Ways of Imperfection: An Exploration of Christian Spirituality

by Simon Tugwell

Spirituality has to do with a whole Christian vision of life, not simply with methods of prayer or contemplation. Simon Tugwell approaches the subject through the idea of "imperfection," tracing this theme through a series of spiritual writers from different periods of Christian history. He ranges from the Apostolic and Desert Fathers through St. Francis of Assisi and Mother Julian of Norwich to St. Thérese of Lisieux. These are penetrating and illuminating studies which show how from the start and throughout its history the Christian vision is not one for an elite but for everyone, sinners all. The religion of the cross is the religion of failure turned to account, creatively.

Genres: Spirituality, Christianity, Theology, Nonfiction, History, Religion

238 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tugwell's exploration of Christian spirituality as the Way of Imperfection is an interesting twist. So often, Christianity is presented as a mass of rules, regulations, and legalism -- yet, Tugwell presents a different account of the development of Christian spirituality. One meets, in this book, a cast of characters, a band of imperfect women and men all seeking God in their brokenness and being wounded. Tugwell's book is well-researched, but written with a lively style that keeps the reader's interest.

[Jeffrey Kahl · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very selective history of Christian spirituality, viewed mostly through the idea of “imperfection.” We come before God not in our strength or perfect spiritual condition, but in humility and weakness.

[Matt Carpenter · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an overview of Christian spirituality over the first fifteen hundred years of the church. It is helpful, but it is limited in what it can do. The emphasis is on the various Roman Catholic views, as the author is Roman Catholic. Celtic Christian practices are neglected. This does not detract from the book, as long as you understand what it does and does not do. It is well documented and helpful in understanding the unique perspectives of people like Francis of Assisi (my favorite chapter, by the way). It is dense but an interesting book for those who are fascinated by Christian spiritual practice. The title is a point he drives home throughout the book: we will never be perfected here on earth. That's a good reminder, whatever your denomination is.