Spirituality and religious experience Books

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Book SynopsisAn obscure little religious teacher operating in a back of beyond place called the Galilee. Preacher, healer, leader, life transformer, befriender, largely unknown and unnoticed in his own time. And yet today Millions, all over the world Follow him, love him, are inspired by him And experience him. Meet Jesus The most significant, mysterious and attractive person who has ever lived. Here are 100 greatest hit stories from the Gospels. All explained with a contemporary voice.

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Book SynopsisThe second largest branch of Islam, with between 130 and 190 million adherents across the globe, Shi'i Islam is becoming an increasingly significant force in contemporary politics, especially in the Middle East. This makes an informed understanding of its fundamental spiritual beliefs and practices both necessary and timely. Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi is one of the most distinguished scholars of Shi'i history and theology, and in this volume he offers a wide-ranging and engaging survey of the core texts of Shi'i Islam. Examining in turn the origins and later developments of Shi'i spirituality, the author reveals the profoundly esoteric nature of the beliefs which accrued to the figures of the early Imams, and which became associated with their interaction between the material and spiritual worlds. Many of these beliefs have remained much misunderstood even within the wider Muslim world. Furthermore, Western scholarship has tended to follow the lead of the earlier orientalists and critics, viewing Shi'i teachings as marginal. In this study the author shows, by contrast, how central and creative the very nature of spirituality was to the development of Shi'i Islam, as well as to classical Muslim civilisation as a whole. In this comprehensive treatment, the esoteric nature of Shi'i spirituality emerges as an essential phenomenon for understanding Shi'i Islam.

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Book SynopsisThe celebrated spiritual writer Thomas Merton remains one of the most influential voices of our day. His many books have become modern spiritual classics and he opened up the riches of the monastic tradition for many. Here, Esther de Waal devises a seven day personal or group retreat programme using extracts from Thomas Merton's writings and a selection of the photography for which he was also renowned. She creates a retreat that can be made at home, at a centre or on holiday, over a week or a period of weeks. The focus of each of the seven days is: The Call, Response, The Solitary Within, Encounter With Christ, The Demands of Love, Ordinary Things, and Integration.Trade Review'Esther de Waal takes Thomas Merton's spiritual teaching as her main theme and interweaves constant references to Merton and his life with familiar Merton quotations. She also provides her own helpful thoughts and reflections and includes a number of quotations from the Psalms. The end result is a carefully-prepared retreat in the company of Thomas Merton ... This book makes me want once again to follow Merton's guidance and teaching.' -- Sister Avis Mary SLG * Fairarces Chronicles *"De Waal writes out of a reservoir of wisdom accumulated from a lifetime of searching and practicing revered spiritual traditions...A Retreat with Thomas Merton is a classic." -- Willard E. Roth * Sharing the Practice *

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Book SynopsisJohn Main understood that the remedy for the malaise that affects individuals and nations alike was the love of Christ. He taught that when we build our lives on the rock-like foundation of this love, we become rooted in the ultimate reality, and the winds and storms of life, and even death itself, no longer have power over us. In the short chapters of this book, he shows how we can find the way to this foundation and root ourselves in the eternal love that nothing can destroy. The way is simplicity itself, but it is also a way of dispossession. Daily meditation brings us to the place where our lives become wholly immersed in the Spirit of God, but it requires that we come empty handed and prepared to walk the way of unknowing.

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Book SynopsisWith characteristic gentleness and wisdom, Ann Lewin leads us on an exploration of the seasons of Advent and Christmas which are rich in imagery and themes to shape our faith. Advent speaks of our dual identity as people of this world and as God’s people. Come Emmanuel explores how we can hold this in creative tension and learn to relate our prayerfulness to everyday life. Ann opens up the depths of some very ancient prayers – the Advent antiphons - and discovers how much they can teach us for living as God’s people today. Commercially, Christmas may be over and done with on 25th, yet for Christians it is a profound beginning that leads paradoxically into death and suffering as on the days immediately following, the Church commemorates Stephen, the first martyr, and the Massacre of the Innocents. The baby in the manger will bring healing and forgiveness, but only via the road to the cross.

