Spirituality and religious experience Books

Book SynopsisBecome inspired, find your voice, and create work that matters.Why are human beings driven to make?It’s as if we collectively intuited, long before science gave us the language, that the universe bends toward entropy, and every act of creation on our part is an act of defiance in the face of that evolving disorder.When we pick up a paintbrush, or compose elements through our camera viewfinders, or press fingers into wet clay to wrestle form from a shapeless lump, we are bending things back toward Order and wrestling them from Chaos.But making things is often not enough.We also want the things we make to be filled with meaning. We’re each trying to describe what we know about life, to create a collective sense of “safety in numbers.” When we reach the end of our traditional descriptive powers, it’s time to weave collective meaning from poetry, painting, writing, dancing, photographing, filmmaking, storytelling, singing, animating, designing, performing, carving, sculpting, and a million other ways we daily create Order out of the Chaos and share it with each other for comfort.On this journey we need a creative philosophy which will help us find our voice, discover our message, deal with the responses to our work, maintain inspiration, and stay mentally healthy and motivated creators as we strive to find “the meaning in the making.”Table of Contents Chapter 1: Order Chapter 2: Logos Chapter 3: Breath Chapter 4: Voice Chapter 5: Ego Chapter 6: Control Chapter 7: Attention Chapter 8: Envy Chapter 9: Critique Chapter 10: Feel Chapter 11: Shadows Chapter 12: Meaning Chapter 13: Time Chapter 14: Benediction

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Book SynopsisA brilliant introduction to prayer' Richard Rohr, Author of Everything BelongsOne of America's most beloved spiritual leaders and the New York Times bestselling author of The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything and Jesus: A Pilgrimage teaches anyone to converse with God in this comprehensive guide to prayer.What do we need to learn? That prayer changes usand so changes the world we live in; that God is always there before us; that it''s God''s action that makes the difference. Practical, comprehensive, and above all God-centered, this book is a deeply valuable companion for growing in faith.' Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of CanterburyIn The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, Father James Martin included a chapter on communicating with God. Now, he expands those thoughts in this profound and practical handbook. Learning to Pray explains what prayer is, what to expect from praying, how to do it, and how it can transform us when we make it a regular practice in our lives.A trusted Trade Review‘Prayer, Martin says, is building a relationship with God in the way other relationships are built: through conversing, listening, and spending time with one another. . . . With Martin's guidance, interested readers may see prayer as both the most natural yet transcendent thing in the world.’ Booklist ‘Personal, insightful, honest, practical, expansive, enriching, freeing, hopeful—these words only begin to describe this excellent book about prayer. Learning to Pray deserves to be in the hands and heart of anyone intent on engaging with the unfolding path of prayer.’Joyce Rupp, author of Anchors for the Soul ‘The life of prayer is essential for the believer. And yet so many people feel frightened by prayer. Fear not! James Martin has written a brilliant introduction to prayer, which will help you encounter the Living God, who wants to encounter you! Richard Rohr, author of Everything Belongs

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Book SynopsisHappiness is not an achievement. It is your nature. - OshoHappiness is the twelfth title in the Osho bestselling Insights for a New Way of Living series, and the first new title in the series since 2017.The popular Insights for a New Way of Living challenges readers to examine and break free of the conditioned belief systems and the prejudices that limit their capacity to live life in all its richness. The books shine light on beliefs and attitudes that prevent individuals from being their true selves. The text is an artful mix of compassion and humor, and readers are encouraged to confront what they would most like to avoid, which in turn provides the key to true insight and power.

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Book SynopsisCelebrate Celtic symbolism, mythology, and magic throughout the Wheel of the Year with this powerful book of tree rituals Includes monthly rituals and ceremonies based on the Celtic tree calendar and Ogham alphabet

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Book SynopsisAn 365-day anthology of readings from one of the most influential writers of all time, George MacDonald, compiled by CS Lewis himself.MacDonald was a major Christian writer of the late nineteenth, early twentieth centuries. He influenced nearly everyone who was a major twentieth century writer (including Lewis Carroll, WH Auden, JRR Tolkien, Walter de la Mare, and CS Lewis. Not only was he a pioneer in the fantasy fiction genre, laying the path for people like Tolkien to write Lord of the Rings, but also a major Christian thinker, which influenced Lewis profoundly.Lewis, in fact, wrote that MacDonald was his master', and said I know hardly any other writer who seems to be closer, or more continually close, to the Spirit of Christ Himself.'These words will challenge and uplift you, and illuminate the faith which underpins all of CS Lewis's popular and enduring writing.Trade Review‘I know hardly any other writer who seems to be closer, or more continually close, to the Spirit of Christ Himself.’- C.S. Lewis on George MacDonald

