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The Soul's Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred
What does God want for your life?
Christine Valters Paintner, bestselling Catholic author and online abbess for Abbey of the Arts, uses reflections, stories, guided activities, prayer experiences, and a variety of creative arts to help you patiently and attentively listen to God’s invitation.
Everyone wants to understand God’s will for their lives. Christine Valters Paintner shares one of the most ancient paths to understanding from her study of monasticism and immersion into Celtic spirituality while living in Ireland. The Celtic way, which Paintner distills into twelve practices, offers discernment that focuses on the environment rather than the intellectual focus present in other forms of discernment. It allows for what Paintner calls the “soul’s slow ripening,” coming into the fullness of our own sweetness before we pluck the fruit.
Each chapter begins with a story of a particular Irish saint—some well-known like Patrick or Brigid, others less so, such as Ita and Ciaran—and then introduces a helpful practice for discernment that the saint’s life illustrates. Paintner explores the call of dreams, the importance of thresholds, the practice of peregrination (wandering for the love of God), walking the rounds, learning by heart, soul friends, blessing each moment, and the wisdom of the landscape and the seasons. Readers are invited to explore these concepts through photography and writing. She invites us to contemplative walks with specific themes along with poetic writing prompts for expression.
As you explore an alternate way of discerning a spiritual path—one which honors the moment-by-moment invitations and the soul’s seasonal rhythms—you will discover that this book will help you become more aligned with creativity and wholeness.
Christine Valters Paintner, bestselling Catholic author and online abbess for Abbey of the Arts, uses reflections, stories, guided activities, prayer experiences, and a variety of creative arts to help you patiently and attentively listen to God’s invitation.
Everyone wants to understand God’s will for their lives. Christine Valters Paintner shares one of the most ancient paths to understanding from her study of monasticism and immersion into Celtic spirituality while living in Ireland. The Celtic way, which Paintner distills into twelve practices, offers discernment that focuses on the environment rather than the intellectual focus present in other forms of discernment. It allows for what Paintner calls the “soul’s slow ripening,” coming into the fullness of our own sweetness before we pluck the fruit.
Each chapter begins with a story of a particular Irish saint—some well-known like Patrick or Brigid, others less so, such as Ita and Ciaran—and then introduces a helpful practice for discernment that the saint’s life illustrates. Paintner explores the call of dreams, the importance of thresholds, the practice of peregrination (wandering for the love of God), walking the rounds, learning by heart, soul friends, blessing each moment, and the wisdom of the landscape and the seasons. Readers are invited to explore these concepts through photography and writing. She invites us to contemplative walks with specific themes along with poetic writing prompts for expression.
As you explore an alternate way of discerning a spiritual path—one which honors the moment-by-moment invitations and the soul’s seasonal rhythms—you will discover that this book will help you become more aligned with creativity and wholeness.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 7, 2018
134 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Christine Valters Paintner
30 books142 followersChristine Valters Paintner, PhD is the online Abbess at AbbeyoftheArts.com, a virtual monastery and global community. She is the author of over 20 books on contemplative practice and creative expression including three collections of poetry. She lives in Galway, Ireland where she leads online retreats with her husband John. Christine is a Benedictine oblate, living out her commitment as a monk in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 18, 2018
Unique and useful insights shared for our growth spiritually as we pursue our faith life and journey. Ms Paintner is adept at instructing new thought and practice, gently and creatively. Which is essential to our comprehension and willingness to interpret life changes.
Moving in these new directions of discernment the creative responses inspired by our "soul's slow ripening" to sweetness is pure art.. The Celtic ways and practices presented resonate at deeper and creative levels than a sole focus of the intellectual discernment.
I'm delighted to have these options and examples from early saints. As well as learning to hear and heed the seasonal calls and rhythms of God's Spirit. Invitations to themed contemplative walks, inspiring writing, art, poetry all influenced by God's creation in landscape and seasons, will undoubtedly influence a new way of seeing and being.
I, for one, am grateful. And as a spiritual director, anam cara soul friend, this also is an exploration of benefit to the blessing of others.
Recommended.
Moving in these new directions of discernment the creative responses inspired by our "soul's slow ripening" to sweetness is pure art.. The Celtic ways and practices presented resonate at deeper and creative levels than a sole focus of the intellectual discernment.
