The Children's Tabernacle; Or, Hand-Work and Heart-Work

A children's religious educational work written in the late 19th century. The book aims to engage young readers with significant biblical themes, specifically focusing on the construction of the Tabernacle in the Old Testament and its spiritual implications. Through the characters of the Temple family, especially siblings Lucius and Agnes, the text seeks to weave together lessons of faith, moral character, and the importance of meaningful work in the lives of children. At the start of the story, we are introduced to the Temple family, who are all dealing with the whooping cough, which has left them cooped up at home. The narrative begins with a quarrel between Lucius and Agnes over a damaged desk, which serves as an opening to a discussion on idleness leading to mischief. The children's mother, Mrs. Temple, proposes the idea of creating a model of the Tabernacle, encouraging cooperative work among her children as a way to occupy their time and channel their energies positively. With much enthusiasm, Lucius and his sisters begin to discuss the construction of the model, leading to deeper conversations about faith, religious duties, and the significance of the Tabernacle itself. This opening sets the tone for a blend of practical learning and moral instruction that aims to guide young readers towards understanding their faith through hands-on activities and familial interaction.