Practitioners of Centering Prayer are known for the great enthusiasm they bring to the practice of this ancient discipline. Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening is a complete guidebook for all who wish to know the practice of Centering Prayer. Cynthia Bourgeault goes further than offering an introduction, however. She examines how the practice is related to the classic tradition of Christian contemplation, looks at the distinct nuances of its method, and explores its revolutionary potential to transform Christian life. The book encourages dialogue between Centering Prayer enthusiasts and those classic institutions of Christian nurture--churches, seminaries, and schools of theology--that have yet to accept real ownership of the practice and its potential. "[Bourgeaults] focus in this book is the contribution she perceives that Centering Prayer can make to the renewal and appropriate adaptation of the Christian contemplative heritage to the circumstances of our time...My special and heartfelt thanks to Cynthia for her monumental contribution to the better understanding of the Centering Prayer practice..." --from the foreword by Thomas Keating
Cynthia Bourgeault has studied and taught in a number of Benedictine monasteries in the United States and Canada. An Episcopal priest, she is well known as a retreat and conference leader, teacher of prayer, and writer on the spiritual life. She is the author of a number of books, including Mystical Hope.
It is amazing how confirming, clarifying, and encouraging Cynthia Bourgeaults teaching is. Probably the best on practical prayer I have ever read. — Richard Rohr, OFM, author of Everything Belongs
This book will be inspiring, clear, and helpful to those who look well into it. — Philip C. Fischer; Review For Religious
Every page of this book contains profound but accessible spiritual teaching and wisdom for living. — The Anglican Journal
Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening is a superb book, a wonderfully accessible introduction to Centering Prayer and the role it can play in your own ‘salvation unto eternity. Highly recommended for all who are on a spiritual path of any sort. — Ken Wilber, author of The Eye of Spirit
Bourgeaults prophetic voice points the way to restore harmony, dignity, and depth to our lived Christian community. — The Anglican Journal
Cynthia Bourgeaults book is a must-read. . . . Her simple and clear explanations of the contemplative process so apparently based in her own experience re-ignited my own yearning to live a deeply God-centered life and renewed my commitment to the practice. — Anne Simpkinson, co-author, Soul Work: A Field Guide for Spiritual Seekers