I'm delighted to have these options and examples from early saints. As well as learning to hear and heed the seasonal calls and rhythms of God's Spirit. Invitations to themed contemplative walks, inspiring writing, art, poetry all influenced by God's creation in landscape and seasons, will undoubtedly influence a new way of seeing and being.
I, for one, am grateful. And as a spiritual director, anam cara soul friend, this also is an exploration of benefit to the blessing of others.
Recommended.
March 9, 2022
I found this book quite by accident and in my experience of being an avid reader, the "accidental" finds are usually the best and most fulfilling. This is my first encounter reading Christine Valters Paintner and I've become a fan. Paintner takes the reader through twelve practices from the Celtic Christianity tradition in leading the reader through periods of discernment and contemplation; the practice of thresholds, dreaming, peregrinario (the call to wander) and place of resurrection,blessing each moment, soul friendship (Anam Cara);encircling, walking the rounds, learning by heart, solitude and silence, seasonal cycles, and landscape as theophany. I won't share the details of each practice; it takes too much space, and you would need to discover the meanings for yourself. God brought this book to my attention during a period where I am in discernment about returning home to be closer to family (and grandkids). This book is beneficial for clergy and laity; those making and discerning faith journeys. If I were teaching a course on spirituality or was asked to recommend various texts for the course, this would be my "go to". I sense that I will be referring to it often.
April 27, 2023
This was my introduction to Celtic Christianity. I was not too big a fan. The chapter on thresholds was really good. After that the book went downhill for me.
April 18, 2024
Beautiful! I LOVED this author’s approach and perspective and will be reading more from her.
June 9, 2022
I have not yet been to Ireland, but I have long been enchanted by the imagery of lush green landscapes, and I am drawn to the theological themes and poetry of Celtic Christian prayers and practices. So I came to Christine Valters Paintner’s book, The Soul’s Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred, with an expectation of delight, spiritual resonance, and familiarity. I found all three, but I was also pleasantly surprised by the uniqueness of some of the Celtic practices she describes.
The practices included here are Thresholds, Dreaming, Peregrinatio and Seeking Your Place of Resurrection, Blessing Each Moment, Soul Friendship, Encircling, Walking the Rounds, Learning by Heart, Solitude and Silence, Seasonal Cycles, Landscape as Theophany, and Three Essential Things. Some of these I have learned about, studied, and practiced, in spiritual formation classes or out of personal interest. Others, such as Walking the Rounds, were quite new to me, and fascinating.
I found myself in a hurry to try to take it all in, to learn about everything as quickly as possible. But this is a book to savor, to read slowly and with intention, pausing frequently to reflect, to digest, to engage the practices suggested in each chapter. Paintner has written an introduction to these specific Celtic Christian practices that has the contemplative spirit of invitation and gentle attentiveness one might experience in spiritual direction, or on a retreat. She provides intellectual and historical background, personal experience and anecdotes, and guidance in how to engage the practices in creative and embodied ways.
Paintner also engages each practice through the lens of discernment, “a way of listening to our lives and the world around us and responding to the invitations that call us into deeper alignment with our soul’s deep desires and the desires God has for us” (p. xvii). As someone who seems to be always in discernment about whether I am “on the right path,” or living in the center of God’s desires for my life, I think I will be rereading these chapters over time, to let the poetry and deep spiritual insight wash over me again when I need to be reminded of the grace and beauty of the journey.
I especially recommend The Soul’s Slow Ripening for lovers of Celtic Christianity, practitioners of Christian spiritual formation, contemplatives, people seeking to discern some question or choice in life, and fans of Irish history and culture, but would not hesitate to lend this out to someone with no experience in any of these subjects, who was merely curious or intrigued by the title or cover. Well worth the time to read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The practices included here are Thresholds, Dreaming, Peregrinatio and Seeking Your Place of Resurrection, Blessing Each Moment, Soul Friendship, Encircling, Walking the Rounds, Learning by Heart, Solitude and Silence, Seasonal Cycles, Landscape as Theophany, and Three Essential Things. Some of these I have learned about, studied, and practiced, in spiritual formation classes or out of personal interest. Others, such as Walking the Rounds, were quite new to me, and fascinating.
