Wisdom from the Christian Mystics: How to Pray the Christian Way

by David Torkington (Author), David Torkington (Author)

New
Paperback
2018
$18.11

When Quietism was condemned in 1687 it resulted in an antipathy, if not an open hostility to authentic mystical theology. This situation has lasted down to the present day and has been aggravated by many forms of counterfeit mysticism that are self-centred, not God-centred. The consequences have been disastrous. To restore the balance lost to Christian spirituality, the author returns to the profound mystical teaching that Jesus himself lived and handed on to the early Church through his disciples. His research has resulted in a book that details a practical daily spirituality for all, that mirrors that which was lived by our earliest Christian forebears. It emphasises the original balance between personal and communal prayer in such a way that our whole lives become the place where we continually offer our lives through Christ to the Father.

Synopsis

When Quietism was condemned in 1687 it resulted in an antipathy, if not an open hostility to authentic mystical theology. This situation has lasted down to the present day and has been aggravated by many forms of counterfeit mysticism that are self-centred, not God-centred. The consequences have been disastrous. To restore the balance lost to Christian spirituality, the author returns to the profound mystical teaching that Jesus himself lived and handed on to the early Church through his disciples. His research has resulted in a book that details a practical daily spirituality for all, that mirrors that which was lived by our earliest Christian forebears. It emphasises the original balance between personal and communal prayer in such a way that our whole lives become the place where we continually offer our lives through Christ to the Father.

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More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 368
Publisher: Circle Books
Published: 26 Jan 2018
ISBN 10: 1785357743
ISBN 13: 9781785357749

Media Reviews

'A Ground-breaking Spiritual Classic.' David Torkington's latest book, Wisdom from the Christian Mystics has already been described in superlatives by reviewers, even before it has been officially launched at the Athenaeum, Pall Mall. Kevin Grant, the former Editor in Chief of the Catholic Universe, former Managing Director of the Catholic Herald and former Master of the Catholic Writer's Guild simply called it, 'a masterpiece'. For a writer and a poet, who is so careful with words, it is remarkable that in his endorsement of the book he even suggests that the author could be canonized for writing it - hopefully not in the near future! We need to hear much more from a writer whose books have been declared mandatory reading by Sr Wendy Beckett. Usually such worthy books are beyond the comprehension of the ordinary punters in the pews, but not the books of this author.--Michael Winterbottom The Catholic Universe
David Torkington has written a delightfully sensitive account of how the mystics of the Christian tradition help lead us to God. Many Catholics, even very prayerful ones, are intimidated by the mere word mystic. Torkington shows us that mystical writing is actually a singularly effective tool in imagining the Almighty. God is ineffable, which means He is so different from us that He cannot be described in words. Mystics have the courage to abandon normal categories of language so as to stretch their fingers closer to that which can never be touched. David Torkington has a genuine enthusiasm for the writings of mystics of many eras, and that passion is contagious. It makes him an excellent teacher. Torkington is a faithful guide into lesser-known but marvelously rich pastures. Warmly recommended.--Fr Erik Ross, O.P, Dominican Priest, publisher and translator
When Wisdom from the Western Isles sold out with the speed of light, I was designated translator of Wisdom from Franciscan Italy, and finally this his masterpiece Wisdom from the Christian mystics. All his books answer many important questions about the spiritual life and difficulties we all face especially laypeople like me trying to follow in the footsteps of our Lord. He stresses that we are all called, not only to sanctity but also to mystical prayer, and unequivocally condemns the evils of New Age in all its various and devious forms. I strongly recommend his works, especially this, his masterpiece, to all who are determined to follow the 'Way', and earnestly strive towards personal sanctity.--Aleksandra Marija Chwalowsky, translator of the Croatian edition

Author Bio

David Torkington is a Spiritual Theologian, best-selling author and speaker who specializes in Prayer, Christian Spirituality and Mystical Theology. He was educated at the Franciscan Study Centre and the National Catholic Radio and Television Centre. David lives in the south of England.