The Big Book of Christian Mysticism

by McColman, Carl

• ISBN13: 9781571746245
• ISBN10: 1571746242
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-08-01
• Publisher: Hampton Roads Pub Co Inc

Summary

This volume is a comprehensive introduction and guide to Christian mysticism. It is a big book about a big possibility: the hope of achieving real, blissful, experiential union with God. Among the topics covered here are a general introduction to mysticism, the Bible and mysticism, the history and types of Christian mysticism, biographical sketches of leading Christian mystics, and practical instructions about practicing mysticism today.This is a breathtaking work that explores a form of spirituality that has changed lives over the course of 2,000 years. Learning about Christian mysticism and how it has been articulated through the centuries will prove inspirational for today?s seekers, regardless of the faith tradition.

Author Biography

Carl McColman is a blogger (www.anamchara.com) and a lay associate of the Cistercian Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, Georgia.

Table of Contents

Preface	p. 7
The Christian Mystery	p. 13
Hidden in Plain Sight	p. 15
Defining Mysticism	p. 23
How Mysticism Became Christian	p. 37
The Evolution of Christian Mysticism	p. 47
Christian Mysticism and World Mysticism	p. 57
Why Mysticism Matters	p. 65
The Mystical Paradoxes	p. 75
Christianity's Best-Kept Secret	p. 121
The Contemplative Life	p. 131
The Mystical Body	p. 133
Kenosis and Perichoresis	p. 159
The Path of Holiness	p. 167
The Journey that Isn't a Journey	p. 183
Lectio Divina	p. 189
The Heavenly Conversation	p. 201
Prayer Beyond Words	p. 219
Wood, Water, and Wine	p. 235
The Heart of the Mystery	p. 247
The Communion of Mystics	p. 258
A Contemplative Reading List	p. 272
Online Resources	p. 282
Endnotes	p. 284
Selected Bibliography	p. 289
Recent and Contemporary Christian Contemplatives	p. 294
Resources on Christian Mysticism	p. 299
Other Worthwhile Sources	p. 306
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