Teaching The Dead Bird To Sing

W. Paul Jones was in the prime of a successful academic career when he felt the call to embrace solitude by becoming a hermit in the Ozark Hills. In this candid journal, Jones recounts his journey toward emotional healing and the joy of "being" rather than "doing."

Canada is one of few countries in the world where medical assistance in dying (MAiD) is a legal option—and the number of permitted contexts (terminal illness, chronic illness, mental illness) is increasing. This collection of essays (and corresponding questions for reflection) has been made available to help the wider church discuss and increase understanding of the realities of MAiD—for our communities, our role as Christians, vulnerable populations, healthcare, social justice, God's gift of life, and our call to care for those who suffer.

If you have ever wondered about how hermits live, or if you are an active participant in the eremitical life, then its time to make this ultimate resource guide part of your book collection. Written by the editors of Ravens Bread, an international quarterly newsletter that provides guidance on hermit life, Consider the Ravens is a seminal study on eremitism as it has developed since the 1950s. Learn about All aspects of the vocation, including spiritual, practical, and juridical Hazards of the hidden life Practical recommendations for beginners in eremitical life Extensive citations from desert fathers and mothers Exploration of eremitical spirituality. Essentially, youll learn about the eremitic life straight from the hermits themselves, and its never an easy task to get their opinions and advice! The voices of many of todays hermits can now be heard loud and clear for the first time. Find the answers to your questions about a vocation as old as spirituality itself and discover why eremitism is becoming more popular than ever in Consider the Ravens.

Another World explores day to day life in a small Trappist monastery tucked away in the Ozark foothills. Interweaving memoir with conversations with the monks, observations of community life, and relationships with other visitors, Claassen provides a window into contemporary monastic life. Each chapter describes a day in the monastery. The reading experience is like spending time away from the world in a real community that is very human and gently inspiring. Eighteen black & white photos by the author further evoke the experience.

This wise and beautiful book draws on the experience of unchosen waiting – in sickness, in old age, and in the struggles and frustrations of everyday life – to explore the challenges of waiting and the skills it demands. A lifeline for anyone who finds themselves in a time of waiting, chosen or unchosen, or accompanying others through such times, it shows how the paradoxical gifts of patience point to the God who kindly waits for us. A book of grace, depth and beauty, destined to become a modern spiritual classic.

Does prayer have to be silent? Does meditation have to be solemn? If I'm an extrovert, can I worship God? In this groundbreaking book, psychologist and spiritual adviser Nancy Reeves presents a refreshing view of spirituality that goes beyond personality to provide extroverts (and those who love them) with exciting new ways of approaching God. Reeves explores a wide variety of spiritual practices for extroverts, including: Praying in motion Singing Cultivating spiritual friendships Practicing spirituality in groups In the end, she urges all of us, extrovert and introvert alike, to seek a mature spirituality that embraces all the aspects of our personalities. Includes questions for reflection and discussion. Perfect for book clubs, discussion groups, and bible study classes. "For some reason, we think of quiet, introverted people as the very name of holiness. This cannot be true, and Nancy Reeves shows us why!" -Richard Rohr, author of Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality "I've been waiting a long time to read a book like this! Nancy Reeves provides much needed insight and guidance." -Joyce Rupp, author of Fresh Bread: And Other Gifts of Spiritual Nourishment "As an introvert, I found Reeves' perspectives eye-opening and enormously helpful. They will change the way I interact with the extroverts in my life. This book should be required reading for anyone offering spiritual guidance." -Marjorie J. Thompson, author of Soul Feast: An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life Nancy Reeves is a clinical psychologist, spiritual director, poet, and author. She is director of the Island Loss Clinic, teaches at the University of Victoria, and conducts many lectures and workshops internationally. She is the author of A Match Made in Heaven: A Bible-Based Guide to Deepening Your Relationship with God and I'd Say Yes, God, If I Knew What You Wanted.