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Book SynopsisWhy are we here? What''s the point of existence? On the ''big questions'' of meaning and purpose, Western thought has been dominated by the dichotomy of traditional religion and secular atheism. In this pioneering work, Philip Goff argues that it is time to move on from both God and atheism. Through an exploration of contemporary cosmology and cutting-edge philosophical research on consciousness, Goff argues for cosmic purpose: the idea that the universe is directed towards certain goals, such as the emergence of life.In contrast to religious thinkers, Goff argues that the traditional God is a bad explanation of cosmic purpose. Instead, he explores a range of alternative possibilities for accounting for cosmic purpose, from the speculation that we live in a computer simulation to the hypothesis that the universe itself is a conscious mind. Goff scrutinizes these options with analytical rigour, laying the foundations for a new paradigm of philosophical enquiry into the middle ground between God and atheism. Ultimately, Goff outlines a way of living in hope that cosmic purpose is still unfolding, involving political engagement and a non-literalist interpretation of traditional religion.Trade Reviewfascinating...an enjoyable read * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *It takes a sort of cosmic chutzpah to announce that your book is going to explain the purpose of the universe, and that predisposed me in its favour before I even began to read the text. But what I enjoyed most was the author's calm and level-headed approach to that fundamental question: Why? I suppose it's the question most young people begin with when they start to develop intellectual curiosity, as well as being the source of every system of religion and of science as well. Philip Goff explains that 'purpose' is not some emotional human need with little ultimate importance, but a quality that seems to be built into the very nature of things. It's nothing less than thrilling to follow his argument, and to regain that sense of connectedness that's so important not just to our well-being, but to our very survival. * Philip Pullman *This book is a tour de force. If you have ever wondered what the point is in living, whether the universe itself has any purpose (and if it does, whether that is best explained by the existence of God), why the universe exists at all for that matter, what the nature of consciousness is and how it fits into the universe as a whole, this is the book for you. Written in an engaging and easy to follow style, Goff presents a highly original, unified, and thought-provoking world view. It is rare to read anything that makes one seriously question one's basic assumptions about reality. Goff's book does just that. The result is something head spinning. I cannot recommend it highly enough. * Michael Tye, Professor of Philosophy, The University of Texas at Austin *Am I here by accident? Is there a purpose? This is contentious territory in science and philosophy. Goff offers a lucid and riveting account of key ideas, data, and theories. He then, with a rare audacity, blazes new trails. It is fascinating terrain to explore, and Goff proves an expert and genial guide. * Donald Hoffman, Professor of Cognitive Science, University of California, Irvine *The best metaphysical pictures help us fulfill three aims: give us a sense of the world and how we as human beings fit within it, provide an ethical guide, and help us make some peace with our condition. Philip Goff's brilliant new book Why? The Purpose of the Universe does all three by making a compelling case for teleological cosmopsychism. With this unique position that is neither God nor atheism, Goff gives us a glimpse of the immense creative potential of the universe. He outlines an attractive picture of spiritual belonging and practice in a godless world that is far from nihilistic. * Helen De Cruz, Danforth Chair in the Humanities, Saint Louis University *It might sound surprising, but the progress of physics, astronomy and cosmology in recent decades has raised important questions about the meaning and purpose in the universe, and of the universe. "Nature has been kinder to us than we had any right to expect", wrote Freeman Dyson in 1971, "it almost seems as if the universe must in some sense have known that we were coming". So, what now? Philip Goff has provided a discussion of these important issues that is informed, accessible, original and entertaining. This is a book worth reading, and worth thinking hard about. * Luke Barnes, Lecturer in Astronomy and Cosmology, Western Sydney University *Why? is a terrific book. For a work in philosophy, it is unusually fun to read. Goff clearly has a gift for making rigorous philosophy accessible to a broad audience. Part of his genius is the way he weaves his main arguments into a narrative about his own intellectual journey. * Paul Draper, Professor of Philosophy, Purdue University *Why? is simultaneously accessible and profound, comprehensible to the general reader and full of novel ideas sure to challenge professional philosophers. Goff offers an intriguingly weird vision of the cosmos, neither atheistic nor orthodox, pushing beyond the boundaries of both ordinary scientific thinking and ordinary religious apologetics. * Eric Schwitzgebel, Professor of Philosophy, University of California, Riverside *A brilliant book! Goff takes us to the edges of physics and philosophy to make a compelling case for cosmic purpose. The presentation is clear, innovative, and provocative. True to form, Goff's ideas are not anchored to convention or tradition, but he instead lights a torch on an original path of discovery. I came away feeling that Goff's work contributes to the purpose of the universe in a profound and beautiful way. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the big question of why we are here and what life might be about. * Josh Rasmussen, Associate Professor of Philosophy. Azusa Pacific University *What's the meaning of life? Raw science tells us we live in an uncaring universe, devoid of purpose and oblivious to the wants and needs of humans. Or does it? In this new book, Goff explores purpose in the cosmos, not a purpose rooted in religion, but in a conscious fabric of the universe itself. Whilst Goff and I have argued over the implications of cosmological fine-tuning and the statistics of typing monkeys, the contents will certainly make you think about life and its meaning. * Geraint Lewis, Professor of Astrophysics, Sydney Institute for Astronomy, the University of Sydney *One of the most persuasive panpsychists. * Stephen Fry *Why? makes a succinct, ambitious case for a new, secular view of cosmic purpose. * Isaac Randel, Foreword Reviews *Why? is designed to appeal both to a wide audience who know little about philosophy or physics and to academics who know the relevant technical terms and literature... It is an exciting and challenging book. * Richard Swinburne, TLS *An ingenious and accessible discussion of a big question we'll never answer - the reason for our existence... a rich book... It'll turn quite a few heads. * Galen Strawson, The Guardian *I would strongly recommend this book as a clear, well-argued, and undogmatic example of analytical philosophy at its best. * Keith Ward, Church Times *An original and fascinating book. * Wouter van Noort, NRC Handelsblad *Table of Contents1: What's the point of living? 2: Why science points to purpose 3: Why consciousness points to purpose 4: Why the omni-God probably doesn't exist 5: Cosmic purpose without God 6: A conscious universe 7: Living with purpose

