Carmelite Prayer: A Tradition for the 21st Century

by Keith J. Egan (Editor)

In a clear, engaging style, Carmelite Prayer presents and illuminates the historical contemplative tradition for all readers. It provides immediate access to the latest scholarship in Carmelite spirituality with illustrative examples and informed guidance. Compiled by the Carmelite Forum to address the rapidly growing interest in the Carmelite classics and Carmelite prayer, this collection of essays emphasizes contemplation’s vital role in spiritual living and loving action. According to the essays in Carmelite * Contemplative prayer is not a matter of human achievement but is God’s gracious gift to the heart that struggles to be free. * Carmelite classics were not composed merely for the erudite. * Carmelite solitude has always been for the sake of deep inner mindfulness of the presence of a loving God. * The method of meditating is not objectified thinking but pondering the word of God in one’s heart. * Carmelite prayer is not for the sake of experiences but for the sake of loving union with God * Carmelite prayer is Christian prayer shaped by the Word of God, rooted in Christ, celebrated in the liturgy, and expressed in just living. Thoroughly contemporary and pragmatic, this collection of essays provides a clear picture of Carmelite teaching while encouraging a journey of discovery and faith. Recommended for readers interested ―Prayer and contemplative studies ―Spiritual Direction ―Church History †

Genres: Spirituality, Christianity

256 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2003

Reviews

[Les Walters · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are 12 articles in this book by 10 Carmelite authors and on a variety of subjects. I've read and re-read Keith Egans's and a little of a couple of others. All very worthwhile, though not all easy reads. Keith Egan has a good grasp of Carmelite spirituality and writes in a compelling way, much as he lectures.

[Laura Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was a freebie from the MGLs and it is a hidden gem! i loved its balance of orthodoxy and freshness - it offers an ancient tradition to a modern generation. my three favourite essays were 'the solitude of carmelite prayer,' 'thérèse and the eternal shore' and 'passion in the carmelite tradition: edith stein.' i wish it included something by ruth burrows, whose writings firmly confirmed my love for carmelite spirituality, which are also written with such clarity and relevance for our times now.

[Diego Estrada · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lo leí durante un retiro, son diferentes ensayos sobre la espiritualidad carmelita. El mejor es el 5 “Jesus Christ in the Carmelite Prayer” y otro sobre la diferencia entre depresión y “spiritual darkness”.

Leer a Teresa de Ávila o Juan de la Cruz me recuerda lo profundo que es la vida de oración y lo poco que experimentamos en ella por ruido, falta de compromiso y otros factores.