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Book SynopsisIn an overwhelming world, how can our lives be shaped to their greatest potential? David F. Ford describes the ‘overwhelmings’ we face in the whirl of life today – the endless images and information that inundate us and pervade our lives. Examining the people and forces that influence us, the rhythm of work and leisure, and the intense experiences, both good and bad, that make up reality, Ford serves up practical wisdom for coping creatively with challenge and change. Above all, Ford helps us to discover a dynamic pattern that can respond to the ‘overwhelmings’ and shape our desires, relationships, responsibilities and celebrations. Here is a vision of genuine Christian life that can face both the living God and the best and worst of today’s world.Trade Review‘The Shape of Living is an essential companion for us as we struggle to be most fully ourselves in God’s chaotic but enthralling world.’ -- Susan Howatch

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Book Synopsis‘To take time to be apart… is not a luxury, it is essential. The gift of space for myself seems so simply, and in a way it is; but it is also surprisingly difficult to do without some form of external encouragement. And that is the very simple purpose of this book.’ With these words, Esther de Waal begins to show us ways into a fuller and deeper sense of attentiveness to the world around us and to the presence of God in the world. Combining monastic, Celtic and desert traditions, she offers a practical guide to finding God through the everyday circumstances of life. Seemingly small, insignificant things then become windows through which the light of Christ can shine. Many aspects of modern life can distract us: busyness, boredom, stress, lethargy, lack of direction. Yet Christ’s invitation to each of us is ‘Come and see’. Responding to this call, Lost in Wonder clears and refreshes our inner vision, teaching us again how to use those gifts we may have come to take for granted or forgotten we had: sight, sound, silence, awareness, mystery, wonder.

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Book SynopsisThis collection of poems by Wales’ most famous poet-priest, R S Thomas, is interspersed with short reflections and questions for exploration that connect the timeless poetry to the landscape that inspired it. Originally produced locally for visitors to the North Wales village and church where R S Thomas was the parish priest, its appeal extends to all who know and love the raw honesty and sparse, striking style of the poetry, and whose own faith and questions are mirrored in it. Aberdaron still welcomes streams of visitors, R S Thomas aficionados and pilgrims en route to the nearby holy island of Bardsey. This book brings the poetry alive in a fresh way and provides a pilgrim guide to the locality, along with reflections that enable armchair readers everywhere to enter more deeply into the world of the poems. All royalties will continue to go to maintaining the church at Aberdaron.Trade Review"With a double page spread for each poem, Jim Cotter's unusual layout gives a sense of space and slow contemplation of each poem and its meaning...Etched By Silence is a pleasure to use for quiet meditation and personal musing." * Magnet *'If you love poetry and can see within its words a way to consider a deeper spirituality, then this book is no doubt for you.' -- Melanie Carroll * Together *

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Book SynopsisOffering ways of addressing the intellectual and practical problems confronting today's religions, this study discusses the way forward for those who believe in the importance of religious faith in a multi-religious world. It also examines issues such as the limitations of human thought and language, and the role of world views which form the context within which different religions are borne. The author's other books include "Companion to the Qur'an" and "The Faith and Practice of Al-Ghazali".

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Book SynopsisIn part an exploration of spirituality, in part an anthology, this searching and profound book challenges us to respond to the call of solitude and complete abandonment to God, symbolised by the great emptiness and silence of desert places.

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Book SynopsisDiscover your spiritual gift in the company of Columba, Brigid, Cuthbert, Patrick and other Celtic saints in this ground-breaking and original book. As the rediscovery of Celtic spirituality has transformed Christian experience in recent years, Celtic Gifts explores the dramatic impact that a Celtic understanding of vocation and ministry could have in the life and work of the Church today, especially where small congregations, limited resources and overburdened clergy create particular difficulties. Offering a positive, imaginative and biblical solution to problems that are all too common today, Celtic Gifts will encourage every Christian to explore their own vocation and calling.

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Book SynopsisCarmelite spirituality is a way of life that spells Freedom. Rooted in the experience of the desert mothers and fathers who sought God in solitude, it can accommodate many temperaments and approaches. The primary focus is on Finding the way of prayer that will bring you closest to God. This warm and engaging book introduces six great Carmelite Figures and their individual ways of prayer. Let Teresa of Avila, St John of the Cross, Brother Lawrence, Therese of Lisieux and others help you discover the pathway to authentic spiritual growth.

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Book SynopsisPrayer Mountain is a practical handbook to the mountain ranges of the spiritual life. It takes us on a climbing tour of ten Biblical mountains and, with the companionship of those who have climbed them before, encourages us in our own ascent towards the presence of God.

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Book SynopsisWhat we call holy in the world - a person, a place, a set of words or pictures - is so because the completely foreign is brough together with the familiar and the everyday. No one embodies this more than Mary, who literally makes a home for the Creator of all things in her own body and in her own house - the strangest reality we can conceive. Here, Rowan Williams invites us to explores and reflect on the depths of meaning in three classic icons of the Virgin and her child from the Eastern Christian tradition. Icons have been described as "theology in lien and colour" and, in tracing the movement within these icons, Williams discovers the pattern of love that they reveal, a love that invites and embraces us so that we no longer remain as spectators, but find ourselves caught up in the drama that unfolds itself before us.

