Explores what life may have been like for Mary, Joseph and Jesus, and celebrate the many ways in which Mary serves as a model of holiness for all women and men; as the archetype of motherhood; and as a source of tenderness, comfort, protection and peace.

For centuries Christians and seekers from various backgrounds have found strength for their spiritual journey in the Book of Common Prayer. Unique selections with facing-page commentary offer fascinating insights into its history and its meaning for today.

Take inspiration from the primary texts of the lively Celtic Christian tradition, with selections from the works of Pelagius, Eriugena and St. Patrick, as well as prayers and poems from Wales, the Outer Hebrides and Ireland.

Be inspired by the writings of ordinary Christians who chose to renounce the world in order to individually follow God's call. Insightful commentary and historical background illustrates how you can use this wisdom in your own spiritual quest.

Offering context for the wide variety of historical and contemporary Christian beliefs about the end times and incorporating writings from Augustine and other Church Fathers, guides you through the fascinating, intricate world of apocalyptic literature.

Reveals the underlying story of Matthew, giving us a full appreciation of the book's message, and uncovering a portrait of Jesus that at times resembles the gnostic Christ and sage teacher of the Gospel of Thomas more than it does traditional Christianity.

Enter the vibrant world of this medieval mystic and open yourself to the music of creation and the living light of God. This unique introduction to one of the most accomplished women in Christian history presents a wide range of Hildegard’s rich and varied writings, grouped by theme, with insightful annotations and historical background.

This spiritual classic focuses the contemporary God-seeker on developing a vital connection with God by inviting the spirit of Jesus into our lives. Helpful commentary clarifies the work's biblical and medieval roots and its continuing significance today.

Presents influential apocryphal stories about the young Jesus and tales that provide the basis for Mary's biography and ideas about her purity. Will give you a deeper understanding of the devotion Christians feel for Mary and the holy infant Jesus.

Excerpts from Charles and John Wesley, co-founders of Methodism, provide insight into the renewal of dynamic and vital Christianity and into the struggles and concerns of all who seek to be faithful participants in God's vision of love in every age.

This accessible introduction to Julian of Norwich's reflection and commentary on a series of her mystical visions opens up her profoundly hopeful vision of humanity and God, her creative imagery and her rigorous honesty about the spiritual life.

This collection of more than 300 sayings reveals spiritual truths that resonate across religious boundaries. Some are familiar; many are surprising; all expand our conventional understanding of the scope and essence of Jesus's original teachings.

Illuminates a text that until now has intimidated the general reader. Focuses on seven themes that recur throughout the five-volume work—repentance, the heart, prayer, the Jesus Prayer, the passions, stillness, and theosis.

How alike and unlike were Paul and Jesus? If there were differences between them, what effect did that have on the growth of Christianity? And how can these differences help Christians today find their way forward in the midst of countless new and creative ways of understanding their religion and their spirituality?

Explores Augustine's controversial teachings on predestination, sexuality and marriage, and the deep undercurrents of Augustine's spiritual quest that still inspire Christians today.

Excerpts from The Spiritual Exercises, his autobiography, and his collected letters and instructions provide direct insights from Ignatius about the role of humility, obedience, discernment, sin and selfawareness in spiritual life.

Encourages you to form your own opinion about what the Bible says about sex and gain a deeper understanding of your own sexuality.

The timeless account of an anonymous wanderer who set out on a journey across nineteenth-century Russia with nothing but a backpack, some bread, and a Bible, with a burning desire to learn the true meaning of the words of St. Paul: "Pray without ceasing."

An accessible introduction to the Rule of Benedict as a guide to a God-centered, balanced approach to life. It offers historical background and reflections on Benedictine topics such as living in the present moment, finding God in everyday life, individual and community prayer, hospitality, and healthy approaches to work, service and relationships.