Spirituality Books

this was an excellent book about a journey to the innerself and womanhood
i would recommend this book to anyone

Shamanic wisdom, mystical spirits, Native American culture--if these are your heart topics, and you love the way Lynn Andrews writes, you will love this book.

Lynn Andrews returns to the familiar magical storytelling mixed with the idea that we can all be mystics if we only follow her shamanic wisdom. I'll admit a love-hate relationship to her books. "Jaguar Woman" moved me from my cynical, career-driven bent, but as my own path developed before me, I followed Andrew's less. Possibly because I could not match her shamanic travels, uber-human experiences and amazing way of life.

This paperback is another of the Sisterhood of the Shields series. Here, Andrews explores the inevitability of aging and death. She examines the many "little deaths" that occur in life--getting let go or fired from a job, a death in the family, divorce, the long-term illness of a loved one.

The book is an introduction to 'elderhood' with a recognition of another transition--one in which we accept what is, even as we see our friends begin to age and die. We learn to withstand these times and to grow from them.

As Americans, we generally hide from death or simply defy it. This is a good book to grasp the reality of elderhood.

For about 25 years Lynn Andrews has written memoir after memoir of life as an urban shaman living between both worlds. Tree of Dreams examines getting older and balancing her two lives. This book is less fantastical and the passage of time has lessened the melodrama of her earlier work. I still don't get The Red Dog rival and wonder still if he is some imaginary antagonist to make this Native American like. Overall, an interesting perspective on getting older and holding the medicine wheel in Andrews' world. I just wonder if this belongs in the non-fiction section and whether the Cree tribe in Manitoba, Canada are getting royalties. Having known a Native woman who lived on a reserve in New York State, one thing seems to be common - they don't rejoice at Andrews or her work.

As I've followed Lynn's growth and teachings over the many years that she's written (I have an older copy of Medicine Women with the native women and crow on the front........pages have fallen apart, the cover taped back on, etc.), I was pleased when I came across this newer addition to her volume of work. In this book she descibes her feelings on what it's like to have an ailing parent and the process of death. She describes her on going search for answers which also proves that even for all she's learned, she still does not profess to have "the truth". Quite the contrary, she wonders about good and evil, duality, etc.. Her on-going relationship with Red Dog is put in a somewhat different light. It's almost a love hate relationship. A good read and very down to earth. What is interesting also is the process that was involved to write her first, Medicine Women.

Tree Of Dreams: A Spirit Woman's Vision Of Transition And Change by Lynn Andrews is a deeply moving narrative of her quest for growth, spiritual fulfillment, and better understanding of sacred things. Embracing the power of healing and coping with "little deaths" such as divorce or the sudden loss of a job, as well as the great losses of loved ones to "Time's Eternal March", Lynn Andrews' Tree Of Dreams is a powerful and moving metaphysical reflection. Also very highly recommended are Lyn Andrews' previous books: Medicine Woman and Jaguar Woman.

So many different people and groups claim lineage with the Rosicrucians there is no way to really tell which one's are legitimate and which are not. Although this book may be about the true Rosicrucian Order it doesn't mean the information is accurate. It does contain some interesting information but I think it needs to be taken with a grain of salt. And I have to admit that I got bored with the many pages of tarot explainations that were presented as if they represented the true inner teaching of the Order.

Dr. Case was a gift to humanity and True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order is a crown jewel amongst the treasure of material he left behind. It is not for everybody. This book requires patience and many readings to get the full value out of it.

I agree with the other reviewers who say that the BOTA lessons provide a necessary foundation for truly getting the most out of this dense and difficult text. That being said, there is so much value here words fail me.

I have read so many books on occultism. I have started so many "self-initiation" programs. When I found the BOTA I felt like I was coming home. When I then discovered this book I felt like I found a treasure chest in the attic. I have spent the last two years primarily focused on studying this text and no other experience in my life (outside of my marriage) has provided me with such clear exercise and evidence of spiritual development.

I am humbled by Dr. Case and his legacy. My only prayer is that I might become a channel for that Divine Love that has so graciously provided my being. I owe it to Dr. Case that I even have an inkling of the worthiness of that prayer.

Those of us who are serious Seekers can struggle for years before the light begins to dawn. I have been a Freemason for many years and an SRIA member. I have read Boehme, Blake and others. Struggled with Tarot and Qabalah, but on getting into this book the scales fell from my eyes. Many feel within; and struggle to find words. Paul Foster Case finds them for us.

