Spirituality and religious experience Books

Book SynopsisAn updated edition of a landmark book in the history of women's political activism and in the history of women and religion in America.Trade Review"It would be hard to imagine a book that more insightfully combined gender, social, and religious history together more perfectly than Radical Spirits. Braude still speaks powerfully to unique issues of women's creativity - spiritual as well as political - in a superb account of the controversial nineteenth-century Spiritualist movement. Braude's vivid prose and analytical clarity make an inherently fascinating story all the more compelling - a 'must read' for nineteenth-century U.S. historians whose recent scholarship only highlights the unique, blazing daring of Radical Spirits." Jon Butler, Yale University "Radical Spirits is a vitally important book. It is an original interpretation of Spiritualism that does far more than recount the narrow history of a single movement. In effect, the work recasts the history of women's rights in such a way as to show the dynamic impact of religion upon American culture, as it enabled women to become aware of their own voices in a culture that still sought to silence them... The book has ... influenced a generation of young scholars emerging into the profession ... no less than more senior social historians and scholars of religion." --Marie Griffith, Associate Director of the Center for the Study of Religion, Princeton University " ... [Radical Spirits] is a wonderful teaching book: it raises crucial questions about gender and race in relation to American religious creativity and asks students to think in new ways about religion and about women's history. My experience has been that students love reading and discussing it." --Robert Orsi, author of Thank You, St. Jude "Braude has discovered a crucial link between the early feminists and the spiritualists who so captured the American imagination during the middle of the [nineteenth] century." --Los Angeles Times "An insightful book and a delightful read." --Journal of American History "Continually rewarding." --New York Times Book ReviewTable of ContentsPreliminary Table of Contents:List of IllustrationsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction1. "Unbroken Communication between the Infinite and All Beings"2. "The Blessedness of Sinless Childhood in the World Beyond"3. "Thine for Agitation"4. The Meaning of Mediumship5. "The Body and Soul Destroying Marriage Institution"6. Mediums versus Medical men7. "No Organization Can Hold Me"ConclusionAbbreviationsNotesReferencesIndex

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Book SynopsisThe title of Lash''s book, inspired by a combination of George Herbert and Gerard Manley Hopkins, symbolizes his answer to the problem with which he is concerned, that of religious experience. ''I propose,'' he says, ''to argue, on the one hand, that it is not the case that all experience of God is necessarily religious in form or content and, on the other hand, that not everything which it would be appropriate to characterize as religious experience would thereby necessarily constitute experience of God.''To sustain his argument he begins by building up an account of the relationship between the principal elements of human experience which contrasts quite fundamentally with that proposed and presupposed in William James''s classic, The Varieties of Religious Experience, drawing on writers as different as Schleiermacher and Buber, Rahner and Newman. ''However,'' he goes on, ''this is not a book about James or Newman, Rahner or Schleiermacher. It is the issues, or the aTrade Review"A classical, contemporary example of the theological mind at its clearest is Nicholas Lash’s Easter in Ordinary. This complex, distilled, but deeply affecting study of William James, Newman, von Hügel, and Buber, among others, is the choice product of the believing theologian’s art. Tradition rebottled with an awareness of postmodern needs but not necessarily with the mass-market tastes in mind. Demanding, uncommon, quenching." —Commonweal“Relying on John Henry Newman, Friedrich von Hügel, Martin Buber and, more briefly, Hegel, Kant, Schleiermacher, J. F. Fries, and Karl Rahner, and writing from a Christian perspective—Lash argues that mysticism should not be reduced to ‘feelings’ and that the experience of God is not something other than the general experiences had in ordinary life. While accessible to lay readers, this book would be appreciated by professional philosophers and theologians.” —Library Journal

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Book SynopsisThe Heresy of the Free Spirit in the Later Middle Ages has been widely recognized as the standard work on the subject in any language. Robert E. Lerner examines this fourteenth-century European heresy as it appeared in its own age. He concludes that the Free-Spirit movement was not a tightly organized sect of anarchistic deviants, but rather a spectrum of belief that emphasized voluntary poverty and quietist mysticism.Trade Review"The clarity, honesty, and directness of the author's style is admirable. From the book emerges the most enlightening and credible picture we as yet have of the 'free spirits' of the late Middle Ages." —Review for Religious"This is a most important book, both for the completeness of its survey of the available primary sources and for the innovative and persuasive interpretations Robert Lerner brings to his work." —Speculum". . . this is a good book, witty, lucid, and convincing." —History

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Book SynopsisSin, like death, is an unassailable fact of life. It is also one of the last great taboos for public debate. In this compelling book, the Henry Fairlie shows that it is possible and necessary to talk about sin in ways that enrich our societies and our personal lives. Fairlie relates these ancient sins to the central issues of contemporary life: liberal vs. conservative politics, discrimination, pornography, abortion, the vistas of modern science, and especially the pop-psychologies that confirm the narcissism of our age.Trade Review"Depressingly accurate about many of our malaises. . . . [Fairlie] fits the ancient sin to the contemporary condition." —The New York Times Book Review"A biting critique of the hocum, the sleazy, self-deluding arrogance of much pop culture." —The Christian Century". . . a thoughtful and brave analysis, argued with subtlety and insight." —Library Journal". . . remarkably absorbing." —The Atlantic Monthly

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"[Dunne] calls on us to ponder the depths of our lives where our souls cry out to us for recognition and where we wrestle with God for the precious grace of meaning. Dunne is a masterful guide to the inner life, which is the heart of all life-and death." —The Christian Century

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Book SynopsisThis collection analyses Gerald McCool's ""From Unity to Pluralism: The Internal Evolution of Thomism"", which stands opposed to the motivating ideals found in ""One Hundred Years of Thomism: Aeterni Patris and Afterwards"", a symposium published in 1981.Table of ContentsMaritain and Gilson on the Question of a Living Thomism, Victor B. Brezik; Neo-Thomism and Christian Philosophy, Joseph Owens; Thomistic Philosophy Is Not Pluralistic, Vernon J. Bourke; The Unity of Thomistic Experience - A Gilsonian Rejoinder to Gerald McCool, Peter A. Redpath; Gilson and Aeterni Patris, Armand A. Maurer; Maritain's Realistic Defence of the Importance of the Philosophy of Nature to Metaphysics, Raymond Dennehy; Apropos of ""From Unity to Pluralism"" by Gerald McCool, Marc F. Griesbach, Robert J. Henle; Truth, Realism and Philosophical Pluralism, Marc F. Griesbach; Must Thomism Become Kantian to Survive? A Negative Response, Leo Sweeney; Philosophical Pluralism and the Internal Evolution of Thomism - Some Realist Animadversions, Dennis J.M. Bradley; Transcendental Thomism and ""De Veritate 1, 9"", John F.X. Knasos; Thomistic Personalism and Today's Families, Mary Rousseau.

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Book SynopsisSpirituality seems to be a basic human good essential for human flourishing. This work raises questions about spirituality in the workplace. What are the moral questions that should guide leaders? Is spirituality being treated as simply an instrumental good?Trade Review“… highly enlightening, fascinating, interesting, intriguing and challenging. After reading it, one certainly feels that one has been enriched by these thought provoking texts.” —PRAXIS: Journal for Christian Business Leadership“… this is a timely and interesting book. Anyone who believes that spirituality can and should have an important place in business will find valuable arguments in support of his view as well as critiques and reasons to look for solid foundations for it. [T]he book will be helpful to any reader who is looking … for … stimulating ideas on the subject.” —Markets and Morality“...a collection of thoughtful and thought-provoking essays by diverse learned authors concerning the meeting point between commercial workplace responsibility and personal spiritual values.” —Midwest Book Review“Recommended. General readers, undergraduates, and professionals.” —Choice

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Book SynopsisSpirituality seems to be a basic human good essential for human flourishing. This work raises questions about spirituality in the workplace. What are the moral questions that should guide leaders? Is spirituality being treated as simply an instrumental good?Trade Review“… highly enlightening, fascinating, interesting, intriguing and challenging. After reading it, one certainly feels that one has been enriched by these thought provoking texts.” —PRAXIS: Journal for Christian Business Leadership“… this is a timely and interesting book. Anyone who believes that spirituality can and should have an important place in business will find valuable arguments in support of his view as well as critiques and reasons to look for solid foundations for it. [T]he book will be helpful to any reader who is looking … for … stimulating ideas on the subject.” —Markets and Morality“...a collection of thoughtful and thought-provoking essays by diverse learned authors concerning the meeting point between commercial workplace responsibility and personal spiritual values.” —Midwest Book Review“Recommended. General readers, undergraduates, and professionals.” —Choice

