Anyone read Imitation of Christ?

[Charleston]

To answer a previous poster: I want to read them to gain a little insight into the growth and behavior of the soul. I think that since I’m leaving a dry period right now (finally!!! thanks for your prayers) I should celebrate the spiritually full time by feeding my soul and equiping it before I enter another one. If I understand what’s going on, I’ll be able to handle it better.

Hi Sk,

Ok, let me recommend two titles that haven’t been mentioned yet. These are books you can build your prayer time around as a form of lectio/prayerful reflection.

The first is the Imitation of the Sacred Heart. Originally written in 1846 by Fr. Peter J. Arnoudt, SJ, it reads somewhat like The Imitation of Christ, but is far more lengthy and comprehensive–with more ‘how to’ stuff. It’s wonderful way of developing a mental/inner prayer life centered on the devotion to the Sacred Heart. The readings are set up in short chapters to be used for daily prayerful meditation/lectio.

Find it at: tanbooks.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/73/keywords/+imitation+of+the+sacred+heart+of+jesus+/

Second, is the original (make sure you buy the 1 volume work from Tan, not the 4 volume series from Ignatius Press), Divine Intimacy, by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, O.C.D. It’ a a one year cycle of bi-daily readings regarding Carmelite Spirituality set up in a Teresian method of Lectio. It does follow the pre-Vactian II calendar, but there are several free online sources available. (latin-mass-society.org/ordo.htm)

It’s a great resource that hits the most important aspects of Carmelite spirituality, the best of St. Teresa, St. John and many other notable Carmelites, while at the same time is a practical way of developing one’s prayer life. Before Tan reprinted it last year, Divine Intimacy was fetching $200+ on Ebay and the used book market. Find it at:

tanbooks.com/index.php/page/shop:flypage/product_id/697/keywords/+divine+intimacy+/

Both of these works take you from the beginning aspects of the spiritual life and lead you by the hand (as well as any book can) to greater levels of sanctity and union with God.

Enjoy! :tiphat:

 

[DBT]

Second, is the original (make sure you buy the 1 volume work from Tan, not the 4 volume series from Ignatius Press), Divine Intimacy, by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, O.C.D. It’ a a one year cycle of bi-daily readings regarding Carmelite Spirituality set up in a Teresian method of Lectio. It does follow the pre-Vactian II calendar, but there are several free online sources available. (latin-mass-society.org/ordo.htm)

This is a fantastic book

Dave