Who were the Rosicrucians? Appearing out of nowhere in 1614, the Rosicrucian fraternity anonymously published two manifestoes and then went silent. Because of this silence, many scholars surmised that the Rosicrucian Order was just an elaborate hoax... but the the Rosicrucian manifestoes undeniably had an immediate and profound impact on the philosophy, science, and politics of the age. Even unto the Twenty-First Century, Rosicrucian thinking continues to play a major role in Freemasonry and many other esoteric organizations.

Paul Foster Case wrote "The True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order" because he believed that the original Rosicrucian manifestoes were written in a sort of Qabalistic short-hand, making them clearly understandable to those versed in alchemy and Qabala-- and obscuring much of their meaning from the general reading public. The first portion of Case's book is an exhaustive look at the Rosicrucian manifestoes, gleaning a treasure-trove of Qabalistic symbolism, numerology, and sacred geometry from the literal words printed in the documents; the second half of this book presents a series of highly subjective meditations on Rosicrucian philosophy, using Tarot keys to communicate the wisdom of the Rosicrucian masters.

The first portion of the book, covering the Rosicrucian manifestoes, is hardly light reading. Case spends page after page delving into the esoteric significance of the two Rosicrucian documents, reading deeply between the lines for a hint as to their real meaning. Admittedly, Dr. Case's style is relentlessly analytical, and he writes with a sort of focused intensity that may not appeal to everyone. Much of this material is difficult to grasp, many of Dr. Case's references are obscure, and there are several entire chapters which are little more than advanced occult geometry lessons. Despite these entirely valid criticisms, however, Case's analysis of the Rosicrucian manifestoes stands as a tour de force of Qabalistic Gematria and Rosicrucian philosophy. You simply won't find a better work of this nature anywhere! As Case correctly points out, the Rosicrucian manifestoes were addressed to an "erudite" reading audience, and their occultic significance could not have been missed by the practicing alchemists and philosophers of early Seventeenth-Century Europe.

My favorite parts of the first section of the book are those discussing Brother C.R.C.'s allegorical tale, the geometry of the Vault of the Adeptii, and especially the meaning of the Rosicrucian rose-cross symbol (Case's analysis of this symbol will undoubtedly have special significance to Scottish Rite Masons!).

Where the first half of this book is unnervingly direct, the second half is more subtle. This section covers the traditional Rosicrucian scheme of initiation (patterned after the Qabalistic 'Tree of Life' diagram), and provides the reader with a true system of self-initiation very much in accord with the Golden Dawn tradition. Because each Grade of Initiation is associated with a particular center on the Tree of Life, Dr. Case focuses on one aspect or attribute of that center, and then uses the Qabalistic attributions of the Hebrew letters in that word to establish a set of "doctrines" for each Grade. These doctrines are then exemplified using their associated Tarot Keys, providing the would-be initiate with a complete series of Tarot meditations to guide them up the Path.

The methods suggested in "The True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order" are solid, but unfortunately, this book doesn't provide any instructions for carrying them out. This was probably by design, and there are certainly strong arguments in favor of this omission, but it's easy to see how the would-be initiate might become frustrated with the book's total lack of guidance. Individuals who are already familiar with Case's writing will probably have an inkling about how to use these meditations to their best effect, and for this reason, I would strongly recommend reading Case's other masterpiece, "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ancients," before attempting to tackle the exercises suggested in this book.

Paul Foster Case was a gifted teacher, and this book is probably his crowning achievement in the field of occultism. Outside of B.O.T.A., the Order that Case founded, you aren't going to find a more open discussion of his techniques. However, because of the complexity of "The True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order," this certainly isn't a title that I would recommend to a beginner on the Path.

For more information about B.O.T.A., see http://www.bota.org.

SHALOM!

Paul foster case presents a true understanding of the inner principles of the Invisible Order of The True Rosicrucians based on the two true manifestoes.I was skeptical of course at first,but being a student of occult sciences such as Qabalah,Mental Alchemy,Esoteric Astrology,and yes Esoteric Tarot,he hits it at the heart.He does not claim to be a rosicrucian nor his school to be a Rosicrucian Order as such.He simply states what is clearly seen by those with eyes to see.The True rosicrucian order is in the hearts of all the children Of the ONE INFINITE REALITY,plain and simple.

From the files of FATE Magazine, the oldest of paranormal publications, comes this collection of True Mystic Experiences to set your mind aflame. I have personally always loved the "Believe it or Not" types of tales but have been on the skeptical side until recent years, and taken the stories with a grain of salt. However, this book, being from my favorite paranormal publisher, leaves no room for doubt in my mind. I know the practices of this publisher, being a writer who has submitted to them, and can attest to the fact that every story, such as these, is published only after the author has signed a sworn affidavit of its truth.

