Seeking the Beloved: A Prayer Journey with St. John of the Cross

by Wayne Simsic

Prayer is not just time set aside for God or the use of certain techniques—it is primarily an intimate relationship with God the Beloved. If we hunger for a prayer that is deeper than words and that we can bring to every part of our lives, no matter what we are doing, then we can turn to St. John of the Cross as our guide. Retreat master and author Wayne Simsic insists that while it’s easy to write off this saint as an otherworldly ascetic and mystic, he was actually a down-to-earth and wise administrator, poet, and artist whose writings have great relevance for us today. In this book, Simsic helps readers discover the gift of contemplative prayer as unfolded by this Carmelite saint, whose longing for a deep intimacy and union with God can become our longing as well.
•Each chapter ends with helpful suggestions for reflection and prayer.
•Encourages us not only to walk in the “dark night” but to trust it as a time of fertile spiritual growth.

144 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 28, 2012

Reviews

[Pat Loughery · Rating 5 out of 5]

A magnificent summary of the writing, theology and perspective of John of the Cross. Read this if you've tried and stumbled on reading John directly before. Then revisit John.

[Becky Mikel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great intro to St. John of the Cross! I picked up Dark Night of the Soul first, but couldn't make sense of it. Now I get it and am able to read it- after reading Seeking the Beloved. Really good insights on what contemplative prayer is, the meaning of dryness in prayer, and how to know where you are in your prayer journey. Easy to understand and deeply rooted in givenness and receptivity.

[Hilda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading "Seeking The Beloved: A Prayer Journey With St. John of the Cross by Wayne Simsic and I loved it. There were many writings from St. John throughout the book and the author's own wisdom and knowledge about contemplative prayer and meditation were also very helpful. :)

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simsic makes St. John of The Cross understandable and inspiring.