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An Altar in the World: A Geography of Faith
In her critically acclaimed Leaving Church ("a beautiful, absorbing memoir."—Dallas Morning News), Barbara Brown Taylor wrote about leaving full-time ministry to become a professor, a decision that stretched the boundaries of her faith. Now, in her stunning follow-up, An Altar in the World, she shares how she learned to encounter God beyond the walls of any churc...more
Hardcover, 216 pages
Published
February 1st 2009
by HarperOne
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I read this for a church book club, and while the book had some solid, even excellent, chapters, in other ways I found it flawed. An Altar in the World is best suited for people who identify as "spiritual, but not religious," and for those who are looking to expand their spirituality outside of their standard worship experience. Taylor tends to dismiss out of hand what religion has to offer outside of a standard (often boring) weekly worship experience, so I would urge those who are wo...more
This is a beautiful book -- another one borrowed from the library, but which I want to purchase. Brown discusses twelve spiritual practices, but as she says, each practice is "an exercise in being human that requires a body as well as a soul." From the introduction: "What is saving in my life now is the conviction that there is no spiritual treasure to be found apart from the bodily experiences of human life on earth. My life depends on engaging the most ordinary physical activ...more
I got a free hardback copy of this book a little over two years ago, shortly before I moved out of a longtime home into an apartment. One day when I was in my empty apartment-to-be to do some measuring, I left the book there intentionally, in the cabinet under the bathroom sink, thinking it would be safe there. Between then and when I moved in, they had the apartment cleaned, and the book was there no more.
I'm hoping whoever cleaned the place didn't throw the book away. I'm hoping she...more
I'm hoping whoever cleaned the place didn't throw the book away. I'm hoping she...more
When I read in my church newsletter that this book was chosen by one of the church's study groups, I thought it sounded interesting and decided to read it on my own as a Lenten activity. The author describes ways that we can experience God in everyday activities. From the book jacket: "Taylor reveals meaningful ways to discover the sacred in the small things we do and see...something as ordinary as hanging clothes on a clothesline becomes an act of meditation if we pay attention to what ...more
I put this book on my "read" shelf, though it could also be on my "currently-reading" list, as I have read most of the chapters, albeit not in order.
I loved the chapter on pain and suffering (which sounds strange), but I read it when I had been mildly-ill for a few weeks. Certainly put my illness in perspective, and she really articulated how we are awakened and called to when we're sick (at least that's how I interpreted it having read it months ago now).
...more
I loved the chapter on pain and suffering (which sounds strange), but I read it when I had been mildly-ill for a few weeks. Certainly put my illness in perspective, and she really articulated how we are awakened and called to when we're sick (at least that's how I interpreted it having read it months ago now).
...more
I wondered how I had forgotten that the whole world is the House of God. Who had persuaded me that God preferred four walls and a roof to wide-open spaces? When had I made the subtle switch myself, becoming convinced that church bodies and buildings were the safest and most reliable places to encounter the living God? (p. 4, An Altar in the World)
Thus it is that Barbara Brown Taylor begins finding altars in the world as places where even the most reverent or the most jaded among...more
Thus it is that Barbara Brown Taylor begins finding altars in the world as places where even the most reverent or the most jaded among...more
This is the first book by Barbara Brown Taylor that I've read, so I can't compare it to Leaving Church. Instead, I found myself comparing it to Kathleen Norris' Cloister Walk. While Norris writes more personal memoir and reflections, the preacher in Barbara Brown Taylor comes out in this book and I end up hearing these chapters more as sermons. I think I was hoping for something denser-for-reading - the chapters sometimes felt to me like they were repeating the same idea more than necessary, but...more
Barbara Brown Taylor writes so well. I always enjoy reading her periodic articles in "Christian Century," or her sermons that have been incorporated into the lectionary resource, textweek.com. This book came to my attention when one of our sister churches used it for a reading group. When I saw it on a remainder shelf at Half-Price Books, I picked it up.
I'm glad I did. I won't say that the book changed my life. Rev. Taylor, though, has a firm grasp on the idea of finding...more
I'm glad I did. I won't say that the book changed my life. Rev. Taylor, though, has a firm grasp on the idea of finding...more
The main point of Barbara Brown Taylor's excellent small book is that, whatever one's religious faith or belief, it's lived in the concrete acts of the body rather than the abstract meanderings of the mind. In a sense, there's nothing new in the book, especially for those who are familiar with the writings of Thomas Merton and/or the desert mothers and fathers who Taylor acknowledges as influences. Like them, she writes with exceptional clarity about the place of prayer, pain, work, rest and a...more
I am always needing to believe that God is bigger and wider and deeper and more gracious and closer to me than I think that he is. This book was the kind of book that helped me believe that. It is also the kind of book that I wanted to be much longer than it was, and the kind that I want to buy for every person I know. These are my favorite kind of books. Taylor is able to begin with the everyday sometimes painful, sometimes mundane, usually busy tangible life and clearly articulate what she see...more
Although I didn't get hold of the book in time to join the online discussion, An Altar in the World was recommended to me by the http://RevGalBlogPals.blogspot.com group. I wasn't completely sure about reading it, as I had very mixed feelings about Barbara Brown Taylor's previous book, Leaving Church. But in this newer book, Taylor seems to have become much more grounded than she seemed in Leaving Church, so I guess her decision to leave parish ministry was the right one for her and for us, her ...more
Taylor, an Episcopal priest who now teaches at Piedmont College and Columbia Theological Seminary, has written an excellent, highly readable book on spirituality and pracitcal spiritual disciplines.
Some of the practices that she describes, such as walking meditation, pilgrimages, fasting, prayer, have long histories. But, most of what she advocates are things that we do in everyday life.
Taylor says that "All of life is holy, and that every activity harbors and opp...more
Some of the practices that she describes, such as walking meditation, pilgrimages, fasting, prayer, have long histories. But, most of what she advocates are things that we do in everyday life.
Taylor says that "All of life is holy, and that every activity harbors and opp...more
Our group really enjoyed the beautiful writing, and all could relate to it. We had a good discussion. Did not raise any difficult issues among us. (Wellesley)
Rich book about how to notice ways to bring G-d into daily life. Made for a good discussion about what we do, and aspire to do. No offensive content. (Review by Cambridge2)
Taylor's 12 chapters mine the potentially sacred meaning of simple daily activities and conditions, like walking, paying attention, saying no to wo...more
Rich book about how to notice ways to bring G-d into daily life. Made for a good discussion about what we do, and aspire to do. No offensive content. (Review by Cambridge2)
Taylor's 12 chapters mine the potentially sacred meaning of simple daily activities and conditions, like walking, paying attention, saying no to wo...more
A pleasure to read this wonderfully written book on living an embodied, earthy, attentive faith. "In a world of too much information about almost everything, bodily practices can provide great relief. To make bread or love, to dig in the earth, to feed an animal or cook for a stranger...Most of these tasks are so full of pleasure that there is no need to complicate thing by calling them holy. And yet these are the same activities that change lives, sometimes all at once and sometimes mor...more
This is a thoughtful book and nicely written. I can understand why many readers like it. For me it didn't resonate as it seemed to be all about herself and her interpretation of experiences that she had once had. I suspect that she might have been trying to keep from sounding preachy, and in this she succeeded. To me, it seemed more like a rambling diary with only loose organization under the chapter titles. After a couple of chapters, I became impatient and skimmed the rest of the book, ev...more
Suzanne
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Recommended to Suzanne by:
Linda Thomson
Shelves:
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spirituality
I've been reading this a chapter at a time with my Benedictine spirituality group. BBT is so down-to-earth and eloquent at the same time. Each chapter contained so many nuggets of wisdom that i'm glad I took a while to read this book. I plan to keep it and re-visit chapters on occasion as I'm sure I'll continue to 'discover' new truths among the pages. I saw that another reviewer said her favorite chapter was the chapter on pain and suffering, and I'd have to say I agree; that chapter really...more
This book contains 12 chapters on different types of spirituality written by Barbara Brown Taylor, a former female Episcopalian priest. I could identify with most of the ideas presented in the various chapters. I was particulary inspired by Chapter 6. She writes of inclusivity vs. exclusivity as it exists in all or most aspects of our personal or collective value systems. As a Roman Catholic Christian I feel I have grown to appreciate Christ's concept of inclusiveness. As the author points ...more
There are some books that you love, and some books that you hate, and some books that have a strange sort of hold on your soul that oscillates between the two for the sheer power of it--this is one of the third kind.
Taylor's prose is incredibly accessible and easy-going, and the most remarkable thing about this book is that she wasn't saying a whole lot that I didn't already know. Most of the observations she makes are things I've been aware of for a while--but it's the power of seeing th...more
Taylor's prose is incredibly accessible and easy-going, and the most remarkable thing about this book is that she wasn't saying a whole lot that I didn't already know. Most of the observations she makes are things I've been aware of for a while--but it's the power of seeing th...more
So far, I am slightly disappointed. I guess, I expected something as thoughtful and inspired as was Leaving Church. This is not quite on the same level.
One note: in the introduction B.B. Taylor suggests that you can read the chapters in any order. I did, starting with chapters I was interested in most. I wish I went straight through, I think I would have enjoyed the book more that way. If you're like me, you'd like to read the whole thing in order.
When she writes a...more
One note: in the introduction B.B. Taylor suggests that you can read the chapters in any order. I did, starting with chapters I was interested in most. I wish I went straight through, I think I would have enjoyed the book more that way. If you're like me, you'd like to read the whole thing in order.
When she writes a...more
This book is not about religion but more about how to express your spirituality through your senses, walking and truly listening, your interaction with others, using your survival skills, and being aware of your body. This book challenged me to stop and take a deep breath and find my spiritual connection. It also challenged me to get off the cow's path (you have to read the book) and not be so afraid of new things, feeling awkward, or wondering what others are thinking. Barbara Brown Taylor i...more
What a beautiful book. If you are a poet, if you are a lover of words, if you are a lover of all things beautiful and want to know how this works together with your faith, you should read this. This is a book of doing, of "spiritual practices" like paying attention, wearing skin and getting lost. Get ready, the paperback cover is going to be gorgeous, and you're going to want to buy this book for both the outside AND what's inside.
I found this book very thought provoking. It was definitely a different way to view christianity then I had been used to. I am doing a Catholic Bible study while reading this book so it was an interesting contrast. Although some of her ideas where "out there", she was able to tie in her thoughts by the end of the chapter. I may not agree with everything she wrote but it was definitely worth reading and considering.
This book didn't so much change my life as it affirmed my life. Taylor is the voice that is missing from the Roman Catholic pulpit: the voice of the feminine. She is eloquently ecumenical, filled with humility, and filled with stories that speak to the heart. I could not put the book down. Every once in a while a book comes along that makes me sob and rejoice all at the same time. This one did that on the last page. It left me filled with enough sorrow and joy to embrace my humanity, put m...more
I loved every minute of this book! Barbara Brown Taylor instructs without being preachy. Her sense of humor and phrasing keeps the book moving, enjoyable and real.
After reading it I taught my Sunday School class using the book as a guide, one chapter per Sunday. It was a very popular class. My copy of the book is dog eared and highlighted with notes in the margin, a rarity for me.
After reading it I taught my Sunday School class using the book as a guide, one chapter per Sunday. It was a very popular class. My copy of the book is dog eared and highlighted with notes in the margin, a rarity for me.