What a well-rounded collection is this! From guardian angels and premonitions of death, to psychic dreams and out of body experiences, there is something here to suit every curiosity. The stories come from everyday folks: soldiers at war, daughters in mourning, newlywed couples and more. Some are written in detailed prose, while others are more like a letter from home. But all exude a feeling of "Something wonderful and awesome has happened, and I was a witness to it."

Jennifer Spees has compiled a wonderful collection into chapters of the unexplainable. Whether you sit and read through it all on a rainy, snuggly weekend or savor it bit by bit in moments of peace, True Mystic Experiences will be a book you won't forget. The stories will haunt you and inspire you to look about for signs of your own mystic encounters. And what a wonderful thing to have happen!

This book is one of the greatest books I've ever read. This book is full of fascinating real-life stories of spirits, ghosts, and strange phenomena. If you are really into supernatural unexplainable stuff, this book is perfect for you to read.

I've loved this stuff since I was a kid. Rationalism may be a nice security blanket for those who are scared of the dark -- but just because you've nailed up the closet door it doesn't mean the monster's not still in there! The personal experience of the invisible world is universal, and can't be explained away. These stories are great examples of that experience, and fun reading too.

Ignore the slightly cheesy cover...this book is great. We always had Fate Magazine around the house when I was growing up, and I later subscribed (although the current incarnation of the magazine can't hold a candle to the ones from the 60's, 70's and before). My favorite monthly segments were always "True Mystic Experiences" and "My Proof of Survival"...ordinary readers wrote in to tell their ghostly/paranormal/psychic experiences. It's great to have this collection of stories to take me back...and this has plenty from Fate's 50+ year archives. Hopefully Fate will put out a "My Proof of Survival" book next...I read this in a couple of evenings and want more!

After reading this beautifully compiled book of strange and unusual mystic experiences, the world was not the same for me. Jennifer Spees weaves together a scary, yet poignant fabric of unbelievably true stories, threaded with supernatural, paranormal, and just plain spooky undertones. This is a must have for anyone who has experienced the unbelievable, who has an interest in the paranormal, or who just wants to be entertained. Be prepared to be mystified!

If one is serious about Bible study and is only fimiliar with the King James version then this little book is worth considering. From the Geniva Bible on the Bible has been written in verses, which lends itself to taking the meaning out of context. This gives a much distorted view of the meaning and spirit of the Bible. There is a reason the King James is "authorized" by King and Church (it was never authorized nor did King James have anything to do with it). It could be manipulated and is manipulated even more so to this day. Just because people have been extracting meaning from the Bible by combining verses from different chapters and even books, for 400 yrs., doesn't make it correct.
This book is small and the print is small but very readable. The spelling is at times a bit difficult but one quickly becomes used to it. The difficulty is soon over come and the rewards of a fresh view, free of agendas and controle, is worth the time spent. I understand that there is a movement twards studing the Bible in its original form. I think reading this version will help you understand why.

I was very impressed by the quality of the binding of this book, as well as the paper. It has been very difficult putting this little book down. Now I am enjoying reading this New Testament, and it really isn't difficult to understand, even with the original spelling. I highly recommend this book.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This reprinting of the first translation of the New Testament by William Tyndale is a true treasure today - as was the original in 1526.

Through his ardent devotion, careful and diligent scholarship, and fluency in New Testament Greek, Tyndale seems to have accomplished an ideal pairing of literal accuracy and beautiful readability. Even though his original spellings have been retained in this reprinting, within my first day of reading this volume, I was able to become comfortable with these, and they have seldom slowed my reading since. I found it very easy to understand - a much easier and more fluid read than either the current renditions of the King James Bible or the writings of Shakespeare. The only drawbacks I noticed were the unfamiliar spellings (which I quickly moved beyond) and the use of chapter numberings only, with no verse numbers.

Tyndale's 1526 version was the first translation of the New Testament into English, and personally, I doubt that its overspreading of innate beauty and scholarship have been equalled since. It is said to have formed the basis for much of the 1611 "King James Version", but I far prefer the Tyndale translation. It is worth mentioning also, that the items noted in Tyndale's own errata on his 1526 version have been fully reflected in the text of this re-publication. This is no facsimile version, but a readable English text well-suited for serious study as well as for reading pleasure.

Someone has pointed out that, historically, it was around the time when written language moved beyond picture-based heiroglyphics to a more objective and stable, alphabet-based, form when the Old Testament first began to take shape; and that it was at the historical peak of precision and beauty in written language that the Greek New Testament was given. It seems that the original translation of the New Testament into English was no less a glorious work of providence and timing, and that Tyndale was ideally qualified for this very thing.