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Book SynopsisIn Simone Weil Robert Chenavier explores the work of Simone Weil and demonstrates how she brought together spiritual life and the human struggle for solidarity.Trade Review“Robert Chenavier gives us in fewer than one hundred pages a wonderful chronological introduction to Weil’s thought. . . . The book will inspire more writing on Weil’s thought . . . [and] help in the preservation of the important contributions to twentieth century philosophy. This book is highly recommended for all academic libraries.” —Catholic Library World“For those somewhat acquainted with Weil’s work or in possession of an introduction . . . Chenavier’s book could be very valuable in representing Weil’s intellectual and spiritual project as organized and focused. It succeeds in structuring her work around two big ideas: work and the spiritual.” —Theology“Having been given a central thread to trace through Weil, one is better equipped to apply her insights to other scholarly work. Simone Weil: Attention to the Real is not an introduction as much as it is a platform from which one can independently dig deeper into Weil’s life and thought. Along with philosophers, environmentalists, ethicists and political thinkers may find this book a valuable addition to their Weil collection.” —Journal for Peace and Justice Studies"Bernard Doering's translation of Robert Chenavier's Simone Weil: Attention to the Real makes this unusually concise and authoritative introduction to the thought of Simone Weil available in English . . . this brief essay, which is the fruit of a rigorous and sustained engagement with Weil's work, provides a dense and coherent introduction to Weil's philosophy, and manages to unify the diverse strands that make up this unique intellectual trajectory." —International Journal for Philosophy of Religion"Bernard Doering has crafted a very fine translation of Robert Chenavier's comprehensive but brief introduction to Simone Weil's philosophical project. It provides an excellent English introduction to the social philosophy of Simone Weil with due attention to her understanding of the importance of work in learning to attend to the real. Doering's translation will be of interest to both a religious and secular readership, both inside and outside the academy." —Lawrence Schmidt, University of Toronto"This is an excellent introduction to the thought of Simone Weil. Chenavier understands Weil as a philosopher and in one hundred pages is able to give a succinct presentation of her, from her earliest writings to her extraordinary later ones. This sophisticated presentation can serve both as an introduction to Weil for the nonspecialist and as an introduction to Chenavier's own take on Weil for the reader who knows Weil and is interested in Chenavier’s contribution." —Eric O. Springsted, president, American Weil Society

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Book SynopsisIn Deep Rhythm and the Riddle of Eternal Life, John S. Dunne's twentieth book, he examines the end of earthly life and the prospect of eternal life. He begins with two questions: Is death an event of life? Is death lived through? If we answer yes to both questions, then we face the riddle of eternal life. This book explores that riddle. Dunne finds his answer in the Gospel of John, with its three great metaphors of life, light, and love. Dunne contemplates the meaning of the metaphors in deep rhythm, the deep rhythm of rest in the restlessness of the heart. The words of eternal life in the Gospel speak of life and light and love but also of life passing through death, of light passing through darkness, of love passing through loneliness. So, too, Christ, embodying life and light and love, passes through death and darkness and loneliness. This deeply meditative book from one of our most gifted spiritual writers and teachers will offer consolation to those at the end of Trade Review“Vintage John Dunne—for the uninitiated an invitation to enter the rhythms where words break into song; for those who know his work a journey joining him in the mantras of his meditations on the radiant circle of life, light, and love.” —John T. Noonan, Jr., Senior Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit"Four decades after he first asked it, John Dunne here returns to his question, 'If I must die someday, what can I do to satisfy my desire to live?' No one can absorb this book without coming to share his hope born of the knowledge that is rooted in love." —Jon Nilson, Loyola University Chicago“In Deep Rhythm and the Riddle of Eternal Life, John Dunne focuses on eternal life, a question that has been central to his work. The question is not simply, he says, ‘Is there a life after death?’ but, ‘Is there a life in us that can live on through death?’ In his unique but familiar way, Dunne blends explorations in theology, philosophy, literature, and music. New in this book, however, is a compact disk of Dunne's music, ‘A Symphony of Songs,’ with the author playing the piano. Although past volumes have included song lyrics and an occasional page of musical score, only now can most readers hear the music itself.” —William J. Collinge, Knott Professor of Theology, Mount St. Mary’s University“In this his 20th book, the Notre Dame professor of theology returns to a question he asked in his first book: “If I must die someday, what can I do to satisfy my desire to live?” —Notre Dame Magazine“In this erudite volume, Dunne takes us on a quest that leads through the mystery of ‘the life in us that can live on through death.’ His exploration is peppered with theological, philosophical, and literary quotations and a deep appreciation for music. . . In his quest to encounter what he calls ‘the riddle of eternal life,’ Dunne ponders the hearts desire, the road that goes on and on, a spiritual journey, a deeper life, and the process of letting go of everything and everyone. . . .” —Spirituality&Practice.com“In this book, John S. Dunne recounts the profound ways that he has thought about death and, more important, about what lasts from life. Dunne’s work is an intricate patchwork quilt of recurring and interwoven themes. As a reflective or, better, meditative stream of consciousness citing a multitude of thinkers, it is not always an easy read. But persistent effort uncovers its nuggets of wisdom.” —Commonweal“In this, his 20th book, [Dunne] examines the end of earthly life and the prospect of eternal life.” —Theology Digest“According to John S. Dunne . . . we are programmed with an urge, a rhythm by which God calls us to love and, ultimately, through death and into life. How we recognize that call, and what it means is the subject of this reflection on the meaning of living and dying, and living eternally.” —Catholic Library World

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Book SynopsisIn essays on topics ranging from Teresa of Avila''s sixteenth-century mysticism to the politicized spirituality of postmodern women writers, the contributors to Things of the Spirit chronicle the development of women''s spiritual writing as a context for defining, challenging, and changing women''s experiences in the world. They explore the nature of the sacred and women''s relationship to the sacred in the writings of women poets, diarists, autobiographers, and fiction writers. Kristina Groover contends that identifying and analyzing women''s spiritual writing relies on redefining the sacred hierarchical structures that dominate the Christian tradition by allowing for spiritualities that are heterogeneous and pluralistic, embracing some aspects of religious tradition while rejecting others, locating the sacred in the material world, emphasizing the sacredness of community, and representing the female body as a site of the sacred. Groover argues that efforts to Trade Review“Kristina Groover's collection of essays on women spiritual writers, Things of the Spirit, uncovers a rich vein of lesser known women mystics or women writers who have not previously been read as spiritual writers. This volume discloses a new way of looking at spiritual experience and writing from a women's perspective.” —Rosemary Radford Ruether, Carpenter Professor of Feminist Theology, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA“Accessible to the general reader, this volume offers a diverse selection of women's writing centered on spirituality.” —Emily Dickinson International Society Bulletin“The strength of the collection is that it chronologically demonstrates how women over time, in various contexts, have tested the limits of religious language, expanded and embodied the sacred.” —North Dakota Quarterly"These 13 essays by women scholars 'chronicle the development of women's spiritual writing as a context fo defining, challenging, and changing women's experiences in the world. They explore the nature of the sacred and women's relationship to the sacred in the writings of women poets, diarists, autobiographers, and fiction writers.'" —Theology Digest". . . both Groover's Introduction to Things of the Spirit and these thirteen feminist-focused essays on women's spirituality provide important insights into the nature of the sacred as seen over many years through the female consciousness." —Christianity and Literature

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Book SynopsisIn essays on topics ranging from Teresa of Avila''s sixteenth-century mysticism to the politicized spirituality of postmodern women writers, the contributors to Things of the Spirit chronicle the development of women''s spiritual writing as a context for defining, challenging, and changing women''s experiences in the world. They explore the nature of the sacred and women''s relationship to the sacred in the writings of women poets, diarists, autobiographers, and fiction writers. Kristina Groover contends that identifying and analyzing women''s spiritual writing relies on redefining the sacred hierarchical structures that dominate the Christian tradition by allowing for spiritualities that are heterogeneous and pluralistic, embracing some aspects of religious tradition while rejecting others, locating the sacred in the material world, emphasizing the sacredness of community, and representing the female body as a site of the sacred. Groover argues that efforts to Trade Review“Kristina Groover's collection of essays on women spiritual writers, Things of the Spirit, uncovers a rich vein of lesser known women mystics or women writers who have not previously been read as spiritual writers. This volume discloses a new way of looking at spiritual experience and writing from a women's perspective.” —Rosemary Radford Ruether, Carpenter Professor of Feminist Theology, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA“Accessible to the general reader, this volume offers a diverse selection of women's writing centered on spirituality.” —Emily Dickinson International Society Bulletin“The strength of the collection is that it chronologically demonstrates how women over time, in various contexts, have tested the limits of religious language, expanded and embodied the sacred.” —North Dakota Quarterly"These 13 essays by women scholars 'chronicle the development of women's spiritual writing as a context fo defining, challenging, and changing women's experiences in the world. They explore the nature of the sacred and women's relationship to the sacred in the writings of women poets, diarists, autobiographers, and fiction writers.'" —Theology Digest". . . both Groover's Introduction to Things of the Spirit and these thirteen feminist-focused essays on women's spirituality provide important insights into the nature of the sacred as seen over many years through the female consciousness." —Christianity and Literature

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Book SynopsisIncarnate Love is a major contribution to both Orthodox ethics and to Christian self-understanding. Completely revised with a new preface and two additional chapters, this work aims to articulate a social ethic that can make sense of the Orthodox experience in the United States, as well as challenge the Orthodox tradition to formulate a new strategy for church and societal interaction.Trade Review“This is a fine and provocative work, one whose theological and historical insights become more telling with each re-reading. . .” —Westminster Theological Journal“[Guroian’s] book breaks new ground by confronting in a radical but constructive manner the teaching of Eastern Christianity with the ethical thought of the Western church.” —Theological Book Review“This is a good book . . . it deserves careful and attentive reading as a well-informed, competent, and well-articulated piece of theological writing.” —Greek Orthodox Theological Review“. . . here is a striking breakthrough into the field of ethics by a scholar of the Armenian Orthodox Church in America. In this collection of well-crafted, provocative essays, Guroian interacts creatively with such contemporary ethicists as R. J. Neuhaus, J. C. Murray, S. Hauerwas, J. H. Yoder, and S. Harakas.” —Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society“. . . insightful and provocative . . . these essays provide rich food for thought. This is a welcome volume—devoted to thinking about ethics within a theological context, but concerned with large social questions . . . one of the very few accessible works in Orthodox ethics.” —Religious Studies Review"[A] superb collection of essays.... Vigen Guroian's remarkable offering of Orthodox Christian perspectives in ethics has stood the test of time and this new edition hopefully will allow more readers to encounter the singular, liturgical and spiritual approach to ethics of the Eastern Church." —St. Vladimir's Theological Quarterly“It is a great delight to encounter a fresh voice in the field of Christian ethics, especially when that voice speaks for a very rich strand within the Christian tradition and one which is seldom heard in contemporary discussion of ethical questions. . . . The dialogue among Christian ethicists is greatly enriched by the active participation of such a well-informed, perceptive, and challenging voice from the Orthodox tradition.” —Heythrop Journal