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Book SynopsisIt has been suggested that ''spirituality'' has become a word that ''can define an era''. Why? Because paradoxically, alongside a decline in traditional religious affiliations, the growing interest in spirituality and the use of the word in a variety of contexts is a striking aspect of contemporary western cultures. Indeed, spirituality is sometimes contrasted attractively with religion, although this is problematic and implies that religion is essentially dogma, moralism, institutions, buildings, and hierarchies. The notion of spirituality expresses the fact that many people are driven by goals that concern more than material satisfaction. Broadly, it refers to the deepest values and sense of meaning by which people seek to live. Sometimes these values are conventionally religious. Sometimes they are associated with what is understood as ''the sacred'' in a broader sense - that is, of ultimate rather than merely instrumental importance. This Very Short Introduction, written by one of the most eminent scholars and writers on spirituality, explores the historical foundations of the thought and considers how it came to have the significance it is developing today. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewDeserves reading and referring to again and again. * The Reader *written by an eminent scholar in the field ... This is a clearly written and helpful book. * Rima Devereaux, Spirituality *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; CONCLUSION

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Book SynopsisTeresa of Avila presents herself to us as a woman originally caught between her passion for the things of the world and an equal passion for God. Born to a marginalised family in sixteenth-century Spain, at the age of 20 she entered a Carmelite convent, surrendering totally to God and pursuing a life of contemplative prayer and intimate union with God. Teresa understood prayer as a living relationship with God, and wrote several books describing her discoveries and revelations about the Christ-centred life, including her Life and The Way of Perfection, from which the readings in this collection are drawn. She was canonized in 1622 and made a Doctor of the Church in 1970. Living Water offers short extracts from St Teresa's writings, arranged for daily devotional reading. First published in 1985, this wonderful collection has brought comfort and spiritual direction to tens of thousands of people around the world. This new edition curated by Fr Luke Penkett, archivist and librarian of

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Book SynopsisJudith A. Merkle is Professor of Religious Studies at Niagara University, USA.Trade ReviewJudith Merkle has written a nuanced and thought-provoking book about the future of Christian faith and practice in a secular age. ... Taylor is undoubtedly a brilliant and nuanced interpreter of the complex contours of modernity. * Studies in Christian Ethics *In this signal volume, Judith A. Merkle invites us to consider the features of a renewed Christianity not in flight from the earthly city, the saeculum or secular world, but through an engagement that meets the best of human aspirations, pointing humanity and all of creation to their proper end. Merkle identifies the issues that Christians must grapple with if the church is to renew its mission in a changing world and avoid the useless resuscitation of obsolete forms of religiosity. A must-read. * Catherine E. Clifford, Saint Paul University, Canada *Combining erudite scholarship with lucid prose, Judith A. Merkle provides an elegant account of the search for the transcendent in the modern world. Her interdisciplinary analyses illuminate the function of faith and spirituality in a climate of contingency. In this ambitious book, Merkle deftly choreographs a new asceticism for our day. * Kristin E. Heyer, Boston College, USA *Merkle’s analysis of secularity deepens our appreciation of its profound influence on religious and nonreligious people alike. She explores how our secular context requires reconsideration of our understanding of church and salvation, and the development of new spiritual and religious practices. This clearly written, creative book is theologically insightful and a rich resource for pastoral practice and reflection on one’s own life of discipleship. * Christopher P. Vogt, St. John’s University, USA *Table of ContentsList of Abbreviations and Documents Cited Introduction Part I Foundations 1. Silent Music and the Dance: A New Moment in Christian Spirituality 2. The Human Partner: the Steps of Modernity 3. The Step of Faith: Searching for the Face of God in Modern Life 4. The Dance of Religion: Do We Need It? Part II. Dancing to the Music: Discipleship 5. The Way of Jesus and Human Flourishing: Salvation and Atonement 6. The Eclipse of Desire and the Freedom to Dance 7. The Desire to Dance: Toward a New Asceticism 8. Being Music Makers: Church and Community in a New Era 9. The Scaffoldings of the Future Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisStrengthen your spiritual, mental, and emotional health and reach your most audacious goals with three simple but power-packed words—from the New York Times bestselling author of Win the Day.“A practical framework to be the kind of thoughtful, helpful force for good you always wanted to be.”—Carey Nieuwhof, founder of the Art of Leadership AcademyThe best predictor of success in life, in love, and in leadership is your proficiency at please, sorry, and thanks. Those three words are the foundation of all healthy relationships and successful careers. Those three words are the only ceiling on achieving your dreams. Those three words will determine how happy you are.With his trademark blend of personal stories, scientific and historical references, and biblical insight, Pastor Mark Batterson shows how you can change your world with your words:• A timely please can help you unlock the rule of reciprocity for greater results, discover the power of “we is greater than me,” and honor others above yourself.• A sincere sorry can lead you to mend broken relationships, strengthen connections through being radically vulnerable, and better understand the degrees of forgiveness.• A heartfelt thanks paves the way toward a resilient mindset of gratitude and an expectancy to see God move on your behalf.Whether you’re launching out into a new phase of life or navigating long-established complexities, it''s time to harness the power of those three transformative words and let them propel you wherever God leads you to go.

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Book SynopsisHas life gone the way you thought it would go? Have your senses of safety, security, and confidence been replaced with fear, doubt, anxiety, and even depression and despair?

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Book SynopsisForgiveness simply means you accept the person as he is, you still love him the way he is. - OshoForgiveness is the thirteenth title in the Osho bestselling Insights for a New Way of Living series.The popular Insights for a New Way of Living challenges readers to examine and break free of the conditioned belief systems and the prejudices that limit their capacity to live life in all its richness. The books shine light on beliefs and attitudes that prevent individuals from being their true selves. The text is an artful mix of compassion and humor, and readers are encouraged to confront what they would most like to avoid, which in turn provides the key to true insight and power.

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Book Synopsis''This is a book that should be on every meditator''s bookshelf'' - Dr Jim LockardAn accessible, insightful, user-friendly guide to meditation, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy sustained and meaningful meditation practiceMeditation is an ancient practice that has brought peace and clarity to people from every time, culture and place. Its benefits - a sense of calm, greater knowledge of self, better health - are as appealing to the modern world as they were to the ancient. In this beginner''s guide to meditation, author Patrick Harbula provides readers with everything they need to know in order to experience deep meditation.Readers will learn: - The history of meditation, both Eastern and Western- The benefits of meditation for the mind, body, and spirit- Different forms of meditation practice- Supportive practices to enhance the benefits of meditation in daily living.- Simple ways to begin meditation immediately, and morTrade ReviewMeditation is a very simple process which can be done in many ways. Patrick Harbula provides a guide which can be read as a basic primer or as a deep dive into all things meditation. This is a book that should be on every meditator's bookshelf and be dogeared, marked up, and well-read -- Dr Jim Lockard, author of Creating The Beloved Community: A Handbook for Spiritual LeadershipIn Meditation Patrick Harbula offers perhaps the most inclusive explanation and application of meditation I have ever read. He has taken what is generally perceived as an Eastern practice and made it 'user-friendly' for the western mind. This is an exquisite and transparent handbook for anyone who seeks to explore the countless benefits found in a life grounded in meditation. I encourage you to allow Patrick to be your personal guide on the journey to the place you never really left - your oneness with Life. He knows - in real time - from whence he speaks -- Dr Dennis Merritt Jones, bestselling author of The Art of Abundance and The Art of UncertaintyPatrick Harbula's presentation of a wide variety of meditation styles and techniques makes this book a unique presentation on the subject. Particularly insightful is the Helpful Hints section, which offers practical and cutting edge strategies for effortlessly stilling the mind. The Chapter on Supportive Spiritual Practices also makes this book a seminal and complete treatment for spiritual growth as well as user friendly tool for beginners and seasoned meditators alike -- Dr Ken Gordon, Spiritual Director of Centers for Spiritual LivingPatrick Harbula has created a beautiful introduction to the novice meditator. Using gentle humor, personal stories, and practical suggestions, he guides the reader through complex ideas such as enlightenment, spiritual bypass, dealing with expectations and sustaining an enjoyable and meaningful meditation practice -- Dr Edward Viljoen, author of The Power of MeditationWhile explaining the deep, historical roots of meditation, Patrick makes the practice very accessible to the beginner and highly motivational for the long-time meditator. This is one of the most comprehensive books on Meditation available to us today. Benefits, approaches and specific practices are skillfully explained in his approachable, personal style, and I recommend it wholeheartedly -- Rev Dr Maxine Kaye, author of Alive and AgelessEncyclopedic in scope, this useful compendium is not just for newcomers on the spiritual path. Author Patrick Harbula covers every aspect of meditation from its history to its benefits to the how-tos of more than two dozen practices. A lifetime of experience with Eastern and Western contemplative traditions informs these pages, packed with useful tips on choosing a method, what to expect and establishing a daily practice. Meditation fundamentals like breathwork, mindfulness and visualization are explained in clear, accessible terms -- Joan Duncan Oliver, author of Buddhism: An Introduction to the Buddha's Life, Teachings, and Practices

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Book SynopsisLuigi Gioia''s Say it to God was chosen for the 2018 Archbishop of Canterbury''s Lent Book--no mean feat for a first time author. In this new book, Gioia moves on to show the art of contemplation. But he points out from the start that contemplation is not a more advanced way of praying but a greater awareness of the presence of God. The defining mark of this awareness is that we become more and more aware of God''s presence, a unique kind of inner peace and joy which has been described by spiritual authors with a variety of arresting and often poetic images. What Gioia describes is not some kind of spiritual wonderland; for it does not dispense us from struggles and doubts and often the non-evidence of God. It brings a peace which coexists with doubt, a peace which can flourish in the middle of struggles, a joy that we can discover even in suffering.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Unexpected harmony PART ONE: FEELINGS The gift of feeling Irrelevant feelings Frustrating feelings Silent rest Restless desire Mindfulness Arresting awareness A strange ability PART TWO: JOHN Empty hands Playful encounters Soft spot Chasing the fugitive God's touch Body and flesh Acknowledging stillness Contemplating the light Struggling to see The inner nagging PART THREE: QUIETISM Sue the bastard! Embracing history A new sense of identity What did you expect? EPILOGUE Yours is the night The teacher within Acknowledgements A Note on the Author

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Book SynopsisWhat keeps women from feeling and being their best? For years, Joyce has been helping women better identify emotional barriers and physical, mental, and spiritual obstacles in their lives. Now she provides another answer: Confidence.Our society has an insecurity epidemic. Women in particular compensate by pretending to be secure--a common response--which only leads to feelings of shame. Lack of self-confidence causes great difficulty in relationships of all kinds, and can even lead to divorce.In Confidently You, Joyce explores the characteristics of a woman with confidence, which include a woman who knows she is loved, who refuses to live in fear, and who does not live by comparisons. Joyce explains that confidence stems from being positive in your actions and living honestly, but most importantly from having faith in God and in ourselves.Derived from material previously published in The Confident Woman.

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Book SynopsisThis is a must-read for all who''d like to strengthen their connection to the Infinite Mind in order to enjoy a free-flow of abundance, personal blessings, intuitive knowledge and the strong sense of well-being that results from a solid connection.Written more than a century ago, this classic work inspired a generation, selling more than two million copies. It is thought to be the original work of inspirational writing that led to such best-sellers as Think and Grow Rich, and The Power of Positive Thinking. The author, Ralph Waldo Trine, explains that there is only One Life, which he called Infinite Spirit, that underlies, supports and informs all reality. Infinite Spirit takes on the characteristics we ourselves either consciously or subconsciously assume.The result is that we wittingly or unwittingly create ourselves as well as the circumstances and conditions of our lives. If you''ve never read In Tune with the Infinite, you are in for a profound experience and perhaps a revelation. You''ll also find priceless instruction on how to ascend to a life of joy and fulfillment that you may have thought possible only in your dreams.

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Book SynopsisIn Greater, Pastor Steven Furtick challenged us to dream bigger, start smaller, and ignite God’s vision for our lives. In this devotional designed for daily guidance, you’ll begin your journey toward the greater life God wants for you.  Over the next forty days of teaching, scripture readings, and prayer, your life will change. You’ll find the confidence to believe that nothing is impossible with God, the clarity to see what He’s calling you toward, and the courage to take your next step. Dream bigger. Start smaller. Ignite God’s vision for your life.

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Book SynopsisNew ways to heal the spirit during the most challenging times.Traci Rhoades, author of Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost, continues to find profound beauty and endless insights in her spiritual wanderings among church traditions. In this new book, Rhoades encourages readers to explore practices – some ancient and others unconventional – that offer solace for those times when ‘the bottom drops out.’ Sharing what she’s learned about God, Rhoades shakes off the limits of denominational boundaries, making this book particularly valuable for younger Christians or those who are longing to take a deeper dive into their faith.Trade ReviewPraise for Shaky Ground: "Rhoades’s book is refreshing in that instead of writing decisively from a certain church corner, she reminds us that, for those of us who follow Christ and believe in him for salvation from sins, we are all part of the Church."—Englewood Review of Books"Traci Rhoades's *Shaky Ground* acknowledges the uncomfortable place we Christians find ourselves in in the modern world and how the timeless love of God applies today more than ever. Traci weaves hope in her words and a vision of a future for the church as it’s always existed: in the uncomfortable places where people seek meaning, understanding, and purpose, even in the middle of the most uncomfortable places of life." —Anna Fitch Courie, author of the Christ Walk series“Traci points out fresh facets of her ever-growing faith, practices, and disciplines different from those she learned as a child. Her discoveries have not taken the place of her childhood faith but beautifully enhanced and strengthened it.” —John Blase, poet, and author of *Know When to Hold ‘Em: The High Stakes Game of Fatherhood*

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Book SynopsisDo You Believe? Today we're flooded with opinions and ideas. And they all might be interesting, but are they true? Would you die for them? Benjamin Myers re-introduces the Apostles' Creed. He helps us to see how difficult and counter-cultural the Creed really is. It doesn't give us sweet, empty words. It's a faith that demands we die so that we might live. In the early church many converts died for their faith. So they needed to have a good idea what they might die for! Early church pastors and theologians used the Apostles' Creed as the essential guide to the basics of the Christian life. The Apostles' Creed has united Christians from different times, different places, and different traditions. The truths proclaimed in the Creed are eternal. Will you trust them?

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Book SynopsisJay Hulme is an award-winning transgender poet, performer, educator and speaker. In late 2019, his fascination with old church buildings turned into a life-changing encounter with the God he had never believed in, and he was baptised in the Anglican church. In this new poetry collection, Jay details his journey through faith and baptism during an unprecedented world-wide pandemic. As he finds God in the ruined factories and polluted canals of his home city, Jonah is heckled over etymology, angels appear in tube stations, and Jesus sits atop a multi-story car park. Cathedrals are trans, trans people are cathedrals, and amidst it all God reaches out to meet us exactly where we are. Jay’s poetry explores belief in the modern world and offers a perspective on queer faith that will appeal not only to Christians, but young members of the LGBT+ community who are interested in faith but unsure of where to start.Trade Review'Jay's work not only gives voice and movement to his own story but also to our collective experience. It also, at times, made me laugh my tea down my nose.' -- Kate Bottley'The living God works miracles today, and touches people today. As the pandemic filled the world, Jay found life everywhere, in God. He celebrates life everywhere, and he looks plainly and unafraid at death, and he lives in the mystery of things. These will be the gifts of this book to you. Life everywhere, the miraculous life of the living God who will touch you, too, through this man's words.' -- Paul Bayes

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Book SynopsisThis booklet offers an unique presentation of the unfolding of our universe. It interweaves the insights of contemporary science with Christian faith, and reveals the divine orchestration of the Creation Story in a dramatic, fresh and appealing way. Part One offers a brief background to the new story of creation which has emerged over the past century with the discovery of the expanding universe. We now know that the universe is 13.8 billion years old. Part Two takes the reader through thirty stages of the development of the cosmos and of our Earth from the big bang to the present day. Each stage is succinctly outlined and offers material for prayerful pondering.Trade Review“This very accessible book is strongly commended as a means for Christians to explore the cosmological context…of vital issues…if we are to be faithful to our Christian calling.” Methodist Recorder * Methodist Recorder *“…this new book may well be one of the most effective that he has written…packed with information and insight.” Irish Catholic * The Irish Catholic *

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Book SynopsisThe summer of 2022 saw an unprecedented heatwave in Spain and the author, a Jesuit priest was accompanying a Dublin taxi driver on a walking retreat on the Ignatian Camino to Manresa, near Barcelona. This book tells the story of that testing pilgrimage: trying to find a way through severe heat; the challenges of walking together, finding accommodation and negotiating unexpected hurdles; and the retreat that they did together that looked at faith, prayer and blocks to progress. On one level it is a story of friendship between two very different personalities, and also a story of two souls on a spiritual search for God. As in his other books, Brendan highlights the Ignatian learning points (e.g. how to discern in a heatwave), outlines the spiritual journeys of the people they came across including a contemplative nun, and narrates the many adventures they went through to cope with exceptional circumstances. The pressure of the intense heat forces them to adapt their walking and find balance and discernment in making good decisions on the road. The pilgrimage took in some key Ignatian sites such as Montserrat and Manresa, but readers are given a unique perspective into the experience of St Ignatius Loyola through the eyes of these two pilgrims’ unique journey, as well as illustrating how a customised Ignatian retreat works. This is a pilgrimage story of finding God in the messiness of less than ideal situations, developing a heartwarming friendship, and finding a way through using Ignatian principles of reflection and flexibility. Trade Review[Brothers in Arms] will provide readers with something very different, something powerful, very moving and very instructive... it overflows with a deep sense of humanity.’ * The Irish Catholic * ‘I absolutely loved Brothers in Arms – the reflections, the songs, the stories of people you met along the way. I’ve no doubt it will help many people make the right choices along their chosen path in life.’ -- Patricia McCann * Playwright and author of Bring Me Back Alive *‘Brothers in Arms is the story of two pilgrims, one saint, a minibus of nuns and finding the freedom to follow the path God had revealed. A very worthwhile read.’ * Intercom magazine *

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Book SynopsisMytripisthisteabag,givingupitsloveThisperforatedplanet,inmysteamingmug'Everydayisapoem. From the first cup of tea in the morning as the recycling lorry trundles down the street to those final random thoughts before we drop off at night. As the children grow up and someone we love dies; as we rage against life and love brings us home. DearLife,DearAll,DearMe,DearYouAprayer,asign,someshysynchronicitySomedaysallweaskforissomekindofclue'Martin Wroe lives with Meg, a painter, in North London where their devotion to each new day begins with tea. At one time on staff at The Independent and later The Observer and a former chair of the Greenbelt Arts Festival, Martin is an associate member of the Iona Community and a regular contributor to BBC Radio 4's Thought for the Day.

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Book SynopsisInspired by the Tao Te Ching, this is Byron Katie's inspiring and pragmatic approach to achieving an awakened mind and living more simply and profoundly. Using the template of the 81 chapters of the Tao Te Ching she talks about her own experience of living in harmony with the way things are, and the difference between what hurts and what doesn't. Katie has written two books that teach how suffering can be relieved by questioning the thoughts that create it, the thoughts that argue with reality. This questioning takes courage and, in this her third book, she gives readers profound encouragement by showing them the freedom and love that live on the other side of self-inquiry.Many people believe that although enlightenment was attainable thousands of years ago by a few great saints or ascetics, such a state is out of reach of anyone living in the modern world, let alone themselves. This richly detailed account has the ability to change that belief.Katie's comments on life, and how to live it, are profound, vibrant, funny and crystal clear and all rooted in the familiar circumstances of everyday life.Trade ReviewByron Katie is one of the truly great and inspiring teachers of our time. She has been enormously helpful to me personally. I love this very wise woman, and I encourage everyone to immerse themselves in this phenomenal book.A Thousand Names for Joy is a vivid and powerful portrait of the awakened mind. I am captivated by Katie’s clear mind and loving heart, which offer the world a simple process to find joy. Who knew? Katie did, and what a blessing she offers to us all.Katie’s teachings and everyday life are pure wisdom. A Thousand Names for Joy shows us the way to inner peace, and she directs us there fearlessly, relentlessly, and with utmost generosity. I have rarely seen anyone—spiritual teachers included—embody wisdom as powerfully as Katie in her passionate embrace of each and every moment.Byron Katie’s Work . . . acts like a razor-sharp sword that cuts through illusion and enables you to know for yourself the timeless essence of your being.No less than a revolutionary way to live your life. The question is: are we brave enough to accept it?

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Book SynopsisSeven steps to lasting happiness.In The Ultimate Happiness Prescription, bestselling author and the world’s leading figure in alternative medicine Dr Deepak Chopra show us how to be happy in spite of living in difficult or trying times.By looking through the lens of our contemporary understanding of consciousness, combined with Eastern philosophy, he has created a set of principles for living with ease. The result is an inspiring and instructive journey that leads to a prescription for living life mindfully, with a light heart and effortless spontaneity - a prescription only Dr Deepak Chopra could write.With the world in turmoil and more people than ever suffering from depressive episodes, Dr Chopra underlines the importance of keeping an eye on the positive aspects of life and finding ways to experience joy no matter what is happening to you. This remarkably clear and helpful book explains how to maintain an optimistic outlook and experience the benefits of having a happy heart and soul, no matter what the circumstances.Trade ReviewThe rock star of the new spirituality * Guardian *Undoubtedly one of the most lucid and inspired philosophers of our time * Mikhail Gorbachev *The poet-prophet of alternative medicine * Time *One of the most important healers of our time * Marianne Williamson, author of A Woman's Worth *

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Book SynopsisFrom the man who has inspired millions of people to transform their lives and create their heart's desire comes his latest book on seeking and embracing the power source within.Deepak Chopra has made clear his conviction that it is within the potential of every human being to live an enriching, self-aware, magnificent life. But to reach that state of empowerment is a difficult task, calling for courage, will power and - often - guidance. In Self-Power, Chopra offers that guidance and encouragement, while inspiring his readers to take their lives into their own capable hands no matter what challenges they may confront, be they job loss, financial difficulties, relationship issues, health problems or spiritual questions.

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Book SynopsisHow to Sit is part of a charming series of books from Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh, exploring the essential foundations of mindful meditation and practise.How to Sit provides explicit, simple directions on the mechanics of posture and breathing, along with instructions for how best to achieve an awakened, relaxed state of clarity to cultivate concentration and compassion.

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Book Synopsis'[a] gem of a book' SpectatorChurches and cathedrals were originally built to be read. They are alive with images and symbols. But today few people, including regular visitors, truly understand the wealth of meaning in what they find there.How to Read a Church is a fascinating guide for anybody who wants to know more about what they see in a church or cathedral. It explains the significance of church layout, the symbolism of key scenes and the importance of details such as the use of colours and letters. It is an essential guide to the history, meanings and messages of these beautiful buildings and the treasures they contain.

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Book SynopsisWe take it for granted that aspects of monastic life can sustain our daily lives in the world, but we owe this understanding to John Main, a Benedictine monk who pioneered the idea that the desert tradition of meditative or contemplative prayer, which had largely been forgotten in the West, was for all Christians. At his monastery in London, he started teaching this way of prayer to lay groups and a network of meditation groups came into being, quickly spreading throughout the world and renewing a sense of the Church as a fellowship rooted in prayer and contemplative action. Bestselling books soon grew out of his talks. This simple, practical guide to 'pure prayer' teaches that by ceasing to struggle to find words and images by which we all too easily try to control God, we give God freedom to be himself in our hearts and we begin to pray with 'the mind of Christ', as St Paul teaches. In a nervous world saturated with image and endless self-commentary, this is a nourishing, life-giving stream of hope and refreshment.

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Book SynopsisWhat is it like to be completely alone, attempting to face your experience with only nature for company? Buddhist teacher and author, Vajragupta, has been doing just that every year for twenty-five years. Here he recounts how these `solitary retreats’ have changed him, how he fell in love with the places he stayed in and the creatures there. He reflects on how the outer world and his inner world began to speak more deeply to each other, and how there were moments when the barrier between them seemed to dissolve away. Also includes an `A-to-Z’ guide of how to do your own solitary retreat.

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Book SynopsisHaving misused women, power and the life-energy of his followers, the Seeker must overcome his demons - not figuratively but literally - in the astral, etheric and physical dimensions of reality. But in order to face them, he must first cross the threshold to the spiritual world... Transforming Demons takes us on an astonishing journey - from contemporary Norway to Ancient Atlantis, to Ireland and India - where we encounter leprechauns, dragons, evil spirits, hallucinogenic drugs, and a mysterious golden cross with a red ruby at its heart. With hubris, arrogance and deceit, the Seeker has abused his magical powers in previous existences. If he is finally to resolve his knotted karma, he must first confront his misdeeds, and the demons that were created as a result. Then he must learn to transform those demons in order to free them - and him - from the weight of his past. This is a remarkable true memoir that crosses lifetimes, thousands of years and manifold dimensions. It is an authentic story of transformation and redemption on the path to self-knowledge, freedom and love.Table of ContentsPART I: Introduction to Part I - Chapter 1: The Leprechauns (Gnomes) show the Hidden Way. Fire and Cosmic Consciousness - Chapter 2: The Calling of the Wounded Healer. The Three Demons - Chapter 3: Memories are Returning. Meeting C. The End of the Demonic Karma. Meeting H. - Chapter 4: The Betrayal. The Closing of the Way - Chapter 5: The New Offer of Land. The Ahrimanic Temptation - Chapter 6: Israel and the Christ. The Dragon. Meeting A. - Chapter 7: The Rebuilding of the Altar. The Spiritual Realm is Offered - Postscript to Part I: What Happened to the Three Demons? - PART II: Introduction to Part II, A Recapitulation - Chapter 8: The Division of Thinking, Feeling and Will in the Spiritual Realm - Chapter 9: Finding the Ruby. Opening the Second Veil of the Cosmos. The Second Elemental Realm - Chapter 10: Revisiting Ireland. The Deeper and Cosmic Dimensions of the Demons - Chapter 11: Meeting the Old Demons Again - Chapter 12: Rebuilding the Altar in the Cosmos. The Three Layers. The Karmic Consequences for Present-day Culture - Chapter 13: The Way into the Future. The Transformation of Evil - Closing Remarks to Part II - PART III: Introduction to Part III - The Astral, Etheric and Physical Worlds in Relation to Initiation, Demonic Activity and Karma - Chapter 14: The Seeker's Deceit - Chapter 15: A Family Karma. The Universal Importance of the Seeker's Repentance and Light Work - Conclusion

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Book Synopsis'Once, we were one form among many in the garden. We learned to hear the voices of the mountains, the rivers, the sky, of silence. The mice spoke, the trees spoke, the stars spoke, the deer and the fox spoke, the snake spoke - and from these words we made being. These words formed great cities and their machines ever clamouring, and we let the silence slip and the words of the whispering world fall away beyond the mirror of our making.' (From the Prologue.) --- These eighteen meditations, amplified by Jerry Shearing's striking illustrations, offer luminous words enlivened with the weight of much listening. Through these 'conversations', Peter Owen Jones offers a pathway to reconnect with nature. Just a few sentences a day will provide sustenance for the soul.Trade Review'I will carry this little book in my pocket... I will read the words on London buses and in Dartmoor woods. These across-species conversations are more than reverie, they are participation.' - Martin Shaw, author of Smoke Hole and Courting the Wild TwinTable of ContentsForeword by Martin Shaw - Prologue - The Khamsin Speaks of the Storm - The Windflower Speaks of Flux - The Fox Speaks of Exile - The Mayfly Speaks of Impermanence - The Mouse Speaks of Courage - The Olm speaks of Khthonios - The Bear Speaks of Carnage - The Robin Speaks of Death - The Heron Speaks of Sadness - The Daisy Speaks of Receiving - The Turtle Speaks of Communion - The Jasmine Flower Speaks of Enchantment - The Hawthorn Speaks of Aphrodisia - The Painted Lady Speaks of Reverie - The Starling Speaks of Dancing - The Oak Speaks of Sanctuary - The Moss Speaks of Intimacy - The Pond Speaks of Peace - Glossary

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Book Synopsis‘If you wish to learn, you may learn. I go now and will come again. And yet I am always with you.’ --- This was the conclusion to a surprising message that psychologist Iris Paxino received from a bright, angelic entity who appeared to her unannounced, radiating a comforting, warmth-filled light. The angel’s words left her awestruck and deeply moved. --- Paxino had long had the gift of knowing angels, but it was immediately apparent to her that this special encounter marked a new beginning. She was in no doubt that she did indeed want to learn, and thus began a lively, intense dialogue that offered an abundance of insights into the work of angels. She discovered that, in addition to our guardian angel, each of us has a circle of twelve angels who accompany us throughout life and beyond death; that we have ‘double’ and ‘shadow’ angels, and that families, communities and social groups have their own angels, as do specific landscapes. In a series of intimate and enlightening conversations, Paxino relates knowledge about these and many other types of spiritual beings. --- ‘Angels suffer in sympathy with the earth and stand by us in the dark times of human existence. Despite everything they do not condemn, but love us with such devotion that we can scarcely comprehend it.’Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION – ANGELS, WHO ARE YOU? – The Appearance of Angels – The Nature of Angels – The Aspect of Freedom – The Feelings of Angels – The Language of the Angels – THE PERSONAL ANGELS OF EACH HUMAN BEING – The Guardian Angel – Weakened Guardian Angels – The Leading Angel – Other Personal Angels – The Circle of Angels – The Shaping of Destiny and the Higher I – THE SHADOW ANGELS – The Luciferic Double – The Ahrimanic Double – Working with Personal Doubles – Shadows Between Us and the Light – ANGELIC WORKINGS IN THE FABRIC OF SOCIETY – Family Angels and Community Angels – Angels in Our Life – On the Social Organism – The Workings of Archangels in the Social Realm – ANGELS BETWEEN DEATH AND REBIRTH – Life After Death – The Cosmic Midnight – The Zodiac Constellations – The Planetary Spheres – The Sun Sphere as Sphere of Transformation – From the Sun Sphere to the Moon Sphere – Birth on Earth – THE TASK OF HUMANITY AND THE HIERARCHY OF ANGELS – METHODOLOGY – Creating the Right Foundations – Inner Stillness – The Heart as Organ of Perception – Meeting Beings – The After-Echoes of Meditation – CLOSING WORDS – References – Bibliography

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Book SynopsisAn introductory handbook to Rudolf Steiner's School of Spiritual Science.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisDiana Cooper is a bestselling author and international speaker. In this updated edition of A Little Light on the Spiritual Laws, Diana Cooper offers 36 laws on life and spirituality.If you do not understand the rules of the game you cannot play in the top league. In the same way you cannot be happy, healthy and successful until you understand the Laws of Life. A Little Light on the Spiritual Laws sets out clearly and simply the Spiritual Laws which govern life on Earth. Vividly illustrated with stories and metaphors, it shows how to achieve prosperity, success and happiness. This book offers a definitive, accessible guide to mastering life and, when practiced at the highest level, it contains the keys to heaven.Trade ReviewDiana Cooper's A Little Light on Ascension is the book that reminds me why I am here and what it is all about. To say I find it an inspiration is an understatement; to describe it as my bible would not be an exaggeration ... This woman positively radiates * Susan Clark, Sunday Times *Awe-inspiring and mind-blowing * Here's Health on A Little Light on Ascension *

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Book SynopsisThe Hidden Lamp is a collection of one hundred koans and stories of Buddhist women from the time of the Buddha to the present day. This revolutionary book brings together many teaching stories that were hidden for centuries, unknown until this volume. These stories are extraordinary expressions of freedom and fearlessness, relevant for men and women of any time or place. In these pages we meet nuns, laywomen practicing with their families, famous teachers honored by emperors, and old women selling tea on the side of the road.Each story is accompanied by a reflection by a contemporary woman teacher--personal responses that help bring the old stories alive for readers today--and concluded by a final meditation for the reader, a question from the editors meant to spark further rumination and inquiry. These are the voices of the women ancestors of every contemporary Buddhist.

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when we stop worrying about a challenging world full of difficult people and instead simply love everybody? In the highly-anticipated follow-up to the bestselling phenomenon Love Does, Bob Goff takes readers on an entertaining, life-altering journey into the secret of living without fear, care, constraint, or worry.

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