I believe that, apart from the gift of Jesus' own Presence and Spirit within the hearts of believers through the New Birth, the Tyndale translation of the New Testament was certainly the most wonderful gift that English-speaking believers in Christ have ever been given: God's Word beautifully and accurately conveyed in our own language. I believe this translation to be an authentic, and God-given treasure. I am so glad to have discovered it! I pray that you may too!

Hard to understand the spelling in some places, but for the most part was easy enough for me to read. It was facinating to read the original spelling version, and compare it to the corrected spelling version. There ARE some debatable differences in the translated words they chose to use!
This text, along with the 1599 Geneva Bible and the 1611 King James Version, provides a TRUE rendering of God's Word. One can really see how His Word has been altered through out the years, especially when one compares it to the newer bible versions.
It was also good to read it without the chapter divisions, as this has also lent to the different viewpoints and interpretations. A VERY good book for those in search of the ultimate truth!

This wee 12-mo of the 1526 Tyndale New Testament from the press of the British Library is the closest most will come to the genesis of the English-speaking bible which was to appear 85 years later in the guise of the familiar King James Version of 1611.

The prefacist, David Daniell, is known for his modern language version published by Yale University Press, but this is the original Tyndale-spelling edition for we purists. The introducer, W R Cooper of Oxford, employs his eight pages so profitably as to leave the reader edified and stocked with a trove of bibliophilic lore and conversation from the dawn of the Reformation.

Here begins the second chapter of Matthew:

"When Jesus was borne in Bethleem a toune of Jury, in the tyme of kynge Herode. Beholde, there cam wyse men from the est to Jerusalem saynge: where is he that is borne kynge of the Jues? we have sene his star in the est, and are come to worship hym. Herode the kynge, after he hadd herde thys, was troubled, and all Jerusalem with hym..."

This is the English language in the swaddling clothes of its very infancy. Its rustic power thrills us, even unto these very days...

It's nice to know that other people deal with similarly ridiculous situations on a daily basis! Just knowing that I am not alone in the unattainable goal of conquering Laundry Mountain is a relief! Jenn Doucette has peppered her book with lots of laughs and "Me Too!!!" moments. I have read the book twice now since receiving it hot off the press and I think I laughed even harder the second time (a good sign)! A sense of humor goes a long way in this journey called motherhood, without one bitterness may just set in! One suggestion, read The Velveteen Rabbit - especially with your kids - before and after reading The Velveteen Mommy, it truly adds to the enjoyment of both. I recommend this book for all of us who are getting worn with love, the love of our precious children!

Hilarious! Touching! Real! These are just a few of the words describing this great book by new author Jenn Doucette. Jenn is a real mom who shares the ups and downs of family life that will have you alternately laughing and crying. A great debut!

A book to uplift and delight. Jenn Doucette uses humorous stories and biblical wisdom to show us we're never alone. God is with us through the joys and struggles of motherhood. He NEVER fails to pull us out of the "trenches of motherhood," and carry us though another day of laundry up to our eyeballs.

Like all busy moms, I tend to forget what is important in raising children ~~ and Doucette is here to remind me! This is a lovely book ~~ inspirational and funny in some parts ~~ and refreshing. This book is a Christian book and in some ways, it can be used as a Bible Study ~~ but I read it to know that I am not alone in the trenches of mommyhood!

Written with gentle humor, Doucette writes of her own trials as a mother with three youngsters under the age of five. She writes poignantly of her failings ~~ and she writes in a way that the reader can relate to ~~ it's almost as if she's in the room with you sharing her tales of woes and joys over a cup of coffee. As a mom of two very active preschoolers, this book is my "time-out" from their demands. It is just wonderful knowing that I can be a Velveteen Mommy and still be loved by God!

If you're a mother of youngsters, I would not hesitate in picking this book up! In fact, I would run to the nearest bookstore and see if they have it in stock ~~ you'll be glad that you did!!

10-24-05

It is certainly a truth that the Lord uses our everyday existence as a school of learning, so is the case in this book by author Jenn Doucette. In this work she shares the ups and downs of being a parent, the trials, the joys, the strain on patience, tolerance and strength and shares out loud what so many are screaming within, "Help me Lord!"
Lighthearted and always real, our author weaves God's wisdom into her stories bringing a sense of calm and peace in the whirlwind life of a parent. Many a mom will relate and draw encouragement and strength in reading this work from someone who knows. It's always a blessing to know that you are not alone.

