The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism

"""Mysticism is not mystifying at all, but simple, always available, and utterly clarifying. Carl McColman's much-needed book will allow you to experience this for yourself! Christians and all Seekers will find both meat and dessert in such a full meal."" --Richard Rohr ""A wise and supportive guidebook for those going deeper on the Christian mystical path. This book is grounded in sound scholarship and thoughtful reflection, but what makes it sing is the authenticity of the author's own contemplative journey."" --Rev. Cynthia Bourgeault, author of Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening and The Wisdom Jesus ""If you identify as Christian, make this book a new Gospel. If you are not, read it as a catalyst to finding the mystic heart of your own spiritual identity."" --Rabbi Rami Shapiro, author of Perennial Wisdom for the Spiritually Independent ""Comprehensive, accessible, and dynamic, Carl McColman's New Big Book of Christian Mysticism is a masterpiece! Offering a rich mix of history, clear explanation, attention to the social dimension, inclusivity, community, and resources for further learning, The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism leads us gently into the deeply ordinary, very human, keenly subversive and joyful activity we simply call contemplation. A must-read for every spiritual seeker!"" --Carmen Acevedo Butcher, translator of The Cloud of Unknowing, Practice of the Presence by Brother Lawrence, and Hildegard of Bingen ""Carl McColman's The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism is accessible for those brand new to mysticism and a deep dive for those who have been studying it a lifetime. In this new edition, McColman explores mysticism's direct connection to topics like embodiment, social justice, eroticism, and sexuality, inviting the reader into mysticism's aliveness."" --Cassidy Hall, award-winning filmmaker, podcaster, and author of Queering Contemplation: Finding Queerness in the Roots and Future of Contemplative Spirituality ""A mystic is one whose eyes are open to seeing the Eternal in every fleeting moment of human life on this earth, and whose heart is open to the Love that permeates each and every thing in this universe. This new volume lays out more of the rich treasures of the Christian tradition for those aspiring to awaken their mystic heart."" --Ruben L. F. Habito, author of Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible and Living Zen, Loving God ""Bringing mysticism and contemplation out of the clouds and down to earth, Carl provides everyday mystics and spiritual seekers with a portal to embrace the Presence unceasingly. In this extraordinary contribution, Carl ushers the discussion into contemporary times by noting the ongoing impact of Christian mysticism on struggles for liberation and human dignity. I believe the timeless wisdom contained in this volume will feed and enlighten those who follow in our footsteps."" --Lerita Coleman Brown, professor of psychology emerita, spiritual companion, and author of What Makes You Come Alive: A Spiritual Walk with Howard Thurman ""With The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism, Carl McColman has reawakened in me that deep, radical, relational tenderness that first called me into the practices and lineage of Christian mysticism. This book offers helpful definition without ceasing to dance, and makes present both the mystery of Presence and the wonderful companionship of those who have gone before us."" --Alana Levandoski, singer-songwriter whose albums include Behold, I Make All Things New and Hymns from the Icons"