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As Easter symbolizes renewal and hope for many within the Christian community, acclaimed children’s author Anthony DeStefano emphasizes that the battle for family values remains far from over. He warns that new strategies have emerged in the ongoing culture war, particularly targeting the impressionable minds of children.
DeStefano, a bestselling author recognized for his Christian-themed literature, has authored numerous books designed to engage both children and adults. His latest offering, From Bread and Wine to Saints Divine, introduces young readers to the significance of the Eucharist, a cornerstone of Catholic and Orthodox communion, in a way that feels both approachable and relatable.
Confronting Ideological Battles
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, DeStefano articulated the pressing need to shield children from ideological influences that can distort their perceptions. He pointed out, “If the electorate rejects wokeism, what other options does the left have? What’s their most effective strategy? It’s to go after the kids.” This assertion reflects his deep concern about the potential erosion of moral values among youth.
DeStefano continued, stating, “American voters have made a clear stance against the physical alterations of children’s bodies through puberty blockers, sex hormones, and irreversible gender transition surgeries. However, it’s crucial to also recognize that the woke left is equally relentless in attempting to reshape the minds and spirits of our children through ideological propaganda. This notion is harsh, yet undeniably true. Wokeness transcends physical mutilation; it’s about altering the very essence of a child’s soul.”
A Journey of Discovery
Having his works published in 18 countries and translated into 12 languages, DeStefano’s journey to becoming a prominent children’s author wasn’t always straightforward. Hailing from New York, he initially aimed for a career in medicine, inspired by his aspiration to become a surgeon. Yet during his days at Manhattan’s renowned Stuyvesant High School, he encountered an English teacher who would redefine his trajectory.
That teacher, Frank McCourt, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Angela’s Ashes, influenced DeStefano profoundly. He recounted, “He assigned us to write children’s books. He challenged us to abandon convoluted writing styles typical of teenagers.”
Despite initially pursuing medicine, academic hurdles, particularly in organic chemistry and integral calculus, diverted his path. In his twenties, a spiritual awakening propelled DeStefano back toward writing, fueled by the works of C.S. Lewis and G.K. Chesterton.
Reflecting on this pivotal shift, he expressed, “I realized I could merge my passions for writing and healing. Perhaps what God intended for me was to heal others, not through surgery but through words.” This realization became the foundation of his writing career.
Shaping the Future
DeStefano stated clearly that he recognizes children as the frontline in the cultural war. He aims to nurture traditional values through engaging narratives tailored for the youth who are naturally curious and impressionable. He asserted, “If I can write books that instill these values, then I am contributing meaningfully to countering the pervasive secularism that surrounds our children from various media platforms.”
In 2018, DeStefano explored a different literary avenue with his book Inside the Atheist Mind: Unmasking the Religion of Those Who Say There Is No God. This foray elicited backlash, leading to critical reviews online. For him, the experience was invigorating, conveying, “If you receive criticism from the secular culture, it indicates you are fulfilling your purpose.”
Restoring Truth in a Changing World
Among his objectives, DeStefano aspires to restore the objective truth of family values and faith into the current societal framework. He argues against the growing prevalence of moral relativism, suggesting that such ideologies undermine the foundational values he seeks to promote.
As Easter approaches, he poignantly reflected, “The resurrection signifies our ultimate hope. It’s the undeniable proof that light can triumph over darkness. The same force that rolled away the stone on that Easter morning empowers us today, enabling us to resist the falsehoods presented to us daily.”
This message resonates strongly, particularly now, as parents and educators strive to provide children with clarity in a time of ideological uncertainty.
Continuing the Fight
As DeStefano continues to write and advocate for familial and spiritual values, his message underscores the critical role of nurturing resilience and faith within the next generation. Amidst the clamor of an increasingly polarized society, his faith-based stories serve as both a source of inspiration and a reminder of the timeless values that can guide young hearts and minds.
With each new release, he aims not just to entertain but to equip children with the moral framework necessary to navigate today’s complex cultural landscape, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for family values in a rapidly changing world.