I found myself in a hurry to try to take it all in, to learn about everything as quickly as possible. But this is a book to savor, to read slowly and with intention, pausing frequently to reflect, to digest, to engage the practices suggested in each chapter. Paintner has written an introduction to these specific Celtic Christian practices that has the contemplative spirit of invitation and gentle attentiveness one might experience in spiritual direction, or on a retreat. She provides intellectual and historical background, personal experience and anecdotes, and guidance in how to engage the practices in creative and embodied ways.
Paintner also engages each practice through the lens of discernment, “a way of listening to our lives and the world around us and responding to the invitations that call us into deeper alignment with our soul’s deep desires and the desires God has for us” (p. xvii). As someone who seems to be always in discernment about whether I am “on the right path,” or living in the center of God’s desires for my life, I think I will be rereading these chapters over time, to let the poetry and deep spiritual insight wash over me again when I need to be reminded of the grace and beauty of the journey.
I especially recommend The Soul’s Slow Ripening for lovers of Celtic Christianity, practitioners of Christian spiritual formation, contemplatives, people seeking to discern some question or choice in life, and fans of Irish history and culture, but would not hesitate to lend this out to someone with no experience in any of these subjects, who was merely curious or intrigued by the title or cover. Well worth the time to read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
December 16, 2018
This review first appeared on my blog, Jacob's Café (jacobscafe.blogspot.com).
The Celtic traditions have long held deep meaning for me. There's something about the Incarnational and holistic approach that makes it theologically and practically impactful and relevant in my mind. I have been a reader of Christine Valters Paintner's devotionals and work for a few years now, and love her spirit and wisdom.
All of this made me interested in her newly released book, The Soul's Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred. What is unique about Paintner's approach is that she provides a personal spiritual story, some historical background, biblical reflections, and concrete spiritual formation-type activities, including lectio divina and even photography, to help bring these practices home.
I also appreciate that her husband, John, regularly contributes to the reflections and applications of the practices. Another voice and perspective, albeit aligned nicely, bring additional context and wisdom to the text.
Paintner explicitly states that this book can be read from front to back, but also can be digested in any order desired. It really is that flexible, allowing the reader to dive into whatever practice is most relevant at a given moment. The subheadings and different aspects presented to each practice not only make them more concrete and readily applicable, but also provide easy moments to pause in readings and pick back up.
This isn't necessarily a book that one would read once through for lessons, although it could be used that way. Rather, it could be more of a reference tool, being picked up at different phases of life for wisdom and spiritual suggestions. There's enough variety and diversity that I can see it being useful in many contexts and phases of life.
It has enough philosophy and theology that it can have meaningful depth for those desiring traditional substance. It also has excellent practicality that it doesn't feel too "spiritual," abstract, or philosophical. The Paintners both come across as very practical to me, striking an excellent balance between Heaven and Earth.
If you're interested in Celtic traditions, this is an excellent addition, either for early explorers or even those seasoned in Celtic Christianity and spiritual formation.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The Celtic traditions have long held deep meaning for me. There's something about the Incarnational and holistic approach that makes it theologically and practically impactful and relevant in my mind. I have been a reader of Christine Valters Paintner's devotionals and work for a few years now, and love her spirit and wisdom.
All of this made me interested in her newly released book, The Soul's Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred. What is unique about Paintner's approach is that she provides a personal spiritual story, some historical background, biblical reflections, and concrete spiritual formation-type activities, including lectio divina and even photography, to help bring these practices home.
I also appreciate that her husband, John, regularly contributes to the reflections and applications of the practices. Another voice and perspective, albeit aligned nicely, bring additional context and wisdom to the text.
Paintner explicitly states that this book can be read from front to back, but also can be digested in any order desired. It really is that flexible, allowing the reader to dive into whatever practice is most relevant at a given moment. The subheadings and different aspects presented to each practice not only make them more concrete and readily applicable, but also provide easy moments to pause in readings and pick back up.
This isn't necessarily a book that one would read once through for lessons, although it could be used that way. Rather, it could be more of a reference tool, being picked up at different phases of life for wisdom and spiritual suggestions. There's enough variety and diversity that I can see it being useful in many contexts and phases of life.
It has enough philosophy and theology that it can have meaningful depth for those desiring traditional substance. It also has excellent practicality that it doesn't feel too "spiritual," abstract, or philosophical. The Paintners both come across as very practical to me, striking an excellent balance between Heaven and Earth.