Excellent little book. The "Vision" section is primarily pictures that are representative of different topics. The "Vow" section is excellent reading and offers a really insightful view of the Christian life.

This book has helped me to see my Christian walk in a way I never saw it before. I have been challenged and changed by the words of this book. It is time to start living the Vision for Christ instead of playing church. Don't read the Vision and the Vow if you're not ready to be challenged for Christ.

This is an excellent book exploring what it means to be fully committed to Jesus Christ in our current world. It explores everything from grace to holiness to our commission to take the gospel to the world. The call to prayer and intimate relationship with God is set in line with the call to be outward meeting the practial and spiritual needs of the hurting. This book is definitely worth the time. It actually surprised me how good it is. Pete Greig writes in a very natural and honest style and is very easy to read and identify with.

I have ordered over 20 copies of "Red Moon Rising" to distribute to Christian friends--all responses have been positive. I purchased "The Vision and the Vow" just to see what Pete Grieg was currently thinking. I found it powerful and persuasive--count me in. It is the rare book I want to give to a very gifted, capable, unconventional non-Christian who understandably can't get interested in "normal" Christianity.

The vision and the vow - pete greig

Not being someone who's been into the whole 24-7 thing massively I haven't read any of pete grieg's stuff before. I've been amazed and impacted by some of the truths of coming back to a life of sacrifice and love for God.

The book is not a natural contender for a recommendation on the ignite web site because towards the end it suggests you think about taking a vow of commitment to love Jesus, be kind to others and spread the gospel in other nations. It's not miles away from our own ignite declaration we encourage you to take but in all honesty we're into building God's kingdom and want to recommend this one to you because we believe it may inspire you.

The book has roughly five sections, firstly a fabulous chapter about Jesus that I've loved and that the vision, from the 247 stuff is actually Jesus and then some of how that works out in real life for us people living in the 21st century. The Vision in these pages connected somewhere in my heart with a desire that longs to live "dangerously, obsessively and undeniably" for Jesus. My favourite part of the book is called "summon the losers", identifying that no one is too bad, broken or boring to be used by God. I've used it as a great framework for some talks I've been doing in Christian unions across Cardiff. Those chapters, and in fact the whole book is packed with great stories and illustrations about us growing up into maturity with our relationship with God, a call to discipleship and some of the "how to" help that is most valuable.

As a psychotherapist, and recepient of plenty of psychotherapy myself, I can testify to the power of fear. Track any emotional difficulty to its core and your will find fear. Track any fear to its core and you will find the fear of death. Fear cries out for reassurance, but not just any reassurance will do --- we need credible reassurance.

To my knowledge, no one has solved the great mystery of the afterlife with absolute, undeniable credibility, and until that happens we have to use our own good judgment about whom we can trust on this essential subject. I trust Lily Fairchilde. I have worked with her personally on many occasions over the past 20 years, and have never found reason to doubt that she is the real deal. Lily is definitely unique; I think maybe half human and half spirit guide.

And Voices from the Afterlife is a beautifully written, highly credible reassurance for people like me, who are definitely human and who need continued reassurance that life goes on. Thanks, Lily, for the Serenity you have given me.

"Voices From the Afterlife" is a collection of spirit communications, filled with many great lessons of healing & love, as received by the author Lily Fairchilde.

Each chapter contains a "transcript" of what that spirit communicated to the author - regarding its experiences on earth and The Other Side, as well as the lessons they learned. This is then followed up by information provided by a guide &/or angel. This additional information tends to clarify or expand on the original spirit statements.

Wonderful insights regarding such things as fear & forgiveness are also included. We are reminded that we create our own fears, and so it's only us that can choose to take away their power; and that forgiveness of ourselves and others is to key to living a joy-filled life.

Overall, I found this book to be an easy, interesting, insightful read. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in after-life communications & spirituality.

If you are on a spiritual journey and wish to find answers and comfort about your purpose in life and are longing to know about loved ones that have died. buy this book. It is somewhat Christian based, and as I am not Christian, I had some issues with that. overall it is very comforting and if you want my 2 cents worth, I believe it is the truth.

I have read the 19 page introduction. This afterlife story was very touching. I agreed with 100% of the information I've learned. I have been doing a lot of research and seminars with Psychic medium James Van Praagh. I also learned more from "Crossing Over" with John Edward,and from regression lessons and information from Brian Weiss. This story seems to exactly fit into everything I've experienced and highly recommend this book to anyone.

I have been reading about NDEs and life after death for approximately 20 years and have read many books on the subject. After recently losing my only child, I desperately wanted to find a book that relates what actually happens when a soul crosses over and what it is like "over there". This book explains this beautifully. It is so reassuring to know what happens when we pass and that the life awaiting for us on the other side is much more wonderful than we could ever imagine.