Barbara Brown Taylor described many ways outside the Church where she was able to identify an alter, where she could be in prayer and see/feel the work of God. For me, I needed to read slowly and frequently reread to be able to grasp the ideas she was expressing. In other words, it was a very thought provoking read for me. It is a book that almost needs to be reread to get the full impact of the author's lesson. I do recommend it to anyone who is seeking spiritual awareness. 9/2010
I didn't even want to read this book. It's subtitle is: A Geography of Faith. Poh.
But it is so appropriate after the Omnivore's Dilemma. She even quotes some of the same people.
Be aware of the good things in life. Know where your food and blessings come from. Be thankful. Be kind. Things I need to be reminded of.
When she does get preachy - she backs down and somehow I was OK with it.
But it is so appropriate after the Omnivore's Dilemma. She even quotes some of the same people.
Be aware of the good things in life. Know where your food and blessings come from. Be thankful. Be kind. Things I need to be reminded of.
When she does get preachy - she backs down and somehow I was OK with it.
Barbara Brown Taylor's story of her journey of faith is so engrossing and easy to read. She writes as though she's your best friend--never preachy or "religious"--just REAL! The structure of her memoir is such that any part can be read at any time and it will make complete sense. Beautiful writing that really spoke to me. A definite must!
I just finished this amazing book and cannot recommend it highly enough. A must read for anyone who enjoys excellent writing, incredible insight...more
I just finished this amazing book and cannot recommend it highly enough. A must read for anyone who enjoys excellent writing, incredible insight...more
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Taylor is as down-to-earth as there ever was. For her, prayer is washing baseboards and hanging fresh laundry on the line. Spirituality is walking the earth, eating common meals, blessing anything and everything. There is no great science or rulebook to faith, only a willingness to do something. The doing will teach you everything you need to know.
Finding God in the simple tasks of day to day living is the theme of this book. Barbara Brown Taylor writes movingly, passionately, and personally. She encourages a spiritual pilrimage that is outside the confines of organized religion (Leaving Church) and available to all who simply open their eyes to rejoice in the wonders of our world.
I read it as part of the book group at Church in August and really enjoyed it, especially the way she talked about how our relationship with God isn't just about being in church, it's in the way we interact with the world and people around us. I liked her take on the Sabbath and importance of rest and the beauty of getting lost once in a while.
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Author Bio
Barbara Brown Taylor’s first trade book was met with widespread critical acclaim, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly and NPR’s Fresh Air. Taylor served All Saints’ Church in downtown Atlanta for nine years as an associate priest before moving to rural north Georgia in 1992 to become rector of Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church in Clarkesville, Georgia. A freque...more
More about Barbara Brown Taylor...
Barbara Brown Taylor’s first trade book was met with widespread critical acclaim, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly and NPR’s Fresh Air. Taylor served All Saints’ Church in downtown Atlanta for nine years as an associate priest before moving to rural north Georgia in 1992 to become rector of Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church in Clarkesville, Georgia. A freque...more
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“Wisdom is not gained by knowing what is right. Wisdom is gained by practicing what is right, and noticing what happens when that practice succeeds and when it fails.”
—
12 people liked it
“People encounter God under shady oak trees, on riverbanks, at the tops of mountains, and in long stretches of barren wilderness. God shows up in whirlwinds, starry skies, burning bushes, and perfect strangers. When people want to know more about God, the son of God tells them to pay attention to the lilies of the field and the birds of the air, to women kneading bread and workers lining up for their pay. Whoever wrote this stuff believed that people could learn as much about the ways of God from paying attention to the world as they could from paying attention to scripture. What is true is what happens, even if what happens is not always right. People can learn as much about the ways of God from business deals gone bad or sparrows falling to the ground as they can from reciting the books of the Bible in order. They can learn as much from a love affair or a wildflower as they can from knowing the Ten Commandments by heart.”
—
8 people liked it
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