Ben Miller and why?

10. Sadie is a freshman in college once the story kicks into gear. What advice would you give Sadie if you could? How would you encourage her?

11. Ben likes to make up stories about antiques. Think of an old item in your home. What story would you make up about it?

12. Most of us have an old object we’ve kept from generations past. Maybe a Bible or an old wall hanging. Perhaps a teacup. What is something you’ve kept from your parents or grandparents? Share the significance of that item.

13. Along the way, Vanessa tries to tell Sadie about Ben, but the timing is never right. Have you—or has someone you know—found a second chance at love? How did the pieces come together for the family?

14. Vanessa is drawn to Ben’s kindness and humor. When they are pulled to the front of a coffee shop to sing an impromptu Christmas carol, Ben is all in. How do you find fun and spontaneity at Christmastime?

15. Sadie loves the tradition of watching a Christmas movie with her mom. What is one of your favorite Christmas movies and why?

16. Another tradition mother and daughter share is the making of Christmas cookies. Share three traditions you keep at Christmas or during the holiday season. How long have they been in the family, and why are they important to you?

17. When Ben learns that the ring his father is about to sell is actually Vanessa’s missing Christmas ring, he immediately leaves town to stop the sale. How would you have handled that moment? And when did you have to take drastic measures to make a situation right?

18. When Ben abruptly leaves town before his and Vanessa’s date is officially over, she forgives him. She does this because she cares about him. Forgiveness is the fabric that brings about a beautiful Christmas for us all. Is there someone in your life whom you could forgive this Christmas? How might you do that?

19. Once Howard understands that the ring is indeed Vanessa’s special heirloom, he stops the sale. He explains that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” These are the words of Jesus from Matthew 6:21. What does this Bible verse mean to you?

20. One of the most poignant scenes in the book is when Sadie meets Ben for the first time. They both handle the moment with grace. Tell about someone who joined your family and how that person was loved by you and others. Why is love so important always, but especially at Christmastime?

21. How did you like the ending of The Christmas Ring? Would you like to be part of the crowd celebrating at the dance that night? Does this remind you of your story? Explain.

22. What does Christmas mean to you?