This book is heartwarming and anyone who reads it can relate to one of the stories. Thank you Lily Fairchilde for such a wonderful gift.

Richard Maffeo's book is a wonderful series of meditations on the Creed of our faith. Using both scripture and personal anecdotes, Mr. Maffeo helps the reader see, hear and feel the Creed in a profoundly personal way. This book is a blessing to anyone of faith.

Wow, this is an amazing book! I agree with all the other reviews of: We Believe: Forty Meditations on the Nicene Creed
especially: "this book will take you to surprising places in gentle and supportive ways". "We Believe" does have warm, personal stories and beautiful, accessible meditations. The author seems to be a man of fearless humility! Obviously it's difficult to race through the Nicene Creed after reading this. And now it's difficult to race through ALL my prayers, journaling, conversations, radio shows, and life in general. I am a more thoughtful listener now, to my self and others. I am a more thoughtful reader, driver, and TV watcher. I wish Mr Maffeo would do the Mass, the Our Father and the Hail Mary and the Mysteries of the Rosary and the Beatitudes and. ...but I realize this can be an example and I can do this for myself for the rest of my life. I have read so many books on how to pray and this has truly helped more than any other.
"We Believe, Forty Meditations on the Nicene Creed." is an excellent book on many levels.

In his book, We Believe, Rich Maffeo guides us on a journey to the core of our Catholic faith, The Nicene Creed. This prayer defines our church family and shows us with fresh eyes the cornerstone, Jesus the Christ. Every time we recite this prayer, we proclaim in union with the angels, the prophets, and the Saints, the divinity and humanity of Jesus. It summarizes God's unconditional love for us, and the path of salvation.

Each meditation is simple, profound, and thought provoking. It exposes us to a better understanding of our need for a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus!

This is a must read for all Catholics and non-Catholics curious about our traditions and our ways of worship.

I strongly recommend this book to be added to all churches resource libraries. It is an excellent tool to help the youth prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation. The book provides daily living examples and show the youth ways to find Jesus in the midst of their busy lives.



Tannia E. Ortiz-Lopés is a writer by profession, a mother by choice, and a wife by the covenant of marriage. She was born in Guayama, Puerto Rico and currently lives in Germany with her husband and two sons. On 2004, she published her first free-style inspirational poetry book, The Window To My Soul : My Walk With Jesus (Tate Publishing) under the pen name of Mary Magdalene. In March 2006, the book was voted "Best Poetry Book" by www.christianstoryteller.com

Visit the author at: www.myspace.com/tanniaortizlopes, and http://timewithtannia.tripod.com/

Richard Maffeo has written a winner with "We Believe, Forty Meditations on the Nicene Creed."

This is a moving, beautifully written book. It offers easy-to-read sections (two to three pages each) with a Nicene Creed statement, a scriptural focus, very warm and human stories from the author's own experience, and a prayer.

"We Believe" is a book that invites not just meditation on the Nicene Creed (which would be enough in itself) but also an applicable Scriptural reference, and stories which invite the readers to participate in the meditations as they recall their own stories. In this way, a simple book accomplishes depth very ably.

My book club chose "We Believe" for our May 2007 book, and it was enjoyed by all. Its user-friendly format makes it easy to read personally or as a group selection.

I highly recommend this book. It will take you to surprising places in gentle and supportive ways.

"We Believe" June 28,2007
A D "Bud" Niebergall, Fircrest, WA.

Richard's book, "We Believe", Forty Meditations on the Nicene Creed, is long overdue. I have waited for many years to see and "hear" the deep truths of Christianity revealed and described in such a down to earth, straight forward manner.
The Nicene Creed, explained in the context of the Word of God and Richard's personal life, is unique and a real winner. His uncluttered manner of expression, gives a simplicity and power that can be readily taken into the heart of Catholic Christians, especially those who may never see or examine a Vatican Encyclical, or a Catholic Catechism.
I would recommend "We Believe" as a "must read" for any Christian in search of truth, and new life in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Thank you Richard,the book has been an inspiration to me.

In reading Jerry Katz's book, "One" which is collection of what is written on the non-dual state, the chapter with sample pages from Bernadette Roberts book "What is Self?" was riveting. Having read thousands of books on practices leading to "enlightenment" this is new ground. Few persons having this experience are able to articulate the experience into language understandable to any degree. I have no doubt many from various religions have reached this state though Bernadette Roberts is from the Christian tradition and this possibly brings the experience more understandable as opposed to Sanskrit terms etc. I will add Dr. David R. Hawkins books, videos on his experiences of the non-dual state are excellent, too. Books are "Eye of the I", "I",and "Discovery of the Presence of God: Devotional Non-duality."
It took me many years to discern that psychic experiences and general paranormal experiences are merely symptoms on the way to the non-dual state and should be ignored as opposed to being a goal to expand upon if one wishes to experience the non-dual state aka enlightenment.
This book is a masterpiece in my opinion.

