Spirituality, Contemplation, and Transformation

In Spirituality, Contemplation & 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.