A chance meeting with a mother of six inspires a young American, James Robertson, who has just lost his wife in childbirth, to visit her spiritual director, Peter Calvay, who lives in the Outer Hebrides. In the first part of the book - The Hermit, the young man learns how to pray and how to meditate according to the ancient Christian tradition. In the second part of the book The Prophet, Peter is presumed lost at sea and James is invited to order his personal effects. He finds details of Peter's own spiritual journey that inspires James to deepen his own spiritual life.This part is crammed with good practical advice on prayer for the reader as well as describing the deeply human story of the young woman with whom Peter falls deeply in love. Eventually Peter turns up alive and well and in the third part of the book - The Mystic - the two meet again this time on the mainland where Peter has come to attend his mother's funeral. Peter uses the story of his own parent's love for each other as the perfect paradigm with which to explain the mystic way. The teachings of the "Cloud of Unknowing" and the great mystics St John of the Cross and St Teresa of Avila are explained with great clarity by paralleling the mystic life with married life. Deeply moving lessons are drawn for those committed to each way that can lead to the fullest possible experience of love here on earth.

About the Author
David Torkington is a Catholic journalist, author and speaker, who writes and lectures about prayer and Christian spirituality. He specialises in Mystical Theology and Franciscan spirituality. He had a regular column in The Catholic Herald for many years but is now freelance.

Reviews
Filled with insights into spiritual growth and the options for meeting God in daily prayer time. Crux of the NewsIf this book ends up on the shelf next to Introduction to the Devout Life, they will be in fitting company. David McLaurin, winner of the "Daily Express Book of the Year Award" for his novel Bishop of San FernandoThe format and flow of a novel but the impact of a work of deep mysticism. This little book can revolutionize the way you pray. To get better at doing 'the most important thing' in your life, we recommend you read this book. Larry Holley O.S.B., Book Nook , USAHis engrossing style masks the depth of his practical advice and specifics about many forms of prayer from the traditional to the new. Stanley M. Grabowski, Ph.D., Pastoral LifeDavid Torkington writes about prayer, the true deep prayer of the heart that surrenders us to the Father of Jesus. So simply expressed, so colloquial, that we understand the total love of God as the essential act of being human. Sr. Wendy Beckett, Mount Carmel



Book Information
ISBN 9781846941191
Author David Torkington
Format Paperback
Page Count 396
Imprint O Books
Publisher Collective Ink
Weight(grams) 414g
Dimensions(mm) 218mm * 144mm * 23mm