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Book SynopsisLee examines the writings two female mystics who, came to similar conclusions about the experience of God in contemplative prayer, often through self-denial and self-annihilation.Trade Review"In this fascinating study of two influential seventeenth-century mystics, Bo Karen Lee explores the intricate and often paradoxical connections between sacrifice of self and delight in God. Lee’s careful exposition of primary texts by Anna Maria van Schurman and Madame Jeanne Guyon reveals a theological profundity that continues to challenge, provoke, and inspire. The daring spiritualities of these two women (one Protestant, one Catholic) offer an intriguing comparative case study in early modern Christian thought." —Arthur Holder, John Dillenberger Professor of Christian Spirituality, Graduate Theological Union“This book is bold and a maddeningly honest read; it will very likely upend many of your cherished spiritual and theological assumptions. Bo Karen Lee contends that self-denial is a partner of delight, that sacrifice can engender joy, and that self-surrender is a path to true self and to union with God. In writing the theology of a spiritual journey, Lee is expert at letting the reader share this experience.” —Steven Chase, Institute for the Study of Contemporary Spirituality at Oblate School of Theology"This book is well written, well researched, and original. Bo Karen Lee's study represents the most sustained contemporary English-language investigation of van Schurman's work that I know of. Guyon has received more scholarly and popular attention, but few authors have taken her theology seriously in the way that this volume does." —Ronney Mourad, Albion College"Digging thoughtfully into the 17th-century mystical theologies of Anna Maria van Schurman and Madame Jeanne Guyon, Lee explores how self-denial could become the secret of profound religious joy. The interesting juxtaposition of a little-known Dutch Protestant (van Schurman) with a French Roman Catholic whose mystical theology was deemed heretical (Guyon) sets up a profound conversation about the possibility of talking about mystical experiences with God." —Choice“Despite the fact that Schurman and Guyon influenced important currents in European spirituality, their ideas were unpopular in the seventeenth century and still make people uncomfortable today. Lee argues that their unpopularity and daring should serve as models for doing theology ‘in the margins’ and as a warning against the dangers of over-intellectualizing theology.” —Catholic Library World“In this compelling study of two seventeenth-century female mystics, the author examines the writings of Anna Maria van Schurman and Madame Jeanne Guyon, who, despite different religious formations, came to similar conclusions about the experience of God in contemplative prayer.” —Studies in Spirituality“This fascinating and original work by Bo Karen Lee . . . is an outstanding contribution to the literature on the history of Christian spirituality, particularly in the early modern period. Lee skillfully demonstrates the groundbreaking manner in which [van Schurman and Guyon] linked self-denial with pleasure.” —Theology Today“In her final chapter, Lee makes a potent argument for recuperating of at least some of the ideals that Guyon and van Schurman risked their lives and reputations to promote . . . With Sacrifices and Delight Karen Bo Lee advances this conversation in an important way, offering her exquisitely sensitive readings along with a keenly felt respect for the difficulties, whether theological or psychological, in recuperating such complicated legacies.” —Spiritus: A Journal of Christian Spirituality “Bo Karen Lee’s monograph is an in-depth comparative study of the spirituality of self-denial in certain writings of Anna Maria van Schurman . . . and Jeanne Marie Guyon . . . [who] transgressed the entrenched boundaries of their respective traditions and developed theological spiritualties that converged in a number of important aspects. . . . Lee’s study . . . unveils the depth and intellectual seriousness of their work, making them freshly accessible as important voices of early modern spirituality.” —Teresianum“Indeed, there is much to inspire and challenge contemporary Christians in the remarkable lives and writings of these two women. . . . [Lee’s] lucid, elegant, and insightful readings of Schurman and Guyon, along with the valuable excerpts of van Schurman’s writing translated in three appendices to the book, will prompt a deeper appreciation of their work.” —Journal of Religion“Sacrifice and Delight in the Mystical Theologies of Anna Maria van Schurman and Madame Jeanne Guyon explores themes of self denial and self annihilation in the writings of two 17th-century mystics, one a Dutch Calvinist turned Labadist, the other, a French Catholic turned Quietist.”—The Chronicle of Higher Education.

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Book SynopsisThis text focuses on the emergence of the human race and the individual from an undifferentiated oneness and the return of the individual to the human community and to reflective and differentiated oneness with God. Dunne expresses this oneness through music and language.Trade Review". . . a profound and profoundly personal essay on the spiritual path of the human being . . . this striking and original work of theology is highly recommended.” —Library Journal". . .theology comes alive as a joyous celebration in the work of John Dunne." —Booklist"Dunne's prose is thickly layered with poetic and literary allusions and quotations, encouraging the reader to linger and reflect on the images described. The astounding breadth and diversity of literary and musical quotations reveal deep understanding in both of these fields which seem to be truly united in the author's life. Through his personal story, Dunne describes universal aspects of our existence as we journey toward reunion with God." —Perspectives in Religious Studies“It is difficult to convey the subtleties of the yearning of our hearts for unity with God, others and the abundant pleasures of life on Earth. In this richly textured paperback, Dunne does just that, a commendable mix of philosophy, literary wisdom and theological acumen.” —Spirituality and Health“Dunne is one of our finest writers of spiritual literature. His intellectual breadth alone marks his work as significant. His poetic style prompts slow and careful reading . . . John Dunne offers nourishment to which we can return often.” —Denise Carmody, Santa Clara University“John Dunne has been pursuing human wholeness through the course of his many books. His insights into our completeness come out of his unique journey leading to the healing of his own separations: from the paths not taken earlier in life that return to join the one consciously chosen; from his relationships with others, leading to his meeting other people where we are most alone; and, ultimately, from his discovery of God's presence in his own experience of longing.” —Carol Ochs, Hebrew Union College“The old master has been at work again! John Dunne provides a rare combination of the poignantly personal with the utterly universal, a work of intense thought and reflection that erupts into song, a book that like a good friend pauses and responds to your questions about the life of the spirit as it pauses and responds to John Dunne’s own doubts and difficulties and desires.” —John T. Noonan, author of The Lustre of Our Country“John S. Dunne is a Catholic theologian who really does understand what it means to listen and discern the voice of God.” —Newsweek

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Book SynopsisThe title of Charles Taliaferro's book is derived from poems and stories in which a person in peril or on a quest must follow a cord or string in order to find the way to happiness, safety, or home. In one of the most famous of such tales, the ancient Greek hero Theseus follows the string given him by Ariadne to mark his way in and out of the Minotaur's labyrinth. William Blake''s poem Jerusalem uses the metaphor of a golden string, which, if followed, will lead one to heaven itself. Taliaferro extends Blake's metaphor to illustrate the ways we can link what we see, feel, and do with deep spiritual realities. Taliaferro offers a foundational case for the recognition of the experience of the eternal God of Christianity, in which God is understood as the fount of all goodness and the subject and object of our best love, revealed through scripture, tradition, philosophical reflection, and encountered in everyday events. He addresses philosophical obstacles to the recognition of Trade Review"Charles Taliaferro is a first rate philosopher. The Golden Cord: A Short Book on the Secular and the Sacred is truly original in that it picks up the debate about the viability of secular naturalism and brings it into conversation with Cambridge Platonism and with ascetic theological considerations. It will be of interest to students and scholars in philosophy, popular culture, and spirituality." —William Abraham, Southern Methodist University"In The Golden Cord, Charles Taliaferro again proves to be not only a careful and insightful thinker, but also a wonderfully enjoyable—and widely read—writer. As he tackles big questions of life, he engages the relevant philosophers of our time as well as literary figures from W. H. Auden and Virginia Woolf to Ernest Hemingway, George Orwell, Teilhard de Chardin, and J. R. R.Tolkien. As a guide, Taliaferro doesn't merely wander the edges; he plunges into core issues of our human existence, inviting his readers to wade into the great sea of divine love." —Matthew Dickerson, author of The Mind and the Machine: What it Means to be Human and Why it Matters"[One of the work's strength] lies in the easy accessibility of the important themes presented: experience, art and literature, and the way in which philosophical positions concerning God's existence imply and are grounded in different worldviews. Anselm's, Aquinas's, Hume's and other classical philosophical arguments for and against the existence of God will always be part of the human cultural heritage. But they do not of themselves address the question: why does it matter whether there is a God, or why does it matter that one believe (or disbelieve) in a God? What has it got to do with living a meaningful human life, or with enjoying one's life or finding one's inner peace? Taliaferro's book addresses and answers those questions admirably. . ." —Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews". . . In eight chapters, Taliaferro . . brings the bases of naturalistic and materialist views to critical evaluation by examining challenges to consciousness and selfless agency. He response to the challenges that incoherence and the problem of evil pose for theism. This volume interweaves philosophers, including Augustine, Nagel, Dennett, Parfit, and Van Inwagen together with ancient Christian texts to cover an extraordinary breadth of literature . . . This volume is one of the best this reviewer has read in many years. Essential." —Choice“[The Golden Cord] offers various reasons for resisting materialism and trusting the religious experience of God as an eternal, good being . . . insightfully argued and largely accessible to a wide academic audience. . . . Recommended for university and seminary libraries.” —Catholic Library World"In this highly eclectic, personal, and engaging work, Charles Taliaferro argues why even 'gravity is a manifestation of God's love' . . . For Taliaferro, there are various cords in life that can lead us to God. To reach such a destination, he takes the reader along a journey whose terrain is steeped in literary metaphors, philosophical contours (and obstacles), and autobiographical insights and depictions. . . . [For him,] personal experience cannot be excised from any so-called academic work and it is refreshing to see an author (and a publisher) encourage such mixing." —The Heythrop Journal“These [final] chapters do not merely talk abut the divine life: they disclose it. The skeptical reader may forget about the time and find himself drawn closer to communion with God. Here is a good book to lose oneself in.” —Christian Research Journal“Taliaferro strives to demonstrate that there are certain ‘golden cords’ that one can follow throughout this life that will lead them to the God of eternal love. Taliaferro’s critique of radical materialism is especially insightful, and readers will benefit from his discussion on why consciousness fits better within a theistic framework.” —Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies“In The Golden Cord, Taliaferro aims to bring his previous insights together to build a cumulative case for a Christian worldview inspired by the Christian spirituality of the Cambridge Platonists. . . . In fewer than one hundred and eighty pages, the book covers enormous ground. . . . Taliaferro succeeds in presenting an impassioned book that is both thought-provoking and eminently readable, serving as an overview of, or introduction to, Christian philosophy” —The Expository Times“Charles Taliaferro has written a thought-provoking, original work that succeeds in throwing some of the central tenets of naturalism into question. He has gathered cutting-edge scholarship from the context of debates about naturalism and discusses that within the framework of a theological account of the human condition. The result is a robust theological response to secular naturalism, one that deserves to be taken seriously by the latter’s proponents.” —Victoria Harrison, University of Glasgow

