Soul Feast: An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life

by Marjorie J. Thompson

Few books in Westminster John Knox's publishing history have been so embraced and so loved as Marjorie Thompson's Soul Feast . First released in 1995, this spiritual classic continues to be a best-seller, as thousands each year accept her invitation to the Christian spiritual life. Offering a framework for understanding the spiritual disciplines and instruction for developing and nurturing those practices, Soul Feast continues to be a favorite for individual reflection and group study. Now engagingly redesigned to appeal to contemporary spiritual-seekers and repackaged for easier use in study and reflection, Soul Feast is a must-have.

Genres: Spirituality, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian, Theology, Religion, Faith

208 pages, Paperback

First published July 31, 1995

About the author

Marjorie J. Thompson is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). She received her B.A. in religious studies from Swarthmore College, and her M.Div. from McCormick Theological Seminary. Following a post-graduate pastoral internship, she became a Research Fellow at Yale Divinity School where she studied Christian spirituality with Henri Nouwen and did independent research in ecumenical traditions of prayer. She has served as director of the Pathways Center for Spiritual Leadership and as spiritual director to Companions in Christ, a program outgrowth of the Pathways initiative of Upper Room Ministries. Companions in Christ is a small-group resource for spiritual formation in local congregations, suited to ecumenical use. Marjorie has exercised a ministry of teaching, writing, and spiritual guidance for many years.

Reviews

[David Fuquay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best introduction to the Christian spiritual life I have come across. I read through the book at least annually and have used it for several study groups in the various churches I have served. After a wonderful introduction, Thompson walks us through scripture, prayer as communication and prayer has communion, fasting, worship, spiritual direction, and developing a rule of life.

Steeped in the breadth and depth of the Christian tradition, she invites the reader into much richer spiritual experiences than one encounters from typical church involvement. I have found her book to be well received by both liberal and conservative Christians which is no small achievement. This book may not be as useful to the "spiritual-but-not-religious" crowd, as it is rooted very distinctly in Christian faith and practice. Having said that, beyond the chapter on worship, the book does have relevance to Christians who might be currently disenchanted with ecclesial life.

[Empress5150 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this/facilitated for a women's Bible study. It is very well written, very thought provoking, and not for those sitting on the sidelines in their faith.
It is also not a "one and done" study to be shelved alongside the others; I plan on pulling it out and going deeper yet as I explore the Spiritual Disciplines. I highly recommend it to those who are yearning for more spirituality in their lives, and are wishing to grow, by grace, into mature followers of Christ.

[James Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wise man recommended this book to me who had decades earlier transitioned from religion to spirituality and recognized the same shift occurring within me. It was a timely and wise choice. There are other authors who write along the same lines, Foster and Dillard come to mind, but this lesser known author with this well-written book hit the spot. I continue to cherish it and use it as a resource and recommend to fellow travelers on the spiritual journey. Good stuff.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rich resource for spiritual practices which I return to again and again.

[Dan Curnutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marjorie Thompson gives us a wonder look at Spiritual Disciplines and a how to guide on your personal Spiritual Development. Her book is a revised edition of a title she brought out in 1995. It has been added to, but not overly changed from it's original form. Thompson became enamored with Spiritual Disciplines by Henry Nouwen and a class she took on the subject. She takes the topic and develops into what is sure to become a classic work on Spiritual development. As mentioned in the introductions this book has become one of the main texts for many Universities and Seminaries on the topic of Spiritual Development.

It is well written, well researched and it is obvious that Marjorie has personally practiced each of the disciplines that she will define, explain and give examples for how to grow in their use.

The book very much reminds me of Richard Foster's book, Celebration of Disciplines. Marjorie will mention his work in her book and frankly you will find that they are so similar in nature that if you have read one you have read them both.

I am very impressed with her method of writing, Her gentle encouragement of the reader to take the "baby steps" necessary to start growing, but then encourages you to continue to work at it and development the disciplines into a life long habit that will draw you much closer to God.

I think that all Christians, lay people as well as pastors, will find this book useful for growing their relationship with the Lord. I would encourage you to not only read this book but if possible enroll in a course at a local Christian University that offers a course in Spiritual Development, you will not be disappointed.

I pray God's blessing on you as you feast on these concepts.

[Karen Klein · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOTE: A COPY OF THIS BOOK WAS GIVEN TO ME THROUGH NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.