If you're interested in Celtic traditions, this is an excellent addition, either for early explorers or even those seasoned in Celtic Christianity and spiritual formation.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 18, 2024
Enjoyable but a word of CAUTION....
I enjoyed this book. How could I not? Christine Valters Paintner has written an excellent guide into Celtic spirituality. Many of these practices were new to me, and I can see how they could bring depth and new insight into my walk with the Lord. I had dabbled with "Learning by Heart", "Silence and Solitude", and "Seasonal Cycles" before reading this book. What I learned from the book strengthened my resolve to continue in these practices and hopefully reap the rewards of a deeper, more intentional spiritual life. I intend to incorporate some of the new practices that resonated with me as well i.e. "Walking the Rounds", "Thresholds", and "Blessing Each Moment". The book was well-researched and engaging. I find it to be useful, so why the word of CAUTION?
This book will be a great read for those who already have an established faith that is grounded in the scriptures. These Celtic monks/saints that Paintner discusses were extremely ground in God's word and in a biblical worldview. Monks memorized entire books of the Bible and so had a rich well of biblical knowledge to draw from as they worked out these "practices". Most of them were literate with access to scrolls and biblical texts in addition to their rich history of illuminating them artistically. Without pairing the scriptures to these "spiritual" practices, one could easily veer off into mysticism or an over emphasis on "self"... "What does all this mean for me?" "What am I discovering?" "What is unfolding in my own heart, mind, life?" "What is holding me back right now?" These questions go on and on.... and yes, one can experience God in the seasons and in nature and in thresholds and in silence and wandering, but with out the rock of His word, we can also get lost on a never-ending journey to find our "authentic self" and miss Him entirely. Again, I really liked the book but I would never recommend it to an unseasoned Christian. To get the most out of this book, it should be paired with a mind already bathed in scripture much like the monks who are revered for having engendered these ancient practices.
I enjoyed this book. How could I not? Christine Valters Paintner has written an excellent guide into Celtic spirituality. Many of these practices were new to me, and I can see how they could bring depth and new insight into my walk with the Lord. I had dabbled with "Learning by Heart", "Silence and Solitude", and "Seasonal Cycles" before reading this book. What I learned from the book strengthened my resolve to continue in these practices and hopefully reap the rewards of a deeper, more intentional spiritual life. I intend to incorporate some of the new practices that resonated with me as well i.e. "Walking the Rounds", "Thresholds", and "Blessing Each Moment". The book was well-researched and engaging. I find it to be useful, so why the word of CAUTION?
This book will be a great read for those who already have an established faith that is grounded in the scriptures. These Celtic monks/saints that Paintner discusses were extremely ground in God's word and in a biblical worldview. Monks memorized entire books of the Bible and so had a rich well of biblical knowledge to draw from as they worked out these "practices". Most of them were literate with access to scrolls and biblical texts in addition to their rich history of illuminating them artistically. Without pairing the scriptures to these "spiritual" practices, one could easily veer off into mysticism or an over emphasis on "self"... "What does all this mean for me?" "What am I discovering?" "What is unfolding in my own heart, mind, life?" "What is holding me back right now?" These questions go on and on.... and yes, one can experience God in the seasons and in nature and in thresholds and in silence and wandering, but with out the rock of His word, we can also get lost on a never-ending journey to find our "authentic self" and miss Him entirely. Again, I really liked the book but I would never recommend it to an unseasoned Christian. To get the most out of this book, it should be paired with a mind already bathed in scripture much like the monks who are revered for having engendered these ancient practices.
November 5, 2021
There's a lot of good in this book--and there's a lot unclear. Meaning--I don't feel any clear spiritual red flags, but I'm uncertain. Perhaps it's due to me being/raised protestant and the author being Catholic (though I've appreciated learning more). Perhaps I am misinterpreting. It's comforting and encouraging like Aundi Kolber's "Try Softer", fascinating in terms of the history and legends contained, thought-provoking with the creative exercises and Lectio Divina. But at times it does feel like it has a bit of relativism or new age-y ness (and I'm not saying this as a overly sus protestant wary of Catholic beliefs or teaching--I mean this as I'm not sure what even some Catholics would say). I have a love for the mystics, deep thinkers, history, and teaching/practice of the Celtic/desert fathers and mothers. And this book had plenty of all of that. And though there are parts that feel huh? or eh... a bit in spirit, I wouldn't throw out the baby with the bathwater.
