Illuminating the way : embracing the wisdom of monks and mystics

Description: Popular author of eight books and abbess of the on-line retreat center Abbey of the Arts, Christine Valters Paintner explores how the lives and spirituality of twelve monks and mystics offer distinct patterns of thought that will lead you to a deeper understanding of your strengths and areas of growth and will guide you on the path to your true spiritual identity. In Illuminating the Way, Christine Valters Paintner takes you on a journey through your inner life accompanied by twelve great monks and mystics from the Christian tradition. Each figure invites you to discover the energy and potential of a particular archetype -- the inner sage in Benedict; the inner visionary in Hildegard of Bingen; and the inner orphan in Dorothy Day. From the prophet Miriam of the Hebrew scriptures to twentieth century monk Thomas Merton, Paintner offers an array of challenging and enlivening models to explore.

Table of Contents: Francis of Assisi: the fool --
King David: the sovereign --
Mary: the mother --
Dorothy Day: the orphan --
Amma Syncletica: the warrior --
Brigid of Kildare: the healer --
Brendan the Navigator: the pilgrim --
Benedict of Nursia: the sage: --
Miriam: the prophet --
Rainer Maria Rilke: the artist --
Hildegard of Bingen: the visionary --
Thomas Merton: the monk --
Conclusion --
Appendix: How to practice lectio divina.

FY2017 /