This experiential description from a christian perspective has left me awe-struck. I went on the path of eastern religions after discovering the access to truth our medieaval mystics e.g Hadewich, Ruusbroeck, Eckehart and Thomas a Kempis had achieved around the 13th century AD. However they did not show me the way to this truth and Christianity as it was explained to me was totally devoid of it. After 35 years of zen buddhist practice I touch on this book and I am dumbfounded by the deep similarities AND the differences between Christianity and Buddhism as direct experiential religions. It has allowed me to resonate deeply with these aspects of reality as are labeled Trinity and Resurrection.
It is clear that the difference in our society is not going to be made by Eastern traditions. It must come from our own tradition. But then this tradition has to stop clinging to a dead mythic past and become alive to the here and now. I want to thank Bernadette deeply for this courageous deed of going down her path unerring and making it available to us all by writing it down so lucidly.
Thank you Bernadette.

I found this an amazing, inspiring account of a very deep spiritual journey. Bernadette Roberts describes the causal, non-dual, no-self experience in a manner both clear, logical and profoundly unsettling. Not many people reach this place, or even know if its existence. The fact that an "ordinary person" can describe her journey in clear terms is profoundly inspiring. The structure of the book is a bit garbled and repetitious, representing as it does four separate 'essays'. Her insights into the Trinitarian nature of Reality are provocative and sometimes hard to follow (altho this may represent may own limited capabilities!) This minor flaw makes the book a human endeavour and does not diminish my overall recommendation.

So pleased to have connected with this very unusual offering. Roberts spends the first half of the book explaining in great detail - sometime tediously, but in the end thoroughly and with stunning insight - the nature of all self identity - Small Self, Big Self, or as some refer to it, True Self and consciousness. Her conclusion is that they are all temporary, mutually supporting constructs that fall away as one matures along the human journey. Her description of the "no self" condition - her ability to describe "no self" to readers who assume identity as being the one absolutely, irreducible, personal accessory is an amazing accomplishment. Beyond unitive consciousness, Roberts describes conditions of pure knowing without a knower. And not as some have led us to believe - not God realized, omniscient knowing. Instead a knowing that includes the sober realization that all that has been previously "known" was really and unavoidably, mere self reflection. Roberts, now in her seventies is described by those who know her as, "A Force Of Nature." Having spent her early years in a convent threading a path parallel to St.'s. Teresa and John of the Cross, Mrs. Roberts is now devoted to her family - having long ago left cloistered life to marry and raise her children. Present day philosopher, Ken Wilber predicts that our human developmental/spiritual ceiling will continue to rise - just as we see looking back to the 16th century when Christian mystics assumed that the highest level of development was an ecstatic, I/Thou, union with God. Bernadette Roberts takes the reader with her beyond this previously supposed end game - charting new waters, higher ground and finally leaving us to understand that beyond self there remains knowing without a knower with still more to come. And, that as frightening as death of self identity may be - it is natural and necessary that we take this final step, as she assures - all, someday will. A great resource, best suited for well grounded, sturdy thinkers.

Without a doubt, Bernadette Roberts is the clearest, most incisive writer in our time on the mystical splendor of Christianity. Stunning is the range and depth of Robert's presentation of the essential Christian Mysteries in What is Self? As you contact the abyss of beauty in God that this book reveals, you will fall in love with God ever more deeply. This book is without peer, in any century, as a systematic presentation of Christian mysticism.
Joseph Conti, Ph.D.
Dept. of Comparative Religion
California State University at Fullerton

I found this book to be incredibly amazing and thought provoking. I am currently reading Palmer's first book "Divine Nobodies" and i would recommend that as well. it really struck a chord with me and everyone should think about picking it up!

I am likely one of a few who never read Divine Nobodies. I was lured to this book by the emphatic reviews and perspectives offered by the reviews both professional and the ones on Amazon. I was also enticed by the book McLaren claimes is by the NEW Don Miller (I pray for whatever happened to the last one).

Jim offers a refreshing perspective for those tired of church. This goes for those from everything from Traditional to Mega to Emerging church. Jim redefines church for the past couple of generations that have been stifled by the institutional merchants of religion that have occupied the leadership of most churches.