November 12, 2020
I've recommended this book to more friends than almost any other book in about five years. I love the invitation to live with greater reflection that is embedded into the teaching of Celtic spirituality. There are so many themes that I come back to over and over again.
I am currently living between houses (five weeks with no home). This time in a "threshold" has become precious and life-giving rather than a trial to be endured because of how Paintner teaches on the topic.
There are a few places that I don't find it easy to theologically accept the ideas taught, but I don't feel that they are presented in a way that I need to make that choice—to accept or not. I feel free to ponder and let the thoughts percolate, even if I don't agree. This is so rewarding...and fun.
I really enjoy reading and following Paintner on her blog and I feel much the richer for having found this book!
I am currently living between houses (five weeks with no home). This time in a "threshold" has become precious and life-giving rather than a trial to be endured because of how Paintner teaches on the topic.
There are a few places that I don't find it easy to theologically accept the ideas taught, but I don't feel that they are presented in a way that I need to make that choice—to accept or not. I feel free to ponder and let the thoughts percolate, even if I don't agree. This is so rewarding...and fun.
I really enjoy reading and following Paintner on her blog and I feel much the richer for having found this book!
May 21, 2022
This book is exactly as advertised. Each chapter details a spiritual practice and includes: a story from Painter's personal experience, a connection to the Celtic Christian mothers and fathers, a passage from scripture, details on the context of that scripture, a guided photography prompt, a guided writing prompt, and an original poem. It's more in-depth an a devotional, and really invites the reader to delve into reflective spiritual practice as an ongoing way of life.
Some of the practices were familiar to me (blessing each moment and learning by heart, for example), some were unfamiliar (peregrinatio and soul friendship, again for example). I found the book both inviting and inspiring.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book through the Speakeasy book review network in exchange for my honest review. #TheSoulsSlowRipening
Some of the practices were familiar to me (blessing each moment and learning by heart, for example), some were unfamiliar (peregrinatio and soul friendship, again for example). I found the book both inviting and inspiring.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book through the Speakeasy book review network in exchange for my honest review. #TheSoulsSlowRipening
June 13, 2024
A book of various practices to help in seeking (experiencing, really) the sacred!
This is the kind of book one can pick up, explore a practice, and find yourself engaged for weeks! I've found that some practices feel organic to past experiences, and I feel like I'm engaged from the first lines. Some of these are the practices of thresholds, solitude and silence, and landscape as theophany. I believe I've been practicing a form of these since before I even considered the Holy! Both empowering and humbling.
Others are truly challenging, as they are either new to me or simply not a way I've experienced holy. These included the practices of encircling, walking the rounds or learning by heart. Fascinating ideas, just ways I've never tried before or which initially seem a bit foreign.
I see this as a book of affirmation, challenge, and growth - maybe in rotation.
This is the kind of book one can pick up, explore a practice, and find yourself engaged for weeks! I've found that some practices feel organic to past experiences, and I feel like I'm engaged from the first lines. Some of these are the practices of thresholds, solitude and silence, and landscape as theophany. I believe I've been practicing a form of these since before I even considered the Holy! Both empowering and humbling.
Others are truly challenging, as they are either new to me or simply not a way I've experienced holy. These included the practices of encircling, walking the rounds or learning by heart. Fascinating ideas, just ways I've never tried before or which initially seem a bit foreign.
I see this as a book of affirmation, challenge, and growth - maybe in rotation.
August 8, 2023
I read the first chapter of this book for a discernment group I'm part of. Being at a threshold in my life right now, at a liminal space, the chapter really resonated with me. I've also always been drawn to Celtic Christianity, so I decided I would continue on and read the following chapters. They all resonated well with me. They are: Thresholds, Dreaming, Peregrinatio, Blessing Each Moment, Soul Friendship, Encircling, Walking the Rounds, Learning by Heart, Solitude and Silence, Seasonal Cycles, Landscape as Theophany, and Three essential things. Each is worth meditating on, and the Lectio Divina, photography practices, and writing practices were all really good.
