Spirituality, Contemplation, and Transformation

Book excerpt: In Spirituality, Contemplation and Transformation, some of the leading practitioners of centering prayer--the contemporary expression of the Christian contemplative tradition as developed by the desert fathers and mothers and elaborated by mystics such as saints John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila--write about the many and varied benefits of this dynamic and intimate means of connecting with the Divine. Thomas Keating and David Frenette examine the sources of centering prayer - Justin Langille and Jennifer Michael explore different facets of the wisdom of silence - and Paul David Lawson, David G.R. Keller, and Tom Macfie explain the vital role centering prayer can play in fostering communities of faith. Cynthia Bourgeault explicates philosopher and spiritual practitioner Beatrice Bruteau's study of the meaning of contemplation - Brian Taylor uncovers the positive mental changes that centering prayer can bring about - and Thomas Ward reflects on spirituality in the twenty-first century, as well as the inspiring experience of attending a centering prayer retreat. Of interest to anyone involved with contemporary Christian life, these essays, originally published in the Sewanee Theological Review, contribute to the growing body of literature on centering prayer--its practice, theory, and applications--and offer valuable entry points for all those interested in deepening their spiritual practice and fostering a more profound relationship with the Divine. Contents: "A Traditional Blend: The Contemplative Sources of Centering Prayer" by Thomas Keating, OCSO "Three Contemplative Waves" by David Frenette "There is Nothing Between God and You: Awakening to the Wisdom of Contemplative Silence" by Justin Langille "Beatrice Bruteau's "Prayer and Identity: An Introduction with Text and Commentary" by Cynthia Bourgeault "Reading Living Water: The Integral Place of Contemplative Prayer in Christian Transformation" by David G. R. Keller "Binding Head and Heart: A Conversation Concerning Theological Education: The Contemplative Ministry Project" by David G. R. Keller "Centering Prayer and the Work of Clergy and Congregations: Prayer, Priests, and the Postmodern World" by Paul David Lawson "Seeking a Deeper Knowledge of God: Centering Prayer and the Life of a Parish" by Tom Macfie "Spirituality, Contemplation, and Transformation: An Opportunity for the Episcopal Church" by Thomas R. Ward, Jr. "Keep the Rest: Practicing Silence while Professing Poetry" by Jennifer Michael "Changing Your Mind: Contemplative Prayer and Personal Transformation" by Brian C. Taylor "Centering Prayer Retreats" by Thomas R. Ward, Jr.