Praying Naked: The Spirituality of Anthony de Mello

by J. Francis Stroud

In his books Awareness and The Way to Love, among others, the internationally acclaimed spiritual guide Anthony de Mello presented an approach to spirituality that integrated the ancient traditions of the East with the psychological and philosophical perspectives of the West. Twenty years after his death, de Mello’s books continue to attract readers and his work remains a powerful influence on contemporary spiritual thought and practices. J. Francis Stroud, S.J., who helped de Mello with his hugely successful lectures, seminars, and books, has dedicated himself to keeping de Mello’s teachings alive through the de Mello Spirituality Center at Fordham University. In Praying Naked , Father Stroud draws on his peerless understanding of de Mello’s works to help readers keep their lives on track and navigate their own spiritual journeys. In clear, simple language, he explains how to master de Mello’s approach to meditation and shows that meditating for even as little as three minutes a day can resolve the problems caused by difficult life conditions and guide us on the quest for spiritual happiness, self-discovery, and self-awareness.

Genres: Spirituality

256 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2005

Reviews

[Jana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like de Mello, and would recommend anyone who is interested in his “spirituality” to take up one of his own books. This was good, but not as good as from the horse’s mouth.

[Sonni Estill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book for those who look at religion and spirituality through a different lens. I think readers will find the message thought provoking and stop to digest with moments of self reflection and consideration for viewing the world and others in a true hopefully less filtered light.

[Pete Kowalski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book, I suspect I'll be reading it over and over just as I do with Awareness. Probably not quite as good as Awareness, but Stroud brings together a wide range of De Mello's teachings. I would highly recommend it to anyone, no matter where you are in life, whether you what to be more spiritual or don't care, whether you are having problems, or feeling great.

It is not only an interesting read, it is an easy read. The information contained in the 117 pages can truly enhance ones life.

If you read this and like it, read Awareness by Anthony De Mello next. These two books will lead to shedding the mask society has put on your face and the dropping of the illusions many of us have about this world and how we interact with it.

[Renee Newell-Boucher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely book, one I would like to re-read from time to time. Very easy to digest, common sense material that we all need to remind ourselves of. Love is the most important gift of all, and practicing the power of the present moment, these were the basic premises of the book. In a world where multi tasking is viewed as necessity and stimulation is constant, we are all in need of a reminder to live in the present moment. How can one get to know God if you don't take the time to listen to him?

[Annie]

This book was given to me by a great friend who I admire for her spirituality. Praying Naked gives great insight on how to improve your spirituality and relationship with God. An easy book to do one chapter at a time.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very feel good read!

[Elizabeth Olson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy reading collection of writings, centered on anecdotes reminding us to stay in the present moment, and to stay present to love.