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Book SynopsisMany people today are looking to the ancient discipline of following a rule of life to strengthen their sense of living in Christ. In 49 short chapters this wise and gentle rule from the Society of St John the Evangelist provides practical guidance.

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Book SynopsisThe figure of Hildegard of Bingen towers both over her own and our present age. Her ideas about healing, the arts, the relationship between science and theology, the interdependence of male and female and the interconnectedness of all living beings with each other and their Creator have extraordinary relevance to our contemporary understanding of these issues. Yet for all Hildegard's astonishing creativity and originality, her spirituality is firmly rooted in the Rule of St Benedict and its emphasis on daily prayer and meditative reading of the Scriptures. This introduction to her life and thought includes many practical spiritual exercises that will enable us to bring Hildegard's wisdom and vision of wholeness to our busy, fragmented lives today.

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive manual is aimed especially at oblates and associates of Benedictine communities, those who regularly spend retreats or quiet days in Benedictine centres and all those who want to order their life to be more in tune with Benedictine spirituality. The book contains: the text of the Rule of St Benedict; an introduction to the essentials of Benedictine spirituality; a simple daily office and other Benedictine prayers; a "who's who" introducing us to 100 Benedictine saints and followers; a guide to living the Rule in the world and community and a tour of the Benedictine family worldwide. Many notable authors have contributed to this volume which is designed to last a lifetime. They include Esther de Waal, Columba Stewart, Kathleen Norris and Patrick Barry.

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Book SynopsisFor many Christians, the world equates with "worldliness" and it is to be avoided for fear of damage to their spiritual health. Celtic Christianity differs from this in that it sees in all creation the reflection of God's goodness and beauty which sin might mar, but can never destroy. This book explores the Celtic view of creation and each chapter focuses on an aspect of God revealed in creation to transform our view of created matter.

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Book SynopsisThe world, the Church and our personal lives are full of conflict - opposing demands pull us in all directions. This book presents the wisdom of Benedict, which shows how ambiguity and uncertainty can be transformative and healing.Trade Review'If you don't have this book, get it - it is full of wisdom and depth.' Nirvard Kinsella, Prior of Rosecrea Abbey, in Hallel magazine -- Nirvard Kinsella * Hallel Magazine *

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Book SynopsisRowan Williams applies his knowledge and imagination in reflecting on four classic Eastern Orthodox icons of Christ: the Transfiguration, the Resurrection, the Hospitality of Abraham (an icon which depicts the Trinity) and the Pantocrator, or Christ in glory. Icons have been called "theology in line and colour" and in these images we find eternal truths and life-changing challenges. Icons have become increasingly popular as aids to devotion, but with an expert guide such as Rowan Williams, their many layers of meaning emerge more clearly.Trade Review'The language of this short book is simple but packed with possibilities. It is devotional theology at its best and cannot be too highly recommended.' -- Paul Bregazzi * The Reader *'A beautifully presented, slim, hardback volume illustrated with the full icon at the beginning of each section (...) I found this little book quite delightful and learnt quite a lot. (...) A lovely book for anyone wanting to explore icons,it would also make a most acceptable gift." * The Lance *'This beautifully produced and illustrated little hardback is a sequel of "Ponder These Things", the volume Archbishop Rowan wrote on praying with icons of the Virgins. (...)There is an increasing number of us in the western Church who love and use, and, maybe, paint icons, but who do not hold to the full Orthodox understanding of them (...).But many of the books and articles I have read on praying with or meditating on icons seem to wander off into even more obscure realms of unconnected thoughts and tenuous links with the subject icon, so they become unhelpful or even distracting. Not so with Archbishop Rowan's book which is like a deep clear spring of mountain water. It is full of profound insights and always relevant (but by no means obvious) ideas to inform and deepen prayer before icons of Our Lord. And as the Archbishop writes in his introduction "We don't depict just a slice of history when we depict Jesus; we show a life radiating the light and force of God.' -- John Hughes'Archbishop Williams has brought out a companion to his fine book of meditations on icons of the Theotokos. (...) After treating in a fairly basic way the history of the style in question (or, in Rublev's case, the icon itself), Williams goes on to focus especially on how the icons invite us to consider some aspect of Christ's transforming work for us. (...) in contrast with the earlier companion to this book, Williams rather restricts himself to making some extremely fundamental comments. Indeed, now that both are available, this reviewer would recommend that anyone interested in having them both might do well to begin with the book on icons of Christ and them take up the book on icons of the Blessed Virgin.' -- Augustine Casiday * SOBORNOST *'This is another beautiful little book following the Archbishop's Ponder These Things: Praying with icons of the Virgin, this time looking at four icons of Christ from the Eastern Orthodox Church. (...) William's depth and clarity is well-matched by the luminous depths of these icons, and he leads us into new insights into the meaning of Christ that will deeply enrich the Church.' * The Sign *This is a beautifully written book (...) and Dr. Williams gives us many memorable phrases as well as many thoughtful and challenging insights. (...) It is also beautifully illustrated, with full page coloured depictions of each icon, and details throughout each chapter. We are indebted to the Canterbury Press for giving us these encouraging and enlarging books, which are really better termed works of art; and as always to Rowan Williams, for taking divine and holy things and, in his unique way, enabling us to embed them into our ordinary human lives.' -- John Harvey * CORACLE *

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Book SynopsisMany people know of the Carmina Gadelica, the collection of Gaelic songs, prayers and blessings from the Hebrides, yet few have access to its five volumes published in Scotland between 1900 and 1952. Here, an attractive selection is made for the contemporary reader and freshly translated to reflect the particular Christian experience of the people who composed them: Celtic Christians in the 7th to 9th centuries who worshipped the Trinitarian God, had a devotion to the Virgin Mary, the Archangels and the Saints, and a love of the Bible, especially the Psalms. Some 130 poems and prayers are included, arranged in eleven sections including The Power of Heaven, Home and Family and Soul Journey. An extended introduction opens up the world that produced these extraordinary and beautiful prayers and blessings.Trade Review'This book is well worth reading for its poetic approach, as well as for its depth of prayer and intellect.' * Church Times *'As a collection of prayers, it is certainly to be commended.' * New Directions *

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Book SynopsisAuthor and former warden of Iona Abbey, Peter Millar reflects on where the sacred may be found in the modern world. This book shows how to recognise and celebrate the authentic presence and work of the Holy Spirit.Trade ReviewTrevor Beeson's splendid volume contains twenty-two short descriptions of the lives and contributions of memorable deans from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. In addition to these richly drawn portraits, one should not overlook the two introductory chapters which both provide fascinaitng insights into cathedral life, as well as tracing significant changes in cathedral structure from the tenth century onwards. One could not wish for a better overview than that provided by Beeson. (...) This book would be an ideal present for any member of the clergy (...), but make sure you read it yourself before handing it on! Paul Foster, New College, University of Edinburgh, The Expository Times

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Book SynopsisIs your spiritual journey more like a trudge? Does the Church hinder more than it helps? Here is a warm, welcoming and realistic guide from an immensely popular author for all who may be feeling spiritually jaded. Whatever our circumstances, Companions of Christ shows us how to embark on a journey of the heart, starting wherever we happen to be and however fit or unfit for the journey we may feel. With the help of practical spiritual exercises throughout, Margaret Silf shows us how to keep faith despite the odds. This can be a major breakthrough for beginners and seasoned Christians alike, it includes practical teaching on great Ignatian themes: imaginative scriptural meditation, spiritual discernment, detachment and practical praying.Trade Review'Like Margaret Silf's other books, this is a warm, welcoming guide full of imaginative stories to be worked on slowly. The design and layout of the text encourages the reader to ponder and reflect upon questions and suggestions which are in boxed paragraphs to hold the attention. Helpful sections on prayer, listening and letting go are all part of the practical guidance on the journey of discovery to become ever more fully human while drawing closer to God. This is an excellent introduction to the main themes of Ignatian spirituality presented in an accessible manner.' -- Yvonne Walker * The Julian Meetings *'A Trinitarian with a strong belief in the power of the Holy Spirit, Margaret Silf resists anything that puts God in a box.(...) The book is about how to keep faith, despite the odds - and even despite the Church.' -- Pat Ashworth * Church Times *

