Inner Way Toward a Rebirth of Eastern Christian Spiritual Direction

by Joseph J. Allen

Inner Way is a call to reawaken the critical ministry of spiritual direction in which a person, whether in a life crisis or merely seeking Christian growth, can make spiritual gains. The author, an Orthodox Christian priest, writes from within the tradition which gave birth to the practice of spiritual direction. As such, Fr. Allen's book is a view "from the inside," reflecting both theory and practice. The study's central focus is the exploration of spiritual direction as a ministry of the Eastern Church in dialogue with anthropology, sociology, and psychology. Fr. Allen provides a needed resource for all Christians - and especially counselors, spiritual guides, and pastors - who seek to traverse the inner way.

Genres: Spirituality, Church

160 pages, Paperback

First published May 17, 2006

Reviews

[Brian Hohmeier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is fine text on spiritual direction, particularly from the Orthodox perspective, and thus valuable for lifelong students of spiritual direction formed no doubt in primarily Western traditions; however, while Allen has much to say, I'm not sure how much of it ultimately coheres as a unified project, and after very careful groundwork is laid in introducing the traditional concept of the spiritual father/elder, subsequent chapters may appear as rather cursory outlines of considerations and characteristics that surely deserve as careful treatment if Allen's real task was to bring the former into contextual conversation with the latter.

[Steve Bedford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I've read on spiritual direction so far. It lacks some of the practical aspects of some other books, but the Eastern perspective is truly helpful. Too many of the other books I've read lack a solid framework of repentance, boarding on being enabling. This book is not heavy-handed, but does call one toward the truth. The format is much more academic as well, which I counted as a plus.

[Deb Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I am not Eastern Orthodox, this was one of my favorite books on Spiritual Direction. Joseph Allen did a wonderful job of tapping into the inner work of reconciliation and healing through this ancient ministry.

[Zecchaeus Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything that was said was good but seemed obvious to me. Maybe this is because I have already gone through a year-long program which was centered on Christian use of counseling and direction?

[peter m. dubinin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent treatment of a critical task, requirement for clergy in the Orthodox Church. A must read for those considering priesthood.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I've ever read about spiritual direction. I'll write a full review once I'm done with it.