Search results for ""paulist press international,u.s.""

The books of Amos and Hosea witness to the breakdown of the northern kingdom of Israel as a manifestation of the justice of God. At the same time, these prophetic traditions reveal facets of divine justice that interweave with divine mercy. Despite differences in structure and focus, both Amos and Hosea evoke an inherent connection between God's just judgment on the kingdom of Israel and merciful compassion for its people. Both convey divine trust in the possibility of a new, transformed community. Endorsements "The commentary is a fine up-to-date interpretation of the Bible, showing with skill and clarity how the important themes of justice and mercy appear in distinct but related ways in the two earliest writing prophets—Amos and Hosea in the mid-eighth century. Hayes is keenly aware how the two prophetic books differ from contemporary speech about God and Israel, yet she is able to show how much they have to say to modern believers. For its learning and judiciousness, the book stands out among popular commentaries on the prophets." —Richard J. Clifford, SJ, Professor of Bible, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry "As a valuable resource for classroom study, Katherine Hayes's accessible interpretation of Amos and Hosea, while highlighting the distinctive presentation of divine justice and mercy across each prophetic tradition, skillfully discloses the theological interplay and complementarity of these themes when these two texts are read together." —Gina Hens-Piazza, Joseph S. Alemany Professor of Biblical Studies, Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University "Deeply learned, admirably clear, packed with literary and theological insights. This perceptive work provides both an excellent exposition of these rich prophetic texts and a thoughtful engagement with their different, though complementary, views of the relationship between divine justice and mercy." —Harry Nasuti, Professor of Old Testament, Fordham University Katherine M. Hayes is professor emerita of biblical theology, St. Joseph Seminary (Yonkers, New York) and formerly professor of sacred scripture at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception (Huntington, New York). She is the author of and contributor to many books and articles. She served on the editorial board of the Catholic Biblical Quarterly from 2010–2018. †

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Thomas Merton's thought-provoking book is a series of essays about various Amerindian cultures. †

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Graceful and inspiring, here is an insightful and moving introduction to the Book of Psalms as prayer. †

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The Catholic Church through the Ages, now in its second edition, is a one-volume survey of the history of the Catholic Church from its beginning until (and including) the pontificate of Pope Francis. The book explains the Church's progress by using Christopher Dawson's division of the Church's history into six distinct "ages," or 350-400 year periods of time, each cycle beginning with great enthusiasm and advancement and ending in decline and loss. Writing with the experience of thirty years of teaching, the author has fashioned an ideal text that combines substance with readability. Undergraduates, graduates, and interested lay people have given the author an idea of what topics should be emphasized. As a result, he has emphasized such areas monasticism, the Crusades, medieval theology, the Inquisition, Reformation, French Revolution, the nineteenth century, and the Church in the United States. And he has added material on the Oxford Movement, John Henry Newman’s contributions to the Oxford Movement and to the Catholic intellectual tradition, and the Catholic literary revival that took place in several countries in the early twentieth century, as well as on the last three popes. As a supplement to each chapter, the author has included an updated the recommended readings and bibliography, as well as the audio-visual materials. †

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Treats the question of interpreting difficult texts of the Bible that seem to shock our modern understanding of God and religious ideas. †

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Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591) is one of only 33 “Doctors of the Church”—of whom there are only three Carmelites. A contemporary of fellow-Spaniard and Carmelite, Saint Teresa of Avila, he is considered one of the great mystics in the Western Church, one of the glories of Spain and the Carmelite order. This devotional book is made up of his sayings from his masterpieces The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Dark Night, The Spiritual Canticle and The Living Flame of Love, all edited and translated by Fr. Kavanaugh in Paulist Press's Classics of Western Spirituality series. In this little gem of a book, for each day of the year there is a thought on which to dwell, pray, or meditate. What makes this book unique is that it can can be picked up on ANY day of the year and the reader can appreciate the chosen thought. If you miss a day, the book will always be applicable for ANY and EVERY day of the year regardless of your circumstances.This is the perfect pocket-/purse-sized gift book for those who have a devotion to St. John and to Carmelite spirituality in general.†

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Often when we think about those who are sick or homebound, we think only of the patient, and rarely realize that there is a caregiver who is equally tied to the home and the restrictive schedule of the illness. This book is comprised of easy-to-read-and-digest devotional prayers, each supplication based on a biblical reading AND containing a brief concluding prayer. A suggested "Stop For A Minute" section after the final brief prayer allows a moment for the reading from Scripture to sink in, and, hopefully, help the exhausted caregiver "refuel" spiritually and emotionally. Not a "grief-resource" book, but, rather, a book to help caregivers care for themselves too, this work makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who spends him/herself in taking care of others. Highlights: —the devotional thoughts are short and to the point, specifically directed to the caregiver —easy to read —a spiritual drink for those short on time —theset "daily devotions" are unique in their specific application to the world of the caregiver †

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The first-ever systematic academic text for the first years of formation of deacons. This collection of essays on history, pastoral theology, and sociology covers the entire scope of diaconal life. †

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Deacons and the Church is a comprehensive overview of the permanent diaconate that provides a unique combination of theological reflection, historical analysis, and pastoral problems and issues. Written by a permanent deacon, it sets as point of departure the restoration of the diaconate at Vatican II. From there, it follows the history of the diaconate from Jesus onward, pausing to consider those who serve as stellar examples of deacons for deacons: Lawrence of Rome, Ephrem of Nisibis, Francis of Assisi, and Nicholas Ferrer of Little Gidding. He discusses the deacon and liturgy, reflects on the spirituality of the deacon, the dysfunctional deacon, and the interface between the sacraments of Holy Orders and Matrimony. With its one-of-a-kind combination of theological, historical, and pastoral emphasis, enhanced by the personal experience of the author, this book is a must-have for deacons and anyone interested in the diaconate. †

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With bursting congregations, shrinking ranks and a priest sexual abuse scandal in the headlines, no group seems more beleaguered of late than Roman Catholic priests. This book of essays by a priest is candid, thoughtful, honest, sometimes funny and filled with hope and practical suggestions for parish priests today. Facing such challenges as prayer, obedience, celibacy, depression and church leadership, he offers a call to greater transparency and trusting faith. Even turbulent times are graced. Father Heher believes priests can do more than survive this difficult time; they have the capacity to grow more resilient, relaxed, effective and loving. Highlights: —there are many books about priests but few to priests themselves by one of their own —engagingly written —insightful reading for lay people †

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In this revised edition of a longtime best selling anthology of Christian mysticism, editors Louis Dupré and James Wiseman bring together selections from the writings of twenty-three of the most important Christian mystics, from Origen of Alexandria in the third century to Thomas Merton in the twentieth. This edition retains most of the authors included in the first addition, but has replaced some authors from that edition with ones that will be of greater interest to readers today, e.g., Francis and Clare of Assisi, Francis de Sales and Jane de Chantal, and Evelyn Underhill. A general introduction discusses the place of mysticism within the Christian life as a whole, while individual chapter introductions place the mystical writers in their historical context and relate their works to others in the anthology. In addition, the editors have completely updated the bibliographies at the end of each chapter. Students and teachers of spirituality, as well as persons interested in their own spiritual growth, will welcome this popular revised resource, because it makes readily available in one volume major works by important Christian mystical writers. Like its predecessor, it is sure to be welcomed in the academic world and spiritual and devotional circles. †

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Sure to be of exceptional interest among scholars as well as recreational readers is this volume in the esteemed Classics of Western Spirituality™ series. Celtic Spirituality offers translations of numerous texts from the Celtic tradition from the 6th through the 13th centuries, in a cross-section of genres and forms, including saints' lives, monastic texts, poetry, devotional texts, liturgical texts, apocrypha, exegetical texts, and theological treatises. Davies has written a helpful introduction, which covers the origins and characteristics of Celtic Christianity and the different genres included in body of the work. He provides readers with insight into the style, form, and character of the texts, including explanation of the Celtic emphasis on orality, the importance of place, emphasis on the environment and animals, and the role of the imagination. With its wide diversity of texts and emphasis on a current of spirituality that is both popular, historical, and inspirational, this volume will be important for scholars of spirituality and Celtic history as well as persons of Celtic descent. †

