The Divine Mosaic

A journey with twenty-four women from many religious traditions who look into the face of God and tell us what they see, experience, and feel the divine in their lives.

Built on the southwestern coast of Cyprus in the second century A.D., the House of Dionysos is full of clues to a distant life—in the corner of a portico, shards of pottery, a clutch of Roman coins found on a skeleton under a fallen wall—yet none is so evocative as the intricate mosaic floors that lead the eye from room to room, inscribing in their colored images the traditions, aspirations, and relations of another world. In this lavishly illustrated volume, Christine Kondoleon conducts us through the House of Dionysos, showing us what its interior decoration discloses about its inhabitants and their time. Seen from within the context of the house, the mosaics become eloquent witnesses to an elusive dialogue between inhabitants and guests, and to the intermingling of public and private. Kondoleon draws on the insights of art history and archaeology to show what the mosaics in the House of Dionysos can tell us about these complex relations. She explores the issues of period and regional styles, workshop traditions, the conditions of patronage, and the forces behind iconographic change. Her work marks a major advance, not just in the study of Roman mosaics, but in our knowledge of Roman society.

In "The Divine Mosaic: Piecing Together Catholic and Orthodox Union," renowned ecumenical authority James Likoudis embarks on a meticulous exploration of the long-standing divide between Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. Drawing from his unique vantage point as an Eastern Orthodox convert, Likoudis provides profound insights on contentious issues such as the Filioque, Papal Primacy, and Palamism. Through a masterful deconstruction of misconceptions, Likoudis advocates for reconciliation and a deeper mutual understanding, challenging both the Catholic and Orthodox realms to unite in faith. This seminal work stands as a testament to Likoudis's seven-decade-long commitment to fostering Christian unity.Within these pages, he refutes common objections to Catholicism as well as providing a sound basis for a truly Catholic ecclesiology. This book will be a welcome contribution to ecumenism today and will bring the Church of Christ, which subsists fully within the Catholic Church, that much closer to healing its wounds, and offering a vision of a united Christianity to the world; a prerequisite of fulfilling the mission entrusted to it by Christ.

In the tapestry of human existence, spirituality weaves a rich and intricate pattern. It's a mosaic of beliefs, practices, and philosophies that have evolved over millennia, shaping cultures, civilizations, and individuals. "Diving into the Divine Mosaic" embarks on a profound journey through this tapestry, exploring the diverse pantheon of global beliefs that form the bedrock of humanity's spiritual heritage. At the heart of this exploration lies the recognition of the universality of human spirituality. Despite the apparent differences among various belief systems, there exists a common thread that binds them together - the human quest for meaning, connection, and transcendence. Whether through rituals, prayers, meditation, or contemplation, people across cultures and civilizations have sought to understand the mysteries of existence and their place within the cosmos. The journey begins by delving into ancient belief systems, tracing their origins and evolution through the annals of history. From the animistic traditions of indigenous peoples, where every aspect of nature is imbued with spirit and significance, to the polytheistic pantheons of ancient civilizations, where gods and goddesses personified natural forces and human attributes, the diversity of early spiritual expressions is both captivating and illuminating. As civilizations flourished and interacted, beliefs merged, syncretized, and transformed, giving rise to complex systems of faith and philosophy. The monotheistic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam emerged, each with its own sacred texts, prophets, and theological doctrines, shaping the spiritual landscape of vast regions and leaving an indelible mark on human history. Simultaneously, the dharmic traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism flourished in the Indian subcontinent, offering profound insights into the nature of reality, karma, and liberation. With their emphasis on inner transformation, karma, and the cycle of birth and rebirth, these traditions continue to inspire seekers around the globe, transcending cultural boundaries and linguistic barriers. Venturing further, the journey encounters the wisdom traditions of East Asia, including Confucianism, Taoism, and Shintoism. Rooted in ancient philosophies and indigenous practices, these traditions emphasize harmony with nature, social ethics, and spiritual cultivation, providing a holistic framework for living in balance with oneself, others, and the cosmos. Beyond the confines of organized religion, the journey explores the mystical traditions that permeate every culture and epoch. From the Sufi poets of Islam and the Christian mystics of medieval Europe to the Zen masters of Japan and the shamanic healers of indigenous tribes, mysticism offers a direct and experiential approach to the divine, transcending dogma and doctrine in pursuit of spiritual awakening and union with the Absolute. As the journey unfolds, it becomes evident that the Divine Mosaic is not static but dynamic, evolving, and ever-changing. New religious movements emerge, ancient traditions adapt to modern realities, and spiritual seekers draw inspiration from a myriad of sources, forging unique paths of faith and practice. Yet, amidst this diversity, there exists a profound unity - a recognition of the sacredness of life, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the ultimate mystery that lies beyond human comprehension. In embracing the Divine Mosaic, we celebrate not only our differences but also our shared humanity, recognizing that, in the end, we are all pilgrims on the same journey, seeking meaning, purpose, and transcendence in the vast expanse of existence.

MOSAIC OF THE DARK is a portrayal of one woman's journey to wholeness and addresses the psychological harm that can arise from restrictive societal expectations for women.

This book focuses on apse mosaics in Rome and engages topics including time, intercession, materiality, repetition, and vision.

Being a mission-driven leader is hard. Being a mission-driven leader who knows how to navigate the emotions of loss and grief connected to leadership is harder still. It takes a vulnerable leader to lead well—one who has faced into their own losses and can let those losses equip their character for God’s greater plans. Not all leaders are willing. Not all leaders are able. Yet, according to David Woolverton, leaders’ vulnerability to the emotional processes of grief is essential for the overall health of the organizations they lead and for the well-being—and discipleship—of those under their direction. Grief, he says, is best viewed as a mosaic, where each of our significant losses forms a constellation of tiles that, when seen together over time, helps tell a story of God’s redemptive love, grace, and mission—a story desperately needed within today’s post-pandemic angst. Using Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s five stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) as a guide, along with five biblical prophet “mentors,” Woolverton presents five strategies to equip pastors and leaders in negotiating with their losses to attain organizational resilience, sustainability, and vibrancy.