Edith Schaeffer (1914-2013) was an American author, theologian, and Christian missionary. She is best known for her writings on marriage, family, and the arts, as well as her role in the establishment of L'Abri Fellowship, an international Christian community.
Born in Wenchow, China, Edith Schaeffer grew up in a multicultural and missionary family. She later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and a minor in music, becoming deeply influenced by her Christian faith and her passion for artistic expression.
Schaeffer's literary contributions include several books on the topics of spiritual growth, homeschooling, creativity, and the intersection of faith and art. Her most notable work, "The Hidden Art of Homemaking," encourages individuals to view everyday tasks as opportunities for creative expression, bringing beauty and meaning into the home.
In 1955, along with her husband Francis Schaeffer, Edith co-founded L'Abri Fellowship, a spiritual retreat and study center located in Switzerland. This community aimed to provide a safe space for intellectual and spiritual exploration, offering guidance and support to individuals seeking answers to life's fundamental questions. Edith played a pivotal role in fostering an environment of warmth, hospitality, and intellectual rigor within L'Abri.
Through her writings and work at L'Abri, Edith Schaeffer emphasized the importance of living a life of purpose, creativity, and faithfulness to God. Her influence bridged the gap between Christian spirituality and the pursuit of knowledge and artistic expression, while also highlighting the sacredness and beauty of everyday life.
