God's Passionate Desire: And Our Response

by William A. Barry

Presuming a passionate desire on God's part for an intimate relationship with each one of us, Father Barry presents a collection of 17 meditations to serve as steps toward that encounter. Enlivened by a rich array of stories, poetry, and quotations, the meditations feature the works of John Donne, C.S. Lewis, Flannery O'Conner, J.D. Salinger, and others.

Genres: Faith

143 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1993

About the author

William (Bill) Barry, a distinguished spiritual director and author, was born in Worchester, MA. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1950, studied philosophy in Germany from 1953 until 1956, and was at Weston College for theology studies from 1959 until 1963. Ordained a priest in 1962, Barry went on to earn a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan in 1968.

In 1969, he began teaching psychology at Weston School of Theology, Cambridge, MA, and in 1971 was named director for the Center for Religious Development. He served in both capacities until 1978, when he was put in charge of formation for the New England Jesuit Province. Barry was the Assistant Director of Novices for the Province (1985-88) when he was named Rector of Boston College.

From 1991 to 1997, he served as Provincial of the New England Jesuits. Following that, he was named co-director of the Jesuit Tertianship Program. Barry directs retreats at Campion Center in Weston, MA.

Despite such a busy and committed life, Barry found the time to write 15 books, including The Practice of Spiritual Direction, God and You, Finding God in All Things, Spiritual Direction and the Encounter with God, Who Do You Say I Am?, With an Everlasting Love, and A Friendship Like No Other.

Barry has the rare ability to present complex spiritual issues in clear, well-written prose. He is one of the most influential Ignatian commentators at work today.

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The highest praise I can give this book is that it was too short. I love Fr. Barry's insights into our relationship with God and how it can grow. He passionately articulates God's desire to love us (each one, individually). I have a whole stack of his other books ready to read.

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

helpful to remember that relationship with God is a process (no instant gratification). As with a human being.