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Book SynopsisGod's image as Judge can engender shame and guilt in women. This study explores the underworld journeys of women like Demeter and Psyche, and their reflections in works by such women as Sylvia Plath and Virginia Woolf, arguing that the tradition they represent has much to offer modern Christians.Trade Review“Gagné explores women's psychological and spiritual journeys through the lens of three ancient myths and modern literature. Many feminists seek to recover the goddess of preliterary civilizations. Gagné claims that the literary myths of underworld journeys of the goddesses Innana, Demeter/Persephone, and Psyche are integral to her wholeness as a Christian woman. She says that Innana illustrates that one cannot move from powerless to compassionate without first venting anger, while Demeter/Persephone shows that the discovery of wholeness is never once-and-for-all; Psyche demonstrates the struggle to discover self within passionate relationships. Gagné is convinced these stories are useful because they integrate sexuality and suffering, leading to a new experience of God. Explaining how these themes are explored in the works of Sylvia Plath, Joan Didion, Mary Gordon, Virginia Woolf, and other authors, she concludes with reflections drawn from the diary of Etta Hillesum—a woman who exemplified the underworld experiences and encountered God. Erudite and well written, this book offers a fresh perspective for Christian feminist-heirs to a tradition that has distanced bodily experience from spiritualities. Those unfamiliar with the literature that Gagné refers to will have limited appreciation of the study—those who know it will find her work masterful. For libraries supporting women's studies, literature, and spirituality; upper-division undergraduates and above.” —Choice * Choice *“Three Years of Writing, twelve years of teaching a course on the “Woman’s Journey,” and a lifetime of intense introspection have resulted in a hypnotic, ...monolog that describes the author’s journey towards achieving an edifiying sense of self-knowledge.” —Utopian Studies

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Book SynopsisIn Spiritual Guides: Pathfinders in the Desert, Fred Dallmayr challenges the desert character of modern culture. Political and economic corruption, incessant warmongering, spoliation of natural resources, and, above all, mindless consumerism and greedy self-satisfaction are all symptoms of what he contends is an expanding wasteland or desert where everything creative and nourishing decays and withers. Through an alternative interpretation of Nietzsche''s saying the desert grows, this book calls for spiritual renewal, invoking in particular four prominent guides or pathfinders in the desert: Paul Tillich, Raimon Panikkar, Thomas Merton, and Pope Francis. What links all four guides together is the view of spiritual life as an itinerarium, a pathway along difficult and often uncharted roads.Dallmayr begins by drawing a connection between Nietzsche''s characterization of the desert in Thus Spoke Zarathustra and the present culture of consumerism, in which a nearly-eTrade Review"Spiritual Guides: Pathfinders in the Desert continues Fred Dallmayr's already significant analysis of where we are today by offering an account of lives that provide hope in a time that often seems hopeless. This book provides a presentation of the thought of the central four figures in a manner such that one illumines the other. Dallmayr's presentation of the four is quite moving because this is a book that is rightly thought of as 'spiritual.' That could be a dismissive description, but the way Dallmayr presents the work is really quite profound." —Stanley Hauerwas, Gilbert T. Rowe Professor Emeritus of Divinity and Law, Duke Divinity School -- Stanley Hauerwas, Duke Divinity School"Insightfully and inspiringly, Dallmayr illustrates how his spiritual guides—Tillich, Panikkar, Merton, Pope Francis—can lead us to a self-and-world-transforming spirituality that overcomes current dualities between sacred and profane, immanence and transcendence, mysticism and prophecy, contemplation and action. In his concluding chapters on Muslim and Buddhist mystics, he also makes clear that such a spirituality can and must be an inter-spirituality. This is a book that will speak to both religious scholars and practitioners." —Paul Knitter, Paul Tillich Professor Emeritus of Theology, World Religions, and Culture, Union Theological Seminary“Fred Dallmayr. . . has chosen four pathfinders in the desert to provide the spiritual guidance we need to make it through these perilous and disturbing times. . . . As an added treat, Dallmayr opens our hearts by including chapters on Muslim and Buddhist mystics as fellow travelers on this enlightening journey.” —Spirituality & Practice “Dallmayr’s Spiritual Guides: Pathfinders in the Desert takes four contemporary western Christian thinkers and theologians and explores their views on the meaning of spirituality in the modern world. . . . What was crucial for all four thinkers and theologians in Dallmayr’s study was the importance of dialogue and creating ‘communion’ with other communities.” —The Muslim World Book Review"[Dallmayr] provides here a constructive reading that makes apparent how mystical traditions can be seen as ways to critically approach contemporary Western political, economic, and spiritual culture." —Reading Religion

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Book SynopsisWritten centuries before Christ, the Psalms of the Hebrew Bible have been prayed by Christians since the founding of the Church. The early church fathers expounded the psalms in the light of the mystery of Christ, his death and resurrection, and his saving redemption. In this book, a Benedictine monk examines the Christian praying of the Psalms, taking into account modern and contemporary research on the Psalms. Working from the Hebrew text, Fr. Laurence Kriegshauser offers a verse-by-verse commentary on each of the one hundred and fifty psalms, highlighting poetic features such as imagery, rhythm, structure, and vocabulary, as well as theological and spiritual dimensions and the relation of psalms to each other in the smaller collections that make up the whole. The book attempts to integrate modern scholarship on the Psalms with the act of prayer and help Christians pray the psalms with greater understanding of their Christological meaning.The book contains an introduction, Trade Review“This book is a superb example of how a Christian contemplative, enriched by historical criticism, by the Fathers, and by the liturgical tradition, should read the Psalms. It will find its readership among believing Christians who desire to be led into the psalms in a way that integrates patristic and historical-critical learning. This book is for readers seeking to grow in faith and in their understanding of the meaning of biblical revelation.” —Matthew Levering, Ave Maria University "Many will profitably read Laurence Kriegshauser OSB's Praying the Psalms in Christ from cover to cover, but many more will gratefully consult it for its learned and lection divina exposition. Psalm by psalm Kriegshauser smoothly keeps track of key Hebrew words, with their repetitions and their echoes, and he highlights them like a good docent in a cathedral or museum. He does not get in the way of the Way." —Review for Religious“ . . . rooted in the theology that developed from St. Paul and subsequently St. Augustine, Kriegshauser offers a refreshing new commentary on the Hebrew text of the Psalter. Like few others he bridges the gap between devotional concerns on the one hand and historical-critical ones on the other. . . . I recommend this book to a wide audience of readers, whether that be a priest or pastor preparing for a daily or weekly liturgy; liturgical or retreat planners; students of the Bible, whether beginning or advanced; or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the psalms as distinctively Christian prayers, even while rooted in their original contexts in First and Second Temple Judaism.” —The Living Church“The greatest strength of the book is its detailed cross-referencing. Throughout the commentary Kriegshauser refers to both Testaments, inviting readers into a deeper reflection on the biblical text as a whole. Another positive aspect is his brief introduction to and regular engagement with critical scholarship. Kriegshauser reads the psalms canonically; he keeps an eye on different genres of psalms and on recognizing the shape and shaping of the psalms as/into a book.” —The Catholic Biblical Quarterly“Kriegshauser is a careful scholar. He knows not only Hebrew and Greek, but is reading commentators in Latin, French, and German. Insights from all these areas flow smoothly together to illuminate each psalm. Kriegshauser encourages us, ‘Let us then study the psalms as the language spoken to the Father by the humanity redeemed in Christ’ (12). His book is a great help to us in achieving that goal.” —The American Benedictine Review“Here is a commentary on the Psalms that can also double as spiritual reading or material for meditation. The imagery of each psalm is explored, as well as other artifices that convey the impact of that psalm. . . . The Christ-reference is not imposed on the Psalms, but rather is made to shine through a thorough investigation of the meaning in context.” —Bible Today“This book offers suggestions about how the psalms can become the vehicles of Christ’s prayer in his Body the Church. The author works from the Hebrew text and is always quick to note where it yields greater depth or concreteness than the translations . . . this work is for students, ministers and all who have had some prior induction into the psalms and Scripture.” —Catholic Library World“Here is a book that reaches both backwards and forwards in its search for the manifold treasures in the psalms: backwards, in a careful exegesis of each psalm and an investigation of its interrelationship to psalms as a whole, and forwards, to the presence in the psalms of Christ who made them his own and who continues to pray them through us. This fine book leads us to dig deep for the treasures it contains.” —Cistercian Studies“One of the most well known Old Testament books in the Bible that is used for liturgical purposes is the Psalms. Benedictine Laurence Kriegshauser’s commentary on the Book of the Psalms examines these texts through a Christian lens, specifically, through the lens of Christ . . . this commentary is reader-friendly and makes a contribution to the many other commentaries written on the psalms.” —Horizons"Father Kriegshauser, a Benedictine monk in Missouri, takes a wholly traditional approach with his Praying the Psalms in Christ, a patient verse-by-verse and image-by-image exposition of each psalm in the spirit of the most ancient patristic commentaries, although Kriegshauser does take good advantage of recent scholarship . . . as a year-long course with a learned priest, it will amply reward the patient Christian reader." —Library Journal