I can't believe that I have only just now found this book, but I am a firm believer that books come to you when you need them the most and I will be purchasing a hard copy shortly. What a fantastic resource for any Christian who wants to get closer to God through prayer! I am a new member of the Order of the Daughters of the King, whose first priority is to pray daily and this book has provided some invaluable insight for me. I have already recommended it to other members in my chapter. The author not only discusses various methods of prayer, but also fasting and keeping the Sabbath. The book is written for all to understand and the methods she discusses are simple to do. She states that you should read through the book slowly and savor each chapter, letting it all sink in but it's difficult for me to do that! Once I've gotten my hands on a hard copy I'll go back and re-read, but for now I'm just reading straight through because I'm too excited about what I'm reading to stop - there is just so much wonderful information contained within the pages!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book about spiritual disciplines similar to the Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. I loved this book much more however, especially since it is written by a woman which seemed to make a difference for me when delving into the disciplines and how to make them a regular part of my life. I read this book in a Spiritual Growth class that was one of my favorite at Seminary.

It has been so fruitful to go through this book again. I read this during Seminary in 2002ish, and I had not read the entire book again since graduation.
This reading was definitely enriched by delving into this book chapter by chapter with a small group of women from my church. The accountability and time to process each discipline has been such a blessing for all of us. Highly recommend this as a small group read.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful and inspiring review on Christian spiritual practices and a great reminder at the outset of a new year. There are definitely resources here I’ll pick up on for my own practice. First time seeing chapters on hospitality and spiritual direction in a book on disciplines, good to see them framed in this way.

[Lydia Ware · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been reading this book for a few years with my spiritual mentor at college and I’ve finally finished it. Soul Feast is gently convicting, eye-opening, inviting, and encouraging in the realm of spiritual disciplines, most of which I had no conscious experience with when I started. The spacious margins are now full of my thoughts and reflections. I loved that Thompson provided prompts and quotes to respond to along the way within the margins for readers to make the material their own. Planning to put what I’ve learned to good use!

[Robyn Leyden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book centering around spiritual formation and developing a personal rule of life.

[Luke Hillier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I LOATHE the shape of this book. I do not need enormous margins for notes and doodles, I need the book to be able to fit on a freaking bookshelf without sticking out two inches farther than the rest. This is petty, sure, but it genuinely detracted from my reading experience and I wish publishers would take note.

With -that- out of the way...this was a perfectly fine and even good book! I think my frustrations with it are more so because there are only so many "introduction to various spiritual practices" books you can read, and I've hit my ceiling and don't really want to read anymore. You can only be introduced to Lectio Divina so many times, right? (I read it for my Spiritual Formation class.) But I heartily recommend this one to anyone who is looking for their own 101, and would have given it 4 stars if it hadn't felt as redundant after reading other similar books (also the annoying book shape, tbh). Thompson's voice is vivid and gentle, and she weaves some really thoughtful insights throughout the book. It covers all the bases you'd expect across spiritual disciplines, and I appreciated her commitment to showcasing various forms of each one. The chapter on hospitality was a highlight, in part because that practice is discussed less often, and she writes about it really well! Also appreciated the final chapter on creating a rule of life to tie everything together.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was both uplifting and challenging. It made a good case for the necessity of spiritual disciplines while encouraging readers to take it slow and not bite off more than they can chew. A few of the practices described did not resonate with me but many of them did. I hope to include some of these in my life as I move forward.

[Garner Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is Psalm 63 a favorite for you?

Do you hunger? Is something quick and easy going to satisfy you, or rather, do you prefer a meal that you can chew on slowly, that gives up sparkling flavor with every bite, every swallow bringing you closer to a fullness that will stay with you, rich with nutrients that will sustain you.

Soul Feast is not quick or easy.

Soul Feast requires preparation, and taking the time to pull the ingredients together, there is work involved and you have to wait while it simmers.

However, it is one of the best meals to which you will ever sit at table, and with incomparable companions...

[Al Gritten · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent look at the spiritual disciplines. Thompson's work makes an outstanding companion piece to Richard Foster's "Celebration of Discipline." And while there is naturally some duplication, both offer varied and diverse insights, even into the ways and forms of the same disciplines. This book will probably end up being used in a study group somewhere because it is easy to read and understand. And even more she offers viable ways to practice the disciplines she writes about. Very good!!