This would be a good book to do as a whole over and extended period with a group.
This would be a good book to do as a whole over and extended period with a group.
October 29, 2020
The Soul's Slow Ripening has been a fascinating book. We have read it as a group and discussed different chapters each month. The chapter on Dreams was our last one, though it is the second chapter. After the introduction to the idea of paying attention to dreams, reading about Biblical and Celtic characters who responded to dreams, we were encouraged to keep track of dreams we remembered and then reflect on them. It was surprisingly revealing.
Each chapter has enabled new insights into my soul and done it in a gentle yet compelling way.It is a book that I will probably read several times.
Each chapter has enabled new insights into my soul and done it in a gentle yet compelling way.It is a book that I will probably read several times.
September 29, 2022
Soulful Quietness
"Blessing is a way of holding a heart of gratitude for the multitude of gifts we experience every moment." Christine Paintner's book isn't just for reading, it is for experiencing and journeying. It isn't a book for Christians, Hindus, Jews, or those that practice a Celtic tradition. Instead, it is a book for the spirit. Those who are seeking, those who are tired, those who can't find themselves in the midst of the chaos - this book is for you.
"Blessing is a way of holding a heart of gratitude for the multitude of gifts we experience every moment." Christine Paintner's book isn't just for reading, it is for experiencing and journeying. It isn't a book for Christians, Hindus, Jews, or those that practice a Celtic tradition. Instead, it is a book for the spirit. Those who are seeking, those who are tired, those who can't find themselves in the midst of the chaos - this book is for you.
April 8, 2019
This was a great study. I worked through it slowly so I could think about the different practices. I love how the author urges us to be patient with ourselves and focuses on the fact that a spiritual journey is continual process. I kept a notebook to write down quotes that I re-read when I finished the book. I will most likely be reading it again.
May 5, 2020
I listened to this book today. There are many great ideas presented. The format would be better as a book (instead of audio book) so that the practices can be seen, touched, felt. I liked the self reflection questions as well as nature walks and photography and writing exercises. Makes me want to do a retreat and fully immerse myself into discovery.
May 14, 2020
I really like this book. I read it quickly the first time & am now going through it slowly. I particularly like the seasonal aspect of it, bringing the traditional Irish seasonal festivals & pairing them with the Church ones. Of all the books I have read about Celtic Spirituality, this is my favorite.
November 18, 2024
This book explores spiritual practices that were new to me, which made for a rich reading experience. Paintner writes with authenticity and authority, and rounds off each chapter with one of her original poems. I read this book slowly over the course of the summer, as part of my devotional reading. It reads like one long Lectio Divina. Gorgeous and full. Highly recommend.
November 3, 2019
Lovely read
Really enjoyed this book. Reading it brought me closer to my cultural and spiritual roots. Insightful and inspiring I would recommend this to anyone in need of a break from life's anxieties.
Really enjoyed this book. Reading it brought me closer to my cultural and spiritual roots. Insightful and inspiring I would recommend this to anyone in need of a break from life's anxieties.
May 25, 2022
A good “active” (with spiritual practices for each topic) introduction to Celtic Christian spirituality, though this one doesn’t resonate with me as does the author’s The Soul of a Pilgrim and does not have the depth of Esther de Waal’s The Celtic Way of Prayer.
March 27, 2020
Painter has done it again! This is a jewel of a resource that I can go back to again and again for its offering of wisdom and practice.
April 8, 2020
"Breathing slowly, she slides back onto grass and clover and knows nothing surpasses this moment, a heaven of hooves and dew."
July 22, 2020
Repetitive of her other books.
April 24, 2022
This book kept me eager to slowly read and practice the various celtic spiritual practices. Each morning read was a breath of fresh air, and centering t start the day.
March 29, 2023
Just not for me
April 18, 2023
Read this one with a women’s church group. Created interesting discussion. The author encourages using photography, poetry, silence, dreams, and other aspects of life to enrich one’s spiritual life.
October 18, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this exploration of spiritual practices. Gentle and welcoming.
January 25, 2024
Lovely, thoughtful, inspiring book. Many spiritual practices offered. I enjoyed learning about Irish saints. Very enjoyable read.
October 27, 2024
I really liked the creativity in this book and the specific prompts toward growing our own creativity in our faith.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews