Merton defines Christian mysticism, especially as expressed by the Spanish Carmelite St. John of the Cross, and he offers the contemplative experience as an answer to the irreligion and barbarism of our times.

"A powerful exploration of the biblical foundations, contemplative practices, and spiritual path of Jesus himself-from the bestselling author of The Case for Jesus. The path of following Jesus is an ancient and storied spiritual tradition. Yet many believers are not familiar with the scriptural roots of vocal prayer, meditation, and contemplation, and the three stages of spiritual growth (purgative, illuminative, unitive) that exist to bring them...

Benedictine nun, poet and musician, Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) was one of the most remarkable figures of the Middle Ages. She undertook preaching tours throughout the German empire at the age of sixty, and was consulted not only by her religious contemporaries but also by kings and emperors, yet it is largely for her apocalyptic and mystical writings that she is remembered. This volume includes selections from her three visionary works, her treatises...

Published in cooperation with the Vatican, this original collection brings the life and legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi to life through the pope's uplifting and challenging word