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Book SynopsisThis beautifully written book opens up the riches of the Carmelite tradition, helping Christians of every denomination to read Scripture in a spirit of prayer.Trade ReviewWe are living through times of disillusionment and bewilderment – a global "dark night of the soul". Carmelite spirituality understands this terrain. This book guides us expertly into the spirit of Carmel, outlining its background, introducing us to major Carmelite visionaries, from Teresa of Avila to Edith Stein, and inviting us to explore the Carmelite method of quiet contemplative prayer, just "gazing on God". A series of very practical contemporary questions encourages us to apply Carmelite wisdom to our own situations, and allow the gentle light of Carmel’s wisdom to bring insight to our own dark nights. * Margaret Silf, author and retreat facilitator *For any Christians who have asked themselves the question, "How do I pray?", especially during the sacred season of Lent, this book will come as a timely help. Fr McCaffrey, drawing upon a lifetime’s experience of Carmelite life and his own unsurpassable biblical scholarship, presents a satisfying synthesis – scholarly and practical, humble yet brilliant. I warmly commend it. * Professor Peter Tyler, St Mary’s University, Twickenham, London *Partly because of the intense mystical experiences of individual Carmelites, and particularly of Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross, it is too easy to see Carmelite spirituality as "difficult" or even esoteric; as only suited to very advanced souls. Fr McCaffrey ocd does an extraordinarily lovely job of making this spiritual tradition somehow "pure" – sensible has become too prosaic a word. The underlying themes of "openness to the spirit" through the Scriptures are made accessible, enriching, worthwhile. It is the sort of Lent book many of us need – expanding and deepening our practice as an exploration into the new which at the same time has been tested through the tradition. It is both useful and beautiful. * Sara Maitland, author of A Book of Silence and many other titles *In a world marked by division and uncertainty, God calls us to communion. Too many hearts are beset by lingering weakness and unhealed wounds. God beckons with silence. Our lives are filled with the disposable and casual. God entices us with his eternal Presence. With keen spiritual insight, Fr McCaffrey poignantly captures this spiritual adventure, this journey of accompaniment with the Holy Spirit, which the Church invites us to set out upon during Lent. With wisdom born of faith, Fr McCaffrey delves into the riches of his own Carmelite tradition. His confident assurance is that God is inviting us, yet again this Lent, into a "privileged time for prayer", when the gentle hand of God can transform each of us into the likeness of Jesus Christ. * Monsignor Joseph Reilly, Rector and Dean of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology *

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Book SynopsisA selection of the best from BBC Radio 4's Lent Talks over the last ten years. Featuring the voices of James Runcie, Bonnie Greer, Ann Widdecombe, Giles Fraser, Alexander McCall Smith, Nick Baines and an introduction by [XXX].Table of ContentsWEEK ONE - JAMES RUNCIE - MYSTERY First broadcast as part of the BBC Lent Talks 2015, director, literary curator and writer of The Grantchester Mysteries, James Runcie looks at the passion through the prism of mystery drama. WEEK TWO - BONNIE GREER - NAMES A gem of BBC Lent Talks 2014 archive, this talk sees playwright, novelist and critic Bonnie Greer reflect on the power of names. WEEK THREE - ANN WIDDECOMBE - GOODNESS Taken from the 2008 Lent Talks series, former MP, TV personality and author Ann Widdecombe reflects on the examples set by Jesus in his decision to go to the cross. WEEK FOUR - GILES FRASER - SACRIFICE First broadcast as part of the BBC Lent Talks 2010, Rev Dr Giles Fraser, Church of England priest, journalist and broadcaster, invites readers to reflect on the nature of sacrifice. WEEK FIVE - ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH - ABANDONMENT Taken from the Lent Talks 2013, author Alexander McCall Smith explores the sense of being abandoned as you grow older. WEEK SIX - NICK BAINES - VISION Marking the beginning of the Lent Talks 2012, author, broadcaster and Bishop of Leeds, Nick Baines reflects on the challenges of finding a new narrative for the individual and community.

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Book SynopsisThis inspiring book by a highly regarded author and Jesuit priest offers a wealth of different ways to pray.

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Book SynopsisAn investigation of a discipleship by one of the world's foremost theologians.Trade Review'Alister McGrath invariably combines enormous scholarship with an accessible and engaging style.' ROWAN WILLIAMS, Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge;'Again and again, Alister McGrath elegantly performs that central task of any teacher: to enable his students and readers, starting from the familiar ground of what they already know, to go on to explore new territory, and begin to see an expanded horizon.', Church Times

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Book SynopsisA vibrant and heartfelt Lent book exploring how God's grace is threaded through even our darkest experiencesTrade ReviewOn every page of this Lent book, there’s an invitation to journey which is as enticing as it is challenging. I found myself wanting to venture into the wilderness out of choice and not simply circumstance, and the adventure left me seeing, feeling and sharing in God’s grace. -- Bishop Jo WellsUnearthly Beauty (SPCK, 2017): With heartfelt honesty, clarity and humanity, Magdalen Smith challenges the Church to see the journey ahead with new eyes. This book is a timely prophetic call to be refreshed by our inheritance in ways that renew integrity and hope. -- Libby Lane, Bishop of StockportA treasure chest of gems. -- Jill Duff, Director of St Mellitus North West training courseFragile Mystics (SPCK, 2015): The mystics, both medieval and modern, bring a welcome invitation to be still, adore, face the reality of darkness and grow above all in the love of God which, as Paul says, ‘surpasses knowledge’. If prayerfulness is diminishing in your life or ministry, Magdalen Smith’s quiet skill will help you see that it doesn’t have to be this way. -- Keith Sinclair, Bishop of BirkenheadMagdalen Smith enables us to reclaim a sense of mystical living . . . you will want to revisit [this book] again and again. * Magnet *Steel Angels (SPCK, 2014): This book is a breath of fresh air. It takes the nine Criteria which the Church uses for selecting clergy and applies them to reflect on the practicalities of lived-out ministerial life. But what is so exciting is the engaging way this is done: the world of art, film, novels and poetry are all richly evoked to spark the reader s imagination and to enable creative connections. This is an insightful and thought-provoking book which will provide fresh perspectives, set theological hares running and serve as a valuable resource for all those involved in pastoral ministry or exploring their vocation. -- Stephen Ferns, Senior Selection Secretary, Church of England Ministry DivisionMagdalen’s book could produce a rethinking and reorientation of pastoral theology. -- The Revd Ken LeechSteel Angels by Magdalen Smith is an excellent contribution to the discernment canon. Smith uses a range of techniques to look at the spiritual, emotional, pastoral, and administrative aspects of the life and work of a priest . . . Drawing on appropriate personal experience, church politics, art and the Bible, her beautifully written book offers many delights. Her capacity for taking the mundane and finding an illuminating illustration from scripture, literature, the visual arts or popular culture ensures that there is no dryness of approach. * Church Times *

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Book SynopsisA fresh perspective on Evelyn Underhill, exploring the spiritual direction she received and the soul care she offered to others - 'a brilliantly written book' EUGENE PETERSONTrade ReviewThe sheer beauty and brilliance of this recent book is the way the close and symbiotic relationship between von Hugel and Underhill is carefully and thoughtfully tracked and traced. * Clarion Journal on The Spiritual Formation of Evelyn Underhill *The Spiritual Formation of Evelyn Underhill provides a very fine introduction/invitation . . . [it] will make rich and enjoyable reading for those fortunate to be already acquainted with Underhill’s writings. * Journal of Anglican Studies *Excellent. -- Cally Hammond * Church Times on The Spiritual Formation of Evelyn Underhill *For those who love Evelyn Underhill and her many writings this Prayer Book is a real find! Here in this handsomely produced book is her compilation of prayers from the saints, theologians, liturgical texts, and her own prayers. These served as a resource in her work as a pioneering retreat leader and spiritual director. Reading these prayers puts the reader in the company of a woman of profound wisdom and deep prayerfulness. Her love of God and care for others is palpable. -- Dana Greene, President, The Evelyn Underhill Association on Evelyn Underhill's Prayer Book

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Book SynopsisWhat do we do when life hasn't turned out the way we expected? These refreshingly candid stories encourage readers trying to adult' how to find joy in the journey of a messy, work-in-progress walk of (sometimes failing, but still standing) faith.

