Intimacy with God: An Introduction to Centering Prayer - Softcover

Thomas Keating

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0824525299 ISBN 13: 9780824525293

Publisher: Crossroad Publishing Company, 2009

Synopsis

A poetic and accessible introduction to the method of Centering Prayer, this guide explains its origins, theological basis, and psychology by drawing on the writings of important Catholic figures, such as St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross, and significant texts, such as The Cloud of Unknowing. Describing the theological basis for the Centering Prayer while staying rooted in the heart of a practice that is very personal and intimate, the study explores how harmful attitudes and beliefs about God can distort a positive relationship with the divine. With a careful balance of both Christian and Buddhist philosophy, the volume also discusses the psychological barriers and levels of resistance that contemplatives must face and bolsters seekers with supportive practices like Lectio Divina (holy reading) and praying the rosary. Updated to include a new foreword, this revised edition of a much loved classic is sure to inspire a deeply intimate experience with God.

About this title

Review:

For all those aspiring to a genuine spiritual life, Father Keating has charted a course that will take us progressively closer to our divine goal as we learn to touch God, first with the words of our lips, then with reflections of the mind and with the feelings of the heart. --Living Prayer

Packed into this book is a treasury of spiritual history and teaching. There is a richness of complexity which is always disciplined by the simplicity of the goal of prayer-union (or intimacy) with God. --St. Anthony Messenger

This is perhaps Keating's most readable and enlightening work. Filled with insight and practical advice, it offers sound wisdom on the way that centering prayer can deepen our intimacy with God. --Spiritual Book News

About the Author:

Thomas Keating is the founder of the Centering Prayer movement, an author, a teacher, and a monk who has worked for many years to foster understanding among the world's religions. A member of the Cistercian Order in the Benedictine tradition, he has served at monasteries in Colorado and Massachusetts and currently directs retreats in the practice of Centering Prayer, a cornerstone of contemporary Christian contemplative practice. He is the author of numerous books, including Fruits and Gifts of the Spirit; Manifesting God; Open Mind, Open Heart; St. Therese of Lisieux; and The Transformation of Suffering. He lives at St. Benedict's Monastery in Snowmass, Colorado.

About this edition

• Publisher: Crossroad Publishing Company
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 0824525299
• ISBN 13: 9780824525293
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 176