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book to read in a group, as we did at Peace Church. Each chapter covers a traditional Christian spiritual practice, some of which are now little known or understood, such as lectio divino, fasting, spiritual direction, hospitality. The topics generated lively discussion, and helped to deepen us as a group. Most of us expressed the thirst we didn't even realize we had for sharing our spiritual lives and yearnings with other people, and how powerful this can be. After reading it, I plan to keep this book handy to refer back to and re-read as I've deepened my practices.

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book for the spiritual and religious; a book about holistic spiritual life thoroughly connected to the already present, ongoing work of the Spirit. A helpful companion for personal growth and understanding. Soul Feast is written with with groups in mind as well, broken down to be taken bit by bit, chapter by chapter, full of thought provoking/discussion inducing questions. Wherever you are in your own spiritual journey, I imagine this book a helpful place to return to again and again.

[Tracy]

At first I found this book difficult to read which surprised me because I was told it was such an easy read. Once I got through the first 3 chapters, it did get a lot easier to read. I think this book gave me some new ideas on prayer and some areas that I need to reflect on to see if they would be helpful in my faith. I am curious to see how my church committee uses this book and these ideas.

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an excellent resource for church leaders and laity alike. There are many great ideas to enhance spiritual practice or simply to begin exploring one's spirituality. I would recommend this book to those discerning a spiritual calling or looking to improve their relationship with God. Most ideas are not rocket science but compelling in helping us to tap into God's presence in our lives.

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Preparing to work through this as a group study. During my first run of reading this book to get a sense of it, I am very impressed with both the spiritual and practical content of it. Many ways to express worship, prayer, and community in Christ. The reading level is not too scholarly or difficult, making it accessible to the average layperson. Good for long-term Christians seeking enrichment and contemplation.

[Emilyfn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very inspiring, beautifully written book. This book delves into numerous spiritual disciplines and gives the reader the opportunity to explore and develop their own life rule, incorporating the disciplines. This is a book that I will keep on my study shelf for an uplifting reminder/review of the many avenues that we have open to us to grow spiritually.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great introduction to Christian spiritual practices! Marjorie Thompson outlines each practice and shares its importance both historically and in today's times. She's very engaging and while she teaches the reader about the practice she also allows for reflection and provides examples of the practice. As the subtitle suggests, she invites the reader to the Christian spiritual life!

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

The recently-revised edition of this classic guide to spiritual expression and growth is a refreshing balm for the soul. It is a slow read because one needs to stop and mull over the thoughts expressed. In our busy lives, we forget to be still and to recenter ourselves. Marjorie Thompson offers ten chapters of ways to renew and nurture and maintain on-going spiritual growth and well-being.

[Pat]

This is a marvelous read. My copy is all marked up with hi-liter from noting favorite excerpts. I have read this study in the quiet of my home, alone on the beach and when I travel. The author offers meaningful ways of reading and then allowing time for the message and your thoughts to soak in.

So lovely a book.

[James Boyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent overview of Christian Spiritual formation. Its writing was clear, well organized, and practical. The author provides further reading, opportunities to practice the disciplines being discussed, and never moves far from the grace of God as the foundation for the disciplines. Very helpful and interesting.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a book to just read.. It is a great book on spiritual disciplines. You need to read it once, even if not all in the printed order. Then you will go back to reference those areas that really hit home and let it guide you in your own spiritual practices.

[Jeff Roper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for a Christian seeking to deepen their spirituality and his or her walk with God. This book is worth reading slowly, deliberately, and w reflection. I highly recommend it. To borrow from Sir Francis Bacon, slowly chew each morsel and slowly digest this read!

[Robert D. Cornwall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wealth of wisdom on the spiritual life. Written with grace and openness, this will be an excellent resource for congregational groups seeking to explore spiritual practices. Very practical, and includes a study guide to boot!

[Elaine Dowling · Rating 3 out of 5]

A spiritual disciplines book squarely aimed at the frozen chosen -- you know who you are.

[Katy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think she offers a solid introduction to some spiritual disciplines in away that makes them accessable to readers who are unfamilure with the practices.

[Chris Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is great about this book was how practical and broad the coverage of spiritual disciplines is. "There's something for everyone" probably applies here.