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"In these critical times nothing could be more valuable for the West than a rediscovery of its true spiritual heritage: books which were once the treasures of people, now rare and little known." Seyyed Hossein Nasr Early Islamic Mysticism: Sufi, Qur'an, Mi'raj, Poetic and Theological Writings translated, edited and with an introduction by Michael A. Sells preface by Carl W. Ernst God is the light of the heavens and earth. The light like the light of a lamp in a niche The lamp enclosed in a cover of glass The glass like a glistening star Kindled from the oil of a blessed tree An olive not of the East not of the West Its oil glows forth nearly without the touch of fire… Qur'an 24:35 The first centuries of Islam saw the development of Sufism as one of the world's major mystical traditions. Although the later Sufi writings by mystics such as Rumi are known and available in translation, access to the crucial early period of Islamic mysticism has been far more limited. This volume opens with an essay on the place of spirituality within the Islamic tradition. Immediately following are the foundation texts of the pre-Sufi spirituality: the Qur'an passages most important to the mystical tradition; the accounts of Muhammad's heavenly ascent (Mi'raj); and the crucial work of early poets in setting a poetic sensibility for speaking of union with the divine beloved. The volume then presents the sayings attributed to the key early figures of Islamic spirituality: Ja'far as-Saddiq, the Sixth Imam of the Shi'ite Tradition; Rabi'a, the most famous woman saint of classical Islam; Muhasibi, the founder of Islamic moral psychology; Bistami, whose sayings on mystical union have generated fascination and controversy throughout the Islamic tradition; Tustari, a pioneer in the mystical interpretation of the Qur'an; Junayd, who helped place Sufi mysticism at the center of the Islamic tradition; Hallaj, famous for his ecstatic utterances and martyrdom; and Niffari, whose sayings are considered among the deepest mystical expressions within Islam. The sayings of these pioneers are embedded in the later stratum of analytical and synoptic writings of later Sufi thinkers: Sarraj; Sulami; Qushayri; and 'Attar. Extensive portions of these writers are translated into English for the first time. †

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Excellent textbook introduction to the basic issues of fundamental moral theology that considers all of today's moral issues. †

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"...clearly a must for all libraries...and for all readers interested in spirituality." Religious Studies Review John Cassian: Conferences translation and preface by Colm Luibheid introduction by Owen Chadwick "I f you wish to achieve true knowledge of scripture you must hurry to achieve unshakable humility of heart. This is what will lead you not to the knowledge that puffs a man up but to the lore which illumines through the achievement of love." John Cassian (c. 365-c. 435) At the turn of the sixth century the Mediterranean world was witnessing the decline of Roman rule that had formed the bedrock of its civil order. During the chaos of those years, there arose in the deserts of Egypt and Syria monastic movements that offered men and women a radical God-centered alternative to the present society. Among the most eloquent interpreters of this new movement to western Europe was John Cassian (c. 365-c.435). Drawing on his own early experience as a monk in Bethlehem and Egypt, he journeyed to the West to found monasteries in Marseilles and the region of Provence. Included in this volume is Cassian's masterpiece, the Conferences, which is a study of the Egyptian ideal of the monk. The new translation by Colm Luibheid is coupled with an insightful introduction by the distinguished Regius Professor Emeritus of Modern History, Cambridge University, Owen Chadwick, who writes of Cassian's achievement: "Like the Rule of St. Benedict, his work was a protection against excess and a constant recall to that primitive simplicity where eastern spirituality met western." †

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Offers an invaluable tool for the exploration of the inner life contained within our dreams and individual, group,and community techniques for discovering more of the multiple meanings inherent in every dream. With extensive, annotated bibliography. †

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Concerned with emotional healing by prayer. Strong charismatic emphasis. †

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The Prophet: For a New Generation is a contemporary edition of the prose-poetry fables written in English by the Lebanese American poet and writer Kahlil Gibran. The original book, The Prophet, is undoubtedly Gibran's best-known work. It has been translated into over a hundred languages, making it one of the most translated books in history and one of the bestselling books of all time. The story focuses on the prophet Almustafa who has lived in the city of Orphalese for twelve years and is about to board a ship that will carry him home. He is stopped by a group of people with whom he discusses topics such as life and the human condition. This new and accessible edition is divided into fourteen chapters dealing with love, marriage, children, eating and drinking, work, joy and sorrow, freedom, self-knowledge, friendship, good and evil, prayer, pleasure, beauty, and death. Khalil Gibran (1883–1931) poet, philosopher, and artist, was born in Lebanon. The millions of Arabic-speaking people familiar with his writings in that language consider him the genius of his age. His poetry has been translated into more than twenty languages. In the United States, which he made his home during the last twenty years of his life, he began to write in English. The Prophet and his other books of poetry are known and loved by many Americans who find in them an expression of the deepest impulses of the human heart and mind. His writings in both languages, which deal with such themes as love, death, nature, and a longing for the homeland, are full of lyrical outpourings and are expressive of his deeply religious and mystic nature. †

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A companion to John Cassian's well-received Conferences in the Ancient Christian Writers series, the Institutes, known also as The Institutes of the Cenobia and the Remedies for the Eight Principal Vices, is the first written work of John Cassian, who had an immense influence on Western monasticism, and, by extension, on Western civilization. The Institutes is made up of two sections. In the first, Cassian deals with the institutes and rules of Egyptian monasteries, including monastic garb and prayer. The second part, in eight books, treats the eight principal vices and describes how to counter them, infused with the metaphor of the monk as athlete, competing in a contest. Taken together, the Conferences and the Institutes constitute a whole, a set, that knows no parallel in ancient Christian literature. This superior translation is an invaluable addition to academic, theological and historical studies, and will enrich anyone interested in the history of spirituality and asceticism. †

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This volume covers Augustine's notes and commentaries on Psalms 1 through 29. Augustine’s theme is the church, less as an external institution than as the very focus and center of God and Christ. †

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Both Tolkien and C.S. Lewis are literary superstars, known around the world as the creators of Middle-earth and Narnia. But few of their readers and fans know about the important and complex friendship between Tolkien and his fellow Oxford academic C.S. Lewis. Without the persistent encouragement of his friend, Tolkien would never have completed The Lord of the Rings. This great tale, along with the connected matter of The Silmarillion, would have remained merely a private hobby. Likewise, all of Lewis' fiction, after the two met at Oxford University in 1926, bears the mark of Tolkien's influence, whether in names he used or in the creation of convincing fantasy worlds. They quickly discovered their affinity—a love of language and the imagination, a wide reading in northern myth and fairy tale, a desire to write stories themselves in both poetry and prose. The quality of their literary friendship invites comparisons with those of William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, William Cowper and John Newton, and G.K. Chesterton and Hillaire Belloc. Both Tolkien and Lewis were central figures in the informal Oxford literary circle, the Inklings. This book explores their lives, unfolding the extraordinary story of their complex friendship that lasted, with its ups and downs, until Lewis's death in 1963. Despite their differences—differences of temperament, spiritual emphasis, and view of their storytelling art—what united them was much stronger, a shared vision that continues to inspire their millions of readers throughout the world. †

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In this exquisitely detailed book, a monk gives his own Christian take on the Harry Potter series. He traces the intricate pattern of J K Rowling’s surprisingly mystical tale with wit and insight. He brings out the wisdom of her understanding of good and evil and links her magical world, shown to be a rich mine of spiritual and Christian teaching, to spiritual reality. The author identifies the many symbols and illuminating connections both to the Christian tradition and among the books themselves and shows how they are ultimately rooted in the death and resurrection of Christ. Never didactic and always engaging, the author expounds on, among other things, the values that Harry learns at Hogwarts, which set the vulnerability of love and sacrifice against the ignorant and self-defeating power seeking of Voldemort. Packed with literary insight, richly referenced, and argued with fine literary acumen, this book will be a delight and an enlightenment for all lovers of the Harry Potter series. I †

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An activity book for children that engages the whole family in preparing to celebrate the liturgical season of the church year. Includes a pull-out calendar that children can color and display. Ages 7-11. †

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Desiderio desideravi, the title of Pope Francis's 2022 document on the sacred liturgy, comes from the Latin version of Luke 22:15: "I have earnestly desired (Desiderio desideravi) to eat this Passover with you before I suffer." Pope Francis begins this beautiful and relatively short reflection on the beauty, goodness, and truth of the sacred liturgy by reminding us of the Most Holy Trinity's love for us and desire for us.Responding to the need demonstrated by the desire of some Catholics for the pre-Vatican II Mass, Pope Francis encourages a deepening of our understanding of the Eucharist in order that we might fully appreciate the riches in the liturgy. The pope's text is accompanied by a helpful introduction and commentary by prominent liturgical and sacramental theologian, Kevin W. Irwin.Pope Francis, Jorge Mario Bergolio, was born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, and became bishop of Rome and the 266th pope of the Catholic Church on March 13, 2013.Msgr. Kevin W. Irwin is a priest of the Archdiocese of New York who has taught at The Catholic University of America for years, where he served as dean of the School of Theology and Religious Studies.†

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The purpose of this book is to invite and assist readers to embark on a rewarding “journey” through texts in the New Testament that are “less trodden”: the Letter to the Hebrews; James; 1 and 2 Peter; 1, 2, and 3 John; Jude; and Revelation. One reason these texts are less traveled is their placement in the New Testament canon. They are the final nine (of twenty-seven) writings in the New Testament. Another reason is that readings from these texts are rarely the subject of preaching in the Church’s Sunday Eucharistic liturgy. †

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Pastoral Care and Counseling addresses the critique that pastoral care is indistinguishable from secular psychotherapy by placing a person's relationship to God at the center of pastoral care. Each person is created in the Image of God (dignity) and has a purpose (vocation), but people face social problems such as poverty or discrimination that limit this expression. This book shows how ministers can care for systems, arenas such as health care, education, and employment. Even traumatic events such as abuse and suicide are linked with social factors like unemployment, so understanding the impact of systems on pastoral care is an essential part of ministry in the twenty-first century. This book combines theological reflection, psychological insights, social science research, and accessible case studies to provide an indispensable introductory text for seminary students and experienced ministers alike. The book shows how human life is a journey lived out in relationship to God. Each chapter tells a compelling story, whether adult survivors of abuse, suicide, intimate partner violence, poverty, racial reconciliation, dementia, and grief, and draws theological conclusions with direct practical importance from the narrative. Students reading this text will have tools to reflect theologically on practices of pastoral care and counseling. Rather than splitting pastoral ministry into subtopics, the Care for Stories, Systems, and Self framework fosters a balanced, wise, and theologically reflective approach to ministry in a variety of settings. †

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"The cross is the word of hope and mercy to all the crucified of the world, for those who are oppressed, the sick, poor, and marginalized, victims of violence and abuse, still find the courage to turn their gaze to the One who was pierced. And from this look of divine love they receive comfort, peace, consolation, and mercy, even the strength to forgive their executioners. What would man be without the cross of Christ?" —from the Introduction With this simple yet profound book, Pope Francis invites us to pray the stations and to continue “this Way of the Cross in our daily lives. Let us walk together along the Way of the Cross and let us do so carrying in our hearts this word of love and forgiveness” (Address, March 29, 2013). †

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Seven Pillars of Servant Leadership trains readers in how to evolve and implement the competencies and behaviors of servant leadership using pointed questions, stories, exercises, case studies, and research-based activities that the authors have field-tested with numerous leaders in the public and private sectors. Seven Pillars goes beyond developing individual skills, however. Each chapter includes stories of how servant-led companies have integrated specific servant leadership principles and skills into corporate cultures and policies. The final chapter offers updated strategies and examples so that readers can begin implementing servant leadership in their own organizations. The book includes questions that are ideal for small groups, that reflect the findings of twenty years of research on the changes of human behavior that take place in individuals and organizations. †

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How Not to Say Mass looks first at general principles for liturgy, for understanding symbols, and for being a presider. Examining the Mass, section by section, using the approach of via negativa—focusing on what NOT to do—the author reminds presiders of the many obvious, but sometimes unconscious, violations of rubrics and liturgical principles which can be detrimental to the celebration of good effective liturgy. †

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Now in a new edition, this thought-provoking book by popular author Richard Rohr offers a critique of religion as a system that often creates an alternative, pious world without really challenging oppression, materialism, and sectarianism in our modern world. Religion, he says, without this contemplative stance, is often part of the problem. Drawing from Jesus’ parable of the rich man, Rohr believes that religion can only rediscover itself as a transformational system if it passes through the eye of a needle, if it overcomes its own temptation to power, wealth, and fundamentalism. A true contemplative stance crosses boundaries, is not concerned with who’s in and who’s out. It is not a worthiness competition. In fact, the accessibility of the contemplative awareness to all is, Rohr believes, the key to the Gospel message: The kingdom of heaven is hidden in plain sight. †

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This book provides an introductory survey of various bioethical issues facing society from beginning of life issues to end of life issues, and several issues in between.

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In Farid ad-Din ‘Attār’s Memorial of God's Friends, readers will explore the sole extant prose work of the great Persian Sufi poet Farid al-Din ‘Attār (d. ca. 1230). Integrating the writings of generations of Sufi scholars and historians, it relates the saga of Islamic spirituality through the lives and sayings of some its most prominent exemplars. ‘Attār combines popular legend, historical anecdote, ethical maxim, and speculative meditation in lively and thought-provoking biographies. ‘Attār’s lucid and economical style encourages readers to participate fully in the efforts of these pioneers of the sacred to live out and express their unfolding encounters with the divine. Scholars, shopkeepers, princes, and outcasts—God’s friends come from all classes of medieval society and embody the full range of religious attitudes, from piety and awe to love and ecstatic union. This work merges the miraculous and the everyday in one of the most engaging and comprehensive portrayals of spiritual experience in the Islamic tradition. Highlights: This translation makes the major biographies of Memorial of God’s Friends available in their entirety for the first time to a general audience in a contemporary American idiom. †

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Saint Teresa of Avila is one of the 33 "Doctors of the Church"—and one of only four women. This devotional book is made up of her sayings from her masterpiece The Interior Castle, which Paulist Press publishes in its Classics of Western Spirituality Series. For each day of the year there is a thought on which to dwell, pray, or meditate. What makes this book unique is that it can can be picked up on ANY day of the year and the reader can appreciate the chosen thought. If you miss a day, the book will always be applicable for ANY and EVERY day of the year regardless of your circumstances. This is the perfect pocket-/purse-sized gift book for those who have a devotion to St. Teresa and to Carmelite spirituality in general. †

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"The story told by Edward Flannery…calls not only for reform but for profound and meaningful repentance." —David W. Tracy "A major contribution to Jewish-Christian relations." —Marc Tanenbaum "It will bring the Catholic community an entirely new development in their thinking about the people of the Jewish faith." —Robert F. Drinan "It comes from the heart of an honest priest who is deeply moved by the poisonous horror of anti-Semitism, and who appeals to his people to remember that…it is a denial of Christian faith, a failure of Christian hope, and a malady of Christian love." —Abram Sachar "A definitive work." —Benjamin Epstein This revised and updated edition of THE ANGUISH OF THE JEWS - a classic history of anti-Semitism written by a Roman Catholic priest and now with a foreword by Philip Cunningham is as relevant today as when it was first published in 1964. Hailed by Jews and Christians alike as a groundbreaking book that did much to expose the reality of historical anti-Semitism in the United States and around the world, it includes material covering the last two decades; it considers developments in the Middle East, and it explores the impact that Judaic studies have had on Christian thought. †

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An inclusive language version of the modern spiritual classic, an exquisitely beautiful meditation on the incarnation, on what it means to be fully human, and on finding the face of God hidden in our neighbors. †

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Integrates contemporary spirituality and psychology with the twelve steps as it seeks to lead readers to new depths of personal resources for healing and recovery. †

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"Gertrud Nelson has written a book on ritual that is one of a kind. Her exquisitely written volume covers the history, psychology and spirituality of ritual in general and Christian ritual in particular. Enlivened by pithy and insightful examples, many of them drawn from her own family life, Ms. Nelson penetrates to the heart of the meaning of ritual and ceremony in a fresh way. She manages to escape the trap of many writers on this subject—superficial piety—and makes relevant for the modern reader the importance of ritual for connecting us to the meaning and flow of life. I would not have thought in today's rationalistic age that the ceremonies of life could be made vital again as cogently and splendidly as has been don in this book. Sometimes even single sentences speak volumes: 'It is Advent, and we, a people, are pregnant.' This is a book to be read carefully, perhaps only a few pages a day. Reading the book can become a ritual, especially for Christian people to whom it is primarily addressed. Beautiful illustrations by the author add to the expressiveness of this carefully composed work. This book may prove to be a classic treatment of the meaning of ritual for this modern era." —John Sanford †

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A practical and prayerful guide to healing the hurt that may have occurred in the eight stages of life as described by psychologist Erik Erikson. †

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A monk reflects on the many aspects of the spiritual life with the basic attitude of gratefulness. “A true delight.” —Henri J. M. Nouwen †

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The meaning of the spiritual life illuminated by the great depth psychologist and the mystic saint. †

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"This series is a testimony to the Spirit breathing where He wills." America John Climacus: The Ladder of Divine Ascent edited and translated by Colm Luibheid and Norman Russell notes on translation by Norman Russell, preface by Kallistos Ware "Prayer is the mother and daughter of tears. It is an expiation of sin, a bridge across temptation, a bulwark against affliction. It wipes out conflict, is the work of angels, and is the nourishment of everything spiritual." John Climacus (c. 579-649) The Ladder of Divine Ascent was the most widely used handbook of the ascetic life in the ancient Greek Church. Popular among both lay and monastics, it was translated into Latin, Syriac, Arabic, Armenian, Old Slavonic, and many modern languages. It was written while the author (who received his surname from this book) was abbot of the monastery of Catherine on Mount Sinai. As reflected in the title, the ascetical life is portrayed as a ladder which each aspirant must ascend, each step being a virtue to be acquired, or a vice to be surrendered. Its thirty steps reflect the hidden life of Christ himself. This work had a fundamental influence in the particularly the Hesychastic, Jesus Prayer, or Prayer of the Heart movement. Pierre Pourrat in his History of Christian Spirituality calls John Climacus the "most important ascetical theologian of the East, at this epoch, who enjoyed a great reputation and exercised and important influence on future centuries." †

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"Each volume has been critically chosen, lucidly translated and excellently introduced by internationally acknowledged scholars. (The publisher) must be praised for its selectivity, overall book format, original cover designs by contemporary artists, and indexes for each volume." Theological Studies Hadewijch: The Complete Works translation and introduction by Mother Columbia Hart, O.S.B., preface by Paul Mummers, S.J. "May God give us a renewed mind For noble and free love, To make us so new in our life That Love may bless us And renew, with new taste, Those to whom she can give new fullness; Love is the new and powerful recompense Of those whose life renews itself for Love alone." Hadewijch (A Beguine of the 13th Century) Belonging to the early thirteenth century, Hadewijch brings us a spiritual message of extraordinary power. She was endowed in no less degree than St. Teresa of Avila with the gifts of visionary mysticism and literary genius. She felt herself strongly a woman, as can be seen from her choosing to join the women's movement of her day, that of the Beguines, who dedicated themselves to a life of true spirituality without taking the veil. Hadewijch understood that she was called to communicate to others the profound knowledge of the things of God granted to her in her mystical life. She directed her apostolate to some younger Beguines, and nearly all her writings, both prose and poetry, were intended for them. She mentions other spiritual friends, some in distant countries. Her experiences and her message, however , however, remained hidden; she attained to no celebrity among her contemporaries. The way of immediate fame was for other women mystics. St. Hildegard (1098-1179), the visionary and writer, enjoyed high reputation Clairvaux, and crowned heads. Hadewijch's contemporary, St. Lutgard (1183-1246), was widely known for her visions of the Sacred Heart, which won her the friendship of persons like the Master General of the Dominican Order and Duchess Marie of Brabant (daughter of King Louis VIII of France), and after her death made her tomb a place of pilgrimage. Where Hadewijch was buried, however, no one knows and her writings, after passing through the hands of John of Ruusbroec and his circle, were lost to sight until the nineteenth century. Since the rediscovery of Hadewijch, her importance has been progressively appreciated, and the hidden dimension of her life is now open so that we may share it according to the particular needs of our own day. †

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"The books are beautifully, almost lavishly presented and scholars of the highest caliber have taken part in the work of editing.... This is a comprehensive attempt to make the spiritual tradition of large areas of mankind more generally accessible to the ordinary interested reader." A. M. Allchin in Church Times Catherine of Siena-The Dialogue translation and introduction by Suzanne Noffke, O.P., preface by Giuliana Cavallini "If you have received my love sincerely without self-interest, you will drink your neighbor's love sincerely. It is just like a vessel that you fill at the fountain. If you take it out of the fountain to drink, the vessel is soon empty. But if you hold your vessel in the fountain while you drink, it will not get empty: indeed, it will always be full." Catherine of Siena, 1347-1380 This is the crowning spiritual work of the only woman other than Teresa of Avila to be granted the title of Doctor of the Roman Catholic Church. This volume was simply called "my book" by the fourteenth-century Italian saint. The aim of her book (one of the first books to see print in Spain, Germany, Italy, and England), says Dr. Noffke in her Foreword, was "the instruction and encouragement of all those whose spiritual welfare was her concern." Catherine was "a mystic whose plunge into God plunged her deep into the affairs of society, Church and the souls who came under her influence." Professor Noffke goes on to call The Dialogue "a great tapestry to which Catherine adds stitch upon stitch until she is satisfied that she has communicated all she can of what she has learned of the way of God." In this, the sixth centenary of the great Dominican's death, we live in a time so badly in need of her sense of institutional reform as flowing from Divine truth, love and charity. Dr. Noffke says: "In the opening pages of The Dialogue Catherine presents a series of questions or petitions to God the Father each of which receives a response and amplification. There is the magnificent symbolic portrayal of Christ as the bridge. There are specific discussions of discernment, tears (true and false spiritual emotion), truth, the sacramental heart ('mystic body') of the Church, divine providence, obedience…. It is not so much a treatise to be read as it is a conversation to be entered into with earnest leisure and leisurely earnest." †

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A compassionate book addressed to those who have suffered pain or senseless loss. †

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"The Classics of Western Spirituality™ Series promises to be one of the most important and valuable tools for the teaching of western spiritual traditions in coming years." Bernard McGinn Professor of Historical Theology and History of Christianity, The University of Chicago Divinity School, Chicago, Illinois Richard of St. Victor: The Book of the Patriarchs, The Mystical Ark, Book Three of the Trinity translation and introduction by Grover A. Zinn, preface by Jean Chatillon "Contemplation is free and clear vision of the mind fixed upon the manifestation of wisdom in suspended wonder...." Richard of St. Victor (?—1173) One of the great mystics of the Christian Tradition, Richard is the link between the early tradition of Pseudo-Dionysius and the great mystical awakening in Medieval Europe. For his genius in bringing together both the Latin and Greek Traditions all contemplatives owe him a great debt. Born in twelfth century Scotland, he joined the Abbey of St. Victor in Paris where he became Superior and Prior. The Twelve Patriarchs (or Benjamin Minor) is his preparation of the soul for contemplation. The framework is a scriptural allegory based on the story of Jacob. Richard uses the meaning of the names and the elements of the story to illustrate a unified view of the person and the relationship between contemplation and action. His Mystical Ark ( or Benjamin Major) completes this study. In his Book Three of the Trinity we see Richard's doctrinal basis for the spiritual conclusions of his earlier work. Richard can teach us about the discipline and the dangers of the mystical quest. He can enlighten us concerning the relevance of symbols and symbolic structures as modes of communication. Jean Chatillon, of the University of Paris, who wrote the preface, is the world's Victorine scholar. †

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A basic introduction to the interpretation of dreams, providing guidelines for understanding their spiritual significance. †

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A dictionary of over 100 entries on key words and concepts of Paul from a theological point of view. "This book is so much more than a list of concepts from A to Z found in the letters of Paul. Employing judicious and even-handed exegetical insights from more than forty years of interpreting Paul's letters, Brendan Byrne offers scholars and nonprofessionals a comprehensive window into Paul's theological vision by means of his extensive vocabulary. This is an essential resource for anyone interested in Paul's letters; it also provides an excellent companion to courses or introductory textbooks on Paul. Highly recommended!" —Ronald D. Witherup, PSS, author, Scripture and Tradition in the Letters of Paul and Galatians: Life in the New Creation "Brendan Byrne has given us a book that we have needed for a long time: an authoritative guide to Paul's vocabulary. Comprehensive in scope, exegetically sound, and theologically insightful, Words of Faith enables us to read Paul with understanding. If you are looking for a single resource that can lead you into the richness of Paul's thought, this is it!" —Frank J. Matera, professor emeritus, The Catholic University of America Brendan Byrne, SJ, is professor emeritus of New Testament at the University of Divinity (Melbourne). He continues to give retreats and workshops on Scripture and Ignatian spirituality in Australian and elsewhere. †

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The Revolution Has Only Just Begun Twenty-five years ago Robert Greenleaf published these prophetic essays on what he coined servant leadership, a practical philosophy that replaces traditional autocratic leadership with a holistic, ethical approach. This highly influential book has been embraced by cutting edge management everywhere. Yet in these days of Enron and what VISA CEO Dee Hock calls our "era of massive institutional failure," Greenleaf's seminal work must reach the mainstream now more than ever. Servant Leadership— · helps leaders find their true power and moral authority to lead. · helps those served become healthier, wiser, freer, and more autonomous. · encourages collaboration, trust, listening, and empowerment. · offers long-lasting change, not a temporary fix. · extends beyond business for leaders of all types of groups. †

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