Jim is not peddling some new model. He is modeling however a life led by daily communion with the Spirit of God. It is a connection that is often preached, but rarely exhibited in the institutional church. Our centuries of reliance upon leadership to identify where God is at work has left us blind to the Kingdom that God is building all around us. Jim challenges us to open our eyes, remove the lens of the modern faith, and to follow the model of Christ with reckless abandonment. Stop going to a church and start behaving like a little Christ. Stop being defined by a faith that revolves around your thoughts about Christ, and redefine others perspective of those that follow Jesus by showing love. Stop trying to proselytize through confrontation, and put your arm around the shoulder of a stranger. Jim's approach to faith is a breath of fresh air. Every page and story brings a better perspective of a life lived in connection to a living God.

As a warning to some, Jim does bring to the table some perspectives that are seeming Eastern at times. They may be difficult to buy. Oddly enough, I do not believe he cares if you buy them. Ponder on them and grind them out. Digging tough these deep and hugely consequential thoughts will greatly add to your faith.

Now go and love.

As I read Wide Open Spaces, I found myself recalling my childhood experience of wading into the ocean, progressively further from shore. At a certain point, the breakers begin to wash over me --- it's uniquely, experientially refreshing. Yet, there are several seconds before the next set of waves is upon me. This respite gives one the opportunity to ponder and absorb the invigoration and wonder of it all. Today, as an adult, this experience still has the ability to transform me into experiencing childlike wonder --- one who cannot fathom the thought of ever getting out of the water --- of producing all sorts of questions, curiosities, thanks and hopes. It's magical. My prayer (and my hope) is that this book will have the same effect on you --- producing a childlike wonder for experiencing God in new ways --- that will endure for a lifetime. Soak in this book. Thank you Jim!

It is a rare achievement for any artist to follow their first work - one that remains as highly acclaimed as Divine Nobodies, with a follow-on work that is unequivocally better than the first. Jim Palmer has done it with Wide Open Spaces.

The reading of Wide Open Spaces is not optional. It's mandatory if you are one who desires to know God and be love in our world today. This book is an epic contribution to the way ahead. It is an indelible blessing.

The implications of Wide Open Spaces are clear for the spiritual sojourner and the possibilities for a way of life for those who deeply desire something more in how they experience God on a day-to-day basis:

a. Many feel trapped and confined within the belief systems that they have inadvertently adopted as knowing God. As Jim points out, this is an unfortunate reality that can and must be overcome. This book will speak freedom to those who are currently living within the confines of this deception.

b. Safe harbors become stagnant waters for marine life. The results of a relationship with Christ based solely upon a dependence upon right beliefs is a relationship with belief systems, not God, according to Palmer. The resultant stagnation for the human species is the same as it is for marine life, confined to similar environs.

c. Today, followers of Jesus require voices, like Jim Palmer's, to lead us beyond the man-made breakwaters to the blessing of living in the Wide Open Spaces, exploring the endless possibilities for sustenance and transformation on the open seas of faith.

d. Perhaps, it is here, in these waters, where mankind may come to know God and be love.

This book will definitely facilitate "dialogue" --- my sense it that it will be most intense from the pulpits of the "people of the steeple" (my term, not Jim's). Palmer challenges us to rethink the implications of our penchant with possessing "right beliefs about God," and the obvious Us vs. them, win-lose behavior this creates. Maybe "God wants love to be our belief system?"(p.7). Maybe that's what God really is anyway.

I adored some of the following excerpts penned by Jim:

As Jim states (p. xi), "I am writing for the person who desires to know God as a person, not a program."

"But what if God is bigger than a belief system? What if God is bigger than self, than family, bigger than tribe, bigger than nation, and even bigger than any set of doctrines we try to wrap around him. Whereas religion sometimes brings out the worst in people, could the vision of a bigger God cause us to place higher value on expanding our circles of care and working toward a more peaceful world?" ( p. 2).

"There isn't a lockbox at the center of the universe containing a divine computer program with doctrinal code." (p. 3)

"God is not a belief system of truth propositions; he is a living spiritual reality within us. Two thousand years later, this is still the secret to knowing God." (p. 11).

"We want to figure God out in our head, while God wants us to feel him in our heart." (p. 20. ).

"God provides plenty of opportunity to be the church in the midst of doing ordinary life together with others." (p. 33).

"The more I've been digging around in church history, the more I've seen that the true history of the church often takes its course through the generations of those who were despised by organized Christendom." (p. 38).

"Too often religion becomes so preoccupied with self preservation that its adherents lose touch with their spiritual identity as the hands