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Book SynopsisSleepers Wake, the Archbishop of York’s Advent Book 2022, explores the reality of climate change and how Advent is an opportunity for us to wake up, sense the urgency and begin to make radical change.Trade ReviewFine and pertinent meditations on Christian spirituality from the former lead bishop on the environment . . . This is a book to use seriously, prayerfully, and determinedly during Advent. * Church TImes on SLEEPERS WAKE *An imaginative and refreshing take on advent in a time of climate crisis. * anglican.ink on SLEEPERS WAKE *There is plenty of rich fruit here . . . an original and intriguing book for Advent. * Transforming Ministry on SLEEPERS WAKE *Shot through with hope. -- Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York on SLEEPERS WAKELike Bach’s great Wachet auf! chorale, this walk through the weeks of Advent is both a carefully constructed meditation, and an unsettling call to action. In the face of climate catastrophe, Nicholas Holtam invites us to pause in front of paintings that challenge us with the scale of our responsibilities, and reveal the grace we are promised if we tackle them. Poetry and music, painting and personal recollections combine in a new version of the Advent call to change our lives – while we still can. In Bach’s words: Wake up! * Neil MacGregor, broadcaster and former museum director *We need a strong spirituality to help us address the issues of climate change. This Advent, Bishop Holtam invites the reader to an internal journey of self-discovery, where we recognize both our miraculous uniqueness and our inextricable unity with the rest of Creation. -- Christiana Figueres, Head of UN Climate Change Convention, 2010-2016The ideal Advent companion! Rooted both in the Bible and the current environmental crisis, Bishop Holtam’s meditations help us to face the challenge of the Saviour who will finally come in judgement of what we have done to God’s world, while we are preparing to offer all we have to the Babe of Bethlehem. Read it yourself daily, study it in weekly groups – but most importantly, wake from sleep and act now before it is too late. -- The Revd Canon Professor Richard A. Burridge, biblical scholar and Canon Theologian[A] beautiful volume . . . Combining the acts of hearing and seeing, the book induces a worshipful stillness * Christianity Today on THE ART OF WORSHIP *

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Book SynopsisDiscusses the dynamics of religious conversion, presenting it as a process of change with personal, cultural, social and religious implications. The text draws on insights from psychology, anthropology, theology, missiology and interviews with converts from disparate backgrounds.

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Book SynopsisIn a series of 12 interviews with leading philosophers, Gary Gutting brings contemporary debates on God, religion and faith to the public.Trade Review"Gutting’s own viewpoint never obtrudes on the exchanges, and this makes him a model interviewer—a balance especially welcome in this partisan time." -- Religion and the Arts

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Book SynopsisAn anthropologist examines the nature of religiosity and how it shapes and benefits humankind.Trade Review"In this thoughtful, comprehensive, well-written book, he [Konner] explores the psychology, development, brain science, evolution and even possible genetics of the varied religious impulses our species experiences." -- Human Givens

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Book SynopsisThis thoughtful, practical guide shows readers a way through the minefield of condemnation and persecution faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Christians and helps foster a faith that is bulletproofimpervious to attacks, yet loving and savvy in its approach. Bulletproof Faith is filled with useful insights and proven spiritual practices that deflect attacks and enhance and strengthen faith by turning attacks into opportunities for spiritual growth.Trade ReviewChellew-Hodge, a former journalist, is a UCC pastor who runs the online magazine Whosoever.org. Her experiences as a gay Christian searching for how to live with integrity while contending with sometimes hateful opposition inform this book. The “spiritual survival tips” that conclude each chapter serve not only as summaries but also as direct points of advice for GLBT persons coping with inevitable conflict. She also includes brief meditation exercises. Chellew-Hodge offers a realistic voice of experience filled with compassion and love—not just for her intended audience but also for their attackers. Although some may find her impulse to forgive premature, Chellew-Hodge does not naïvely excuse much less accept the abusive language and behavior of antigay Christians. This is not a book explaining relevant Bible passages and their interpretations, though Chellew-Hodge advocates biblical literacy beyond literalism. Instead, it is a confident, sensible approach to handling the opposition and self-doubt that can undermine a GLBT person's sense of worth and belonging as a Christian. (Oct.) (Publishers Weekly, August 11, 2008)Table of ContentsAcknowledgments. Introduction: There Is Only One Side. Chapter 1: Becoming Bulletproof. Chapter 2: Losing Our Religion. Spiritual Survival Exercise: Reclaiming Our Authentic Self. Chapter 3: Learning to Love the Questions. Chapter 4: Wisdom Before Weapons. Spiritual Survival Exercise: Surrender Before Battle. Chapter 5: Learning the Outward Moves. Chapter 6: The Gift of the Enemy. Spiritual Survival Exercise: Breathing into Our Pain. Chapter 7: The Only Thing That Counts. Chapter 8: You Know Your Faith Is Bulletproof When . . .. Chapter 9: "No Weapon Shall Prosper". Spiritual Survival Exercise: Is That Your Final Answer? Notes. Recommended Reading. Online Resources. About the Author.

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Book SynopsisEngagingly written by one of the world's leading scholars in this field, this comprehensively revised edition tells the story of Christian spirituality from its origins in the New Testament right up to the present day. Charts the main figures, ideas, images and historical periods, showing how and why spirituality has changed and developed over the centuries Includes new chapters on the nature and meaning of spirituality, and on spirituality in the 21st century; and an account of the development and main features of devotional spirituality Provides new coverage of Christian spirituality's relationship to other faiths throughout history, and their influence and impact on Christian beliefs and practices Features expanded sections on mysticism, its relationship to spirituality, the key mystical figures, and the development of ideas of the mystical' Explores the interplay between culture, geography, and spirituality, taking a global perspeTrade Review“This volume would be an excellent text for the upper-level or seminary student. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals/practitioners.” (Choice, 1 October 2013) Table of ContentsPreface xi 1 What is Spirituality? 1 Origins of the Word “Spirituality” 2 Contemporary Meaning 3 What is Christian Spirituality? 6 Spirituality and Mysticism 7 The Study of Spirituality 9 Spirituality and History 11 Interpretation 12 Types of Spirituality 15 Periods and Traditions 17 Conclusion: Criteria of Judgment 18 2 Foundations: Scriptures and Early Church 23 Christian Spirituality and the Scriptures 24 Scriptural Markers 25 Spirituality in the New Testament 27 Spirituality and the Early Church 30 Liturgy 31 Spirituality and Martyrdom 32 Shrines, Devotion, and Pilgrimage 33 Spirituality and Doctrine 34 Origen 35 Evagrius 36 The Cappadocians 36 Augustine 37 Pseudo-Dionysius 38 Christian Spirituality as Transformation and Mission 39 Theories of Spiritual Transformation 41 Conclusion 43 3 Monastic Spiritualities: 300–1150 47 The Emergence of Monasticism 50 Widows and Virgins 50 Syrian Ascetics 51 Egyptian Monasticism 52 Wisdom of the Desert 53 Monastic Rules 56 Benedictine Expansion 59 The New Hermits 61 The Cistercians 63 The Spiritual Values of Monasticism 65 Spirituality and the Conversion of Europe 67 Local Spiritualities: Ireland 68 Spirituality in the East 70 Syriac Spirituality 73 Conclusion 74 4 Spirituality in the City: 1150–1450 79 The Gregorian Reform 80 Apocalyptic Movements 81 The Vita Evangelica 82 Twelfth-Century Renaissance 83 The Rebirth of Cities 84 Cathedrals and Urban Vision 85 The City as Sacred 86 Universities as Sacred Space 87 Vita Evangelica and Urban Sensibilities 88 The Mendicant Movement 89 Dominic, Francis, Clare, and Bonaventure 90 The Beguines 94 Fourteenth-Century Mysticism 96 Julian of Norwich 98 Crossing Spiritual Boundaries: The Influence of Islam 100 Devotional Spirituality 101 Spirituality and Eastern Christianity 102 The Renaissance 104 Conclusion 106 5 Spiritualities in the Age of Reformations: 1450–1700 110 Seeds of Reform: The Devotio Moderna and Christian Humanism 113 The Crisis of Medieval Spirituality 114 Spirituality and the Lutheran Reformation 115 John Calvin and Reformed Spirituality 117 The Radical Reformation: Anabaptist Spirituality 118 Anglican Spirituality 120 George Herbert 121 Puritan Spirituality 124 Early Quakers 125 The Catholic Reformation 126 The New Orders 126 Ignatius Loyola and Early Ignatian Spirituality 126 Spirituality Beyond Europe 131 Carmelite Mysticism 133 Lay Devotion 135 Seventeenth-Century French Spirituality 137 Russian Spirituality 140 Conclusion 141 6 Spirituality in an Age of Reason: 1700–1900 145 Spirituality in the Roman Catholic Tradition 148 Pietism 150 Wesleyan Spirituality 151 American Puritanism and the Great Awakening 153 Shaker Spirituality 154 Orthodox Spirituality 156 Post-Revolutionary Catholicism 159 The English Evangelicals 161 The Oxford Movement 164 John Henry Newman 166 A Distinctive “American Spirituality” 167 Conclusion 170 7 Modernity to Postmodernity: 1900–2000 173 The Impact on Spirituality 175 The Prophetic-Critical Type 175 Charles de Foucauld (1858–1916) 176 Evelyn Underhill (1875–1941) 177 Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945) 179 Simone Weil (1909–1943) 181 Dorothy Day (1897–1980) 183 Thomas Merton (1915–1968) 184 Spiritualities of Liberation 186 Gustavo Gutiérrez (1928–) 186 Feminist Spirituality 188 Spiritualities of Reconciliation 190 Ecumenical Spirituality: The Example of Taizé 192 Spirituality and Inter-Religious Dialogue: Bede Griffiths 193 Eastern Orthodox Spirituality 195 Making Spirituality Democratic: The Retreat Movement 197 Making Spirituality Democratic: Pentecostal and Charismatic Spirituality 199 Conclusion 200 8 Twenty-First Century Trajectories 203 Will Christian Spiritualities Survive? 203 A Globalized World 205 Cyberspace 206 Inter-Religious Encounter 208 Christian Spirituality and Secular Spirituality 210 Spirituality, Business, and Economics 210 Spirituality and Healthcare 213 Spirituality and the Meaning of Cities 216 The Spiritual and the Spatial 217 The Spiritual and Urban Virtues 218 Other Factors? 219 The Contemporary Turn to Practice 220 Conclusion 222 Select Bibliography 223 Select Glossary 232 Index 240

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Book SynopsisUsing a wide array of Pagan, Jewish, and Christian sources, this book examines the ancient understanding of smell through religious rituals, liturgical practices, mystagogical commentaries, literary imagery, theological discourse, and eschatological expectations.Table of ContentsContents Acknowledgments Abbreviations Introduction 1. The Olfactory Context: Smelling the Early Christian World A Martyr's Scent Sacrifice: The Aroma of Relation Daily Smells: Powers and Promises God's Perfume: Imagined Glory and the Scent of Life 2. The Christian Body: Ritually Fashioned Experience A New Place A Revelatory World Participatory Knowing: Ritual Scents and Devotional Uses Participatory Knowing: Scents and Sense Excursus: Incense Offerings in the Syriac Transitus Mariae 3. Olfaction and Christian Knowing Sense Perception in the Ancient Mind Christian Senses in a Christian World Olfactory Analogies as Theological Tools Revelatory Scents: Olfaction and Identity Remembering Knowledge: Liturgical Commentaries Excursus: On the Sinful Woman in Syriac Tradition 4. Redeeming Scents: Ascetic Models The Smell of Danger: Marking Sensory Contexts The Fragrance of Virtue: Reordering Olfactory Experience The Spiritual Senses: Relocating Perception Ascetic Practice and Embodied Liturgy The Stylite's Model A Syriac Tradition Continued 5. Sanctity and Stench Ascetic Stench: Sensation and Dissonance Stench and Morality: Mortality and Sin Ascetic Senses Asceticism: Holy Stench, Holy Weapon 6. Resurrection, Sensation, and Knowledge Bodily Expectation Salvific Knowing Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA Party for Lazarus is the story of a Cuban family, six generations removed from slavery, struggling to honor its ancestors amid changing fortunes and a crumbling state. This intimate intergenerational account centers on an annual feast celebrating ancestors and orisásthe life-changing spirits at the heart of Black Atlantic religious life. Based on twenty years of fieldwork, Todd Ramón Ochoa's masterful ethnography shows how orisá praise and everyday life have changed in revolutionary Cuba over two decades of economic hardship.Trade Review"Much more than a traditional ethnography, this work is an affective journey, one that marks the rhythms and sensations of everyday life in a home where Catholic saints, African gods, and the Cuban dead comingle with family, friends, and neighbors." * Journal of the American Academy of Religion *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Preface PART ONE 1 • The Ring and the Altar 2 • La Sociedad Africana, 1880–1940: Chacha Cairo among the Dead and the Santos-Orisás 3 • Cucusa Sáez and Her Children PART TWO 4 • 1999: Return 5 • A Meal for the Dead 6 • Opening 7 • Slaughter 8 • A Bembé for San Lázaro–Babalú Ayé PART THREE 9 • 2005: Loss 10 • A Hole to Fill 11 • Dear Elégua 12 • 2006: Decay 13 • Oyá PART FOUR 14 • 2009: Deceit 15 • Voices of the Dead 16 • 2012: Prohibition 17 • Lázaro M. 18 • Two Bembés PART FIVE 19 • 2014: Despair 20 • Sovereigns of Affliction Epilogue • 2018: Recovery Notes Bibliography Index

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Book Synopsisaeo Contributions by 60 international experts. aeo New sections on Afro--Caribbean, North America, and Japan among others. aeo Revisions and expansion of coverage of all major religions. aeo Synoptic index of religions and themes. aeo Coverage of gender and fundamentalism.Trade Review"This is a major expansion of the Penguin Dictionary of Religions, first published in 1984. Some 1400 articles offer cogent definitions often augmented by clear doctrinal or historical discussions. Two particularly useful features are the many cross references and the excellent bibliography, categorized by subject area, which runs to nearly 100 pages ......Recommended for both public and academic libraries." James F. DeRoche, Library Journal "The strength of the present work is its citation system, which leads readers to the precise topic they seek, even to page or chapter numbers. Recommended for general readers and for undergraduate and graduate students." ChoiceTable of ContentsIntroduction. Acknowledgements. The Dictionary A-Z. Maps. Bibliography. Synoptic Index.

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Book SynopsisThis work looks at Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, Chinese religions, Japanese religions, North American Indian religion, religions in Africa and in the Pacific, new religious movements, both in primal societies and in the West, and at Baha'is.Trade Review"It is good to see this classic volume reappear in an updated form. It belongs in the canon of standard works that anyone interested in the study of religion should posses. The updating of the original chapters was desirable and has been accomplished extremely well."Damien Keown, Royal Asiatic Society JournalTable of ContentsIntroduction: John R. Hinnells (SOAS, University of London). Section A: The Religions:. 1. Judaism: Alan Unterman (University of Manchester). 2. Christianity: Andrew Walls (University of Edinburgh). 3. Islam: Alford T. Welch (Michigan State University). 4. Zoroastrianism: Mary Boyce (SOAS, University of London). 5. Hinduism: Simon Weightman (SOAS, University of London). 6. Sikhism: W. Owen Cole (Chichester Institute of Higher Education). 7. Jainism: Kendall W. Folkert revised and expanded by John E. Cort (Denision University, Ohio). 8. Buddhism: L. S. Cousins (formerly University of Manchester). 9. Chinese Religions: Michael Saso (Beijing). 10. The Mystic Tradition in China: Michael Saso (Beijing). 11. Japanese Religions: David Reid (Tokyo University). 12. Religions in Primal Societies. i. Native North American Religions: Armin W. Geertz (University of Aarhus). ii. Pacific Religions: B. Colless and P. Donovan (Massey University). iii. African Religions: Aylward Shorter (Freelance Writer). iv. New Religious Movements in Primal Societies: Harold W. Turner (formerly Selly Oak College). 13. Modern Alternative Religions in the West: J. Gordon Melton (Institute for the Study of American Religion, Santa Barbara). 14. Baha'ism: Denis MacEoin: (formerly University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne). Section B: Cross Cultural Issues:. 15. Religion and Gender: Ursula King (University of Bristol). 16. Spirituality: Ursula King (University of Bristol). 17. The Study of Diaspora Religion: John R. Hinnells (SOAS, University of London). 18. African Diaspora Religion: Ossie Stuart (St Anthony's College, Oxford). 19. The Australian South Asian Diaspora: P. Billimoria (Deakin University). 20. The Religions of South Asian Communities in Britain: Kim Knott (University of Leeds). 21. The Religions of the South Asian Diaspora in Canada: Harold Coward (University of Victoria, British Columbia). 22. South Asian Religions in the United States: Raymond Brady Williams (Wabash College). 23. Comparative Reflections on South Asian Religion in International Migration: John R. Hinnells (SOAS, University of London). Index.

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Book Synopsisaeo Strong team of contributors with international reputations. aeo One of the first books in a rapidly expanding field, pulling together work from feminist theology and philosophy, and comparative religion.Trade Review"It is a rich and varied collection that is accompanied by full and informative bibliographies. Accessible to those with non-specialist knowledge, it will be of interest to any who are curious about altering perceptions of maleness and femaleness and 'genderedness' as an analytical category within religious studies as a whole." Esther D. Reed, University of Exeter Table of ContentsIntroduction:. Gender and the Study of Religion: Ursula King. Part I: Theoretical Reflections: . 1. The Epistemological Significance of Feminist Research in Religion: June O'Connor. 2. Feminist Anthropology and the Gendering of Religious Studies: Rosalind Shaw. 3. Religion and the Hermeneutics of Gender: Erin White. 4. Disputing the Sacred: Some Theoretical Approaches to Problems of Gender and Religion: Penelope Margaret Magee. 5. God and Gender: Some Reflections on Women's Invocation of the Divine: Morny Joy. 6. The Return of the Goddess: Psychoanalytic Reflections on the Shift from Theology to Thealogy: Naomi Goldenberg. 7. Religion and Magic in the Modern Cults of the Great Goddess: Donate Pahnke. 8. Spirituality, Consciousness and Gender Identification: A Neo-Feminist Perspective: Felicity Edwards. Part II: Empirical Investigations:. 9. Women Researching, Women Researched: Gender as an Issue in the Empirical Study of Religion: Kim Knott. 10. A Question of Identity: Women Scholars and the Study of Religion: Ursula King. 11. Women's Studies of the Christian Tradition: New Perspectives: Kari Borresen. 12. Women and New Religious Movements in Africa: Rosalind I. J. Hackett. 13. Liberator or Pacifier: Religion and Women in Japan: Marilyn F. Nefsy. Notes on Contributors.

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Book Synopsisaeo This is the first one volume history of religion in Britain. aeo Accessibly written by leading scholars. aeo Covers, England, Wales, Scotland and the British Empire. aeo Covers all Christian denominations, pre--Christian paganism, pagan revivals and the multiplicity of beliefs in twentieth century Britain.Trade Review"The syllabus requirements for religious education in schools, and the appetites of TV programme-makers, are increasingly emphasising the place of religion as part of the general cultural inheritance. This is a book which will be a valued resource for their interests. But it is also a collection from which Christians themselves will derive insights into a religion which is inherently historical. This collection is impressive in the quality of the essays. There are some really outstanding contributions to interpretation here." Church Times "With suggestions for further reading and a chronology which itself runs to ten pages, this is as complete a single-volume history of the subject as one would wish to have. One ends the book wishing to applaud, and not merely because the Editors' aims have been brilliantly achieved." Chesterton Review "It provides a very welcome series of scholarly insights which will be of substantial value to the church historian." EHRTable of ContentsList of Plates. Notes on Contributors. Preface. Introduction: Sheridan Gilley and W. J. Sheils. Part I: Conversion and Christianity:. 1. Religion in Roman Britain: Martin Henig (University of Oxford). 2. Religion in Anglo-Saxon England: Gerald Bonner (University of Durham). 3. From the Conquest to the Black Death: Rosalind Hill (University of London). 4. Piety in the Later Middle Ages: Norman Tanner (University of Oxford). 5. Medieval Wales and the Reformation: Glanmor Williams (University of Swansea). 6. Religious Life in Medieval Scotland: Michael Lynch (University of Edinburgh). Part II: Reform, Revival and Enlightenment:. 7. The Church in Scotland from the Reformation to Disruption: James K. Cameron. 8. Reformed Religion in England: W. J. Sheils (University of York). 9. Anglicanism in Stuart and Hanoverian England: Ian Green (University of Belfast). 10. Radical Sects and Dissenting Churches,1600-1750: Michael Mullet (University of Lancaster). 11. Rational Religion in England from Herbert of Cherbury to William Paley: David Pailin (University of Manchester). 12. Catholicism in England from the Reformation to the Relief Acts: W. J. Sheils (University of York). 13. Evangelical Revival in Eighteenth-Century Britain: W. R. Ward (University of Durham). Part III: Industrialization, Empire and Identity: . 14. Church and State since 1800: Edward Norman (Christchurch College, Canterbury). 15. The Church of England in the Nineteenth Century: Sheridan Gilley (University of Durham). 16. Religious Life in Industrial Britain, 1830-1914: David Hempton (University of Belfast). 17. Hebrews Hellenized?: English Evangelical Nonconformity and Culture, 1840-1940: Clyde Binfield (University of Sheffield). 18. The Roman Catholic Church in England, 1780-1940: Sheridan Gilley (University of Durham). 19. Religion and Community in Scotland and Wales since 1800: Keith Robbins (University of Lancaster). 20. British Religion and the Wider World, Mission and Empire: Peter C. Williams (University of Bristol). 21. Secularists and Nationalists: Edward Royle (University of York). Part IV: The Twentieth Century: . 22. The Jewish Community in Britain: Jonathan Campbell, University of Lampeter). 23. Religious Life Between the Wars: Stuart Mews (University of Lancaster). 24. The Christian Churches in England since the War: Ecumenism and Social Concern: Alan Suggate (University of Durham). 25. Religious Pluralism in Modern Britain: Paul Badham (University of Lampeter). 26. Secularization and the Future: Alan Gilbert (University of Sydney). Chronology. Selected Further Reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisAn introduction to Christian spirituality. This text includes an analysis of the relationship between theology and spirituality, focusing on five major themes and offers coverage of the Christian spiritual tradition, including Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Protestantism and Evangelicalism.Trade Review"This book ably and accurately provides information that will help those unfamiliar with the Christian tradition to engage with classical texts on spirituality." Amy M. Hollywood, Professor of Religion, Dartmouth College, New Hampshire "This study really is an 'introduction' and is well suited to the needs of undergraduate students in universities, theological colleges, and seminaries. The book will also be useful for adult education courses, and will appeal in addition to a more general readership. There is a need for a reliable, basic, introductory textbook like this that doesn't make too many assumptions about its readers." Philip Sheldrake, Vice-Principal, Sarum College, Salisbury "I am sure that this book will have a wide readership, particularly among theologians and students of theology. It should also have a wider readership among Christians more generally. Existing works of spirituality often have limited scope and make assumptions about their readers' knowledge. The author's concern to fill gaps and provide adequate explanations and contexts is admirable." Robert Swanson, Reader in Medieval History, University of Birmingham "[The book's] considerable advantage in accessibility and in the structured ordering of ideas makes it ideal as an undergraduate textbook or a committed interest-reader's introduction. It includes frequent invitations and injunctions to read and explore more deeply. The book is written with superb clarity and very considerable breadth of reference...As a working textbook, this has everything one could wish for: interaction with the reader in the form of suggested tasks and internal cross-references; good management of the interrelationship with theology and clarification of terms; window-box texts; a glossary; a list of websites. For university courses and libraries this is a must. For enquirers it is a scholarly and accessible guide." International Journal of Children's Spirituality "This book is highly recommended as a college or seminary textbook on the spiritual life or sanctification. In addition, anyone interested in delving into the tradition of Christian spirituality will find this a useful guide." Bibliotheca SacraTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. How to Use this Book. Part I: Introduction:. 1. Defining 'Spirituality'. 2. Defining 'Christian Spirituality'. 3. Clarifying Terms: Mysticism and Spirituality. Part II: Types of Christian Spirituality: . 4. Spirituality, Theology and Personality. 5. Denominational Considerations. 6. Attitudes to the World, Culture and History. Part III: Theological Foundations for Spirituality: Basic Issues: . 7. The Nature of Theology. 8. The Relation of Theology and Spirituality. Part IV: Theological Foundations for Spirituality: Case Studies:. 9. Creation. Human Nature and Destiny. 10. The Trinity. Incarnation. 11. Redemption. 12. Resurrection. 13. Consummation. 14. For Further Reading. Part V: Biblical Images and Christian Spirituality:. 15. The Bible as a Resource for Spirituality. 16. Biblical Images and Spirituality. Part VI: Faces, Places and Spaces: Visualization and Spatialization in Christian Spirituality:. 17. The Visualization of the Divine. 18. Telling the Story: Faith and Life. 19. The Rhythm of Faith: Structuring Time. 20. Spiritual Geography: Structuring Space. Part VII: Christian Spirituality: Engaging the Tradition:. 21. Conclusion: Where Next?. 22. Christian Spirituality: Internet Resources. Glossary of Terms. Sources of Citations. For Further Reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe concept of heaven has had an enormous impact on popular culture in the west, both religious and secular. This engaging and highly accessible book by one of today's best-known Christian writers explores the history of heaven, from its origins in biblical writings right up to the modern day.Trade Review‘Alister McGrath invariably combines enormous scholarship with an accessible and engaging style. This book is no exception - a splendid survey of a centrally important subject, covering theology and the arts with equal grace and clarity.’ Dr Rowan Williams, The Archbishop of Canterbury "Bringing together literature, theology, politics and the arts, this fascinating book traces the remarkable influence that the idea of heaven has had - and continues to have - on western culture." Publishing News "It is delightfully lucid and insightful...Recommended for large public libraries as well as academic libraries offering a variety of Christian religious courses." Joyce Smothers, Library Journal "Though clearly a scholar, McGrath transcends the drone of the academic dissertation, offering an accessible and thorough narrative. Using the rich visual imagery of heaven, McGrath has created a fascinating kaleidoscope for viewing the evolution of Christian worship." Publishers Weekly "Pick of the week...It's an ambitious, immensely accessible, erudite and entertaining exploration of the way the idea of heaven has been constructed over the centuries." The Saturday AgeTable of ContentsList of Illustrations viii Preface ix 1 The City: The New Jerusalem 1 Images and the Christian Faith 2 The City of Jerusalem in the Old Testament 7 The City of Jerusalem in the New Testament 10 Augustine of Hippo on the Two Cities 13 The Heavenly City and Medieval Spirituality 17 Pearl and the New Jerusalem 25 John Bunyan’s Heavenly City 29 The Shape of the Heavenly Body 33 2 The Garden: Heaven as Paradise 39 The Quest for the Garden of Eden 41 Paradise in the Bible 43 Early Christian Views of Paradise 47 The Millennium as Paradise 52 Medieval Visions of Paradise 54 Dante’s Divine Comedy 58 Paradise and the Enclosed Garden 65 Heaven as the Restoration of Eden 70 3 Opening the Gates of Heaven: Atonement and Paradise 75 Christ the Victor 79 Christ the Hero 83 Christ the Harrower of Hell 88 Christ the Redeemer: Atonement as Satisfaction 94 Christ the Lover: Atonement and the Enkindling of Love 96 The Institutionalization of Atonement: The Church as the Gateway to Heaven 101 The Privatization of Atonement: Personal Faith as the Gateway to Heaven 106 4 The Signposting of Heaven: Signals of Transcendence 111 Nature as an Anticipation of Heaven 113 The Ascent of Love and the Intimation of Heaven 117 Experience and the Sense of Heaven: Herbert and Traherne 120 Nature as a Signpost of Heaven: Romanticism and Transcendentalism 124 Longing for Heaven: C. S. Lewis 130 5 The Consolation of Heaven 137 Reunion with Family in Heaven in Early Roman Christianity 139 Heaven as an Encounter with God 141 Heaven as a Dream: Feuerbach, Marx, and Freud 146 Heaven as an Encounter with Loved Ones 150 African American Spirituals 155 6 Journey’s End: Heaven as the Goal of the Christian Life 161 The Concept of Spirituality 162 The Hope of Heaven: Theological Foundations 164 The Appeal to Worship: Heaven on Earth 166 Feasting in the Kingdom 168 Journeying to the Promised Land 171 Returning to the Homeland from Exile 175 Seeing God Face to Face 181 Works Consulted 185 Index 192

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Book SynopsisMaking the Gods Speak presents a comprehensive accounting for the processes of divine revelations. Focusing the bulk of his analysis on spirit-writing, Vincent Goossaert offers a ritual-centered framework to study revelation in Chinese cultural history and comparatively with the revelatory practices of other religious traditions.Trade ReviewGoossaert offers a compelling narrative about how spirit-writing and revealed texts were significant forces shaping the religious life of late imperial China…Excellent. -- Natasha Heller * Material Religion *

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