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Book SynopsisA striking book of contemporary spirituality based on the medieval writings of a woman ahead of her time, Julian of Norwich. An anchorite who lived in a monastic cell attached to a parish church, she found inspiration in the simple domestic detail of her life and used it as a springboard to prayer and contemplation. Penny Roker's warm and gentle book enables readers to make an 'armchair retreat' using nothing more than things around the house to access and apply the spiritual riches of Julian. Not everyone can get away on an organised retreat, but this is a complete resource for making a retreat alone at home. It is equally appropriate for guided group meditation, of course. Each day includes a scripture reading, an excerpt from Julian's Showing of Love, a meditation to read, a practical spiritual exercise, questions to reflect upon, closing prayers, further scriptures, and reading ideas.Trade Review'She writes with a simplicity, clarity and conviction that spoke to me (...).' -- John Turnbull * New Directions *'The purpose of Homely Love is to make the spiritual riches of Julian of Norwich accessible and relevant to a wide range of people today, and Penny Roker does this beautifully. It is also a retreat guide with a difference, aimed particularly at those who cannot afford the money or the time to take part in an organised retreat and who, as the author says, have to 'make do'. Homely Love is a beautiful, earthy, wise handbook to prayer and one which, i believe, Julian Norwich would truly describe as 'homely'.' -- Jennifer Holden

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Book SynopsisMuch of today's fascination with and attraction to the Rule of St. Benedict can be attributed to John Main, a Benedictine monk, who first saw that this rule of life for monastic communities could be relevant for Christian living in the secular world. He founded a community of lay people who shared his vision and from this small beginning has grown. The World Community for Christian Meditation which today is active in numerous countries around the world and has thousands of members and associates. Its work, and its emphasis on meditation, derives directly from the Benedictine focus on prayer and lectio divina or holy reading. Right up to the end of his life in 1982, John Main wrote a series of remarkable letters of spiritual direction to WCCM's growing family. Two collections have previously been published and are now out of print and the complete letters are now published in this single volume. Together they constitute a volume of remarkable spiritual wisdom and insight, as fresh and relevant for today as when they were first written.

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Book SynopsisThe Jesus Prayer Rosary will be welcomed by the growing number of people who are discovering that praying with beads can be a spiritually enriching and therapeutic experience. It will further enrich the spirituality of the many Christians who have found meditative repetition of the ancient Jesus Prayer to be a valuable devotional aid. This unique book brings together these two popular approaches to prayer and worship. It offers a Jesus-centred way of praying with beads. Ideal for complete beginners, it includes basic instruction on how to pray the rosary, using the Jesus Prayer. It comprises four sets of meditations which focus on the infancy narratives in Matthew and Luke, scenes from the ministry of Jesus, his passion and death. These include readings from the various Gospel writers. Finally, we are given insight into our experience of him as the Risen One who gradually transforms our lives. Each meditation concludes with a prayer mostly taken from the liturgy, and biblical canticles are provided as centrepiece prayers. A complete resource for praying privately or in groups, this will open up the riches of Eastern and Catholic spirituality for all.

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Book SynopsisThe Benedictine monk and writer, Laurence Freeman, took over the mantle of John Main after his death in 1982 and continues the work that he began, teaching Christians from all traditions the simplest way of prayer - meditation. It is simple in that it requires no words, yet encountering God without the safety barrier of our own thoughts and ideas is to open ourselves to total transformation. This collection of talks on Christian meditation is full of practical advice and great spiritual insights in equal measure. It shows how discovering the presence of Christ within through meditative prayer can give shape and purpose to everything we do and are: our actions, emotions, fears, longings, failings and dreams. As John Main taught, the point of this kind of prayer is to allow God's presence to become not just a reality, but the reality of our lives.

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Book SynopsisPete Rollins is inspired by the fact that all language fails when it comes to describing God. This, he says, is what nourishes poets and pilgrims alike as they try to capture, enact and incarnate truth. Such truth can only be lived - it cannot be reduced to mere words. From this starting point, he revisits the parables of Jesus - odd and unexpected stories that set hearers and readers spinning off course from what is safe and familiar towards some completely new kind of understanding. Parables are subversive; they never attempt to make faith simplistic. A parable does not primarily provide information about our world. Rather, if we allow it to do its work within us, it will change our world-breaking it - and us - open to wholly new possibilities. In the spirit of Jesus' parables, Peter offers some transformative stories of his own.

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Book SynopsisMany people today have a deep spiritual thirst and hunger that in many ways is as urgent as the material needs of developing nations. Unless affluent societies escape the addiction to materialism, they will be unable to feel the depth of compassion from which works of mercy and justice spring. Laurence Freeman teaches a way to spiritual health that is both ancient and new. The desert fathers practiced silent prayer and the church in our own day has rediscovered its liberating power. To sit down before God in silence does more than empty our minds of our own concerns. It opens us to the mystery of life, to seeing thing from God's perspective rather than our own limited viewpoint, to the power of faith that heals and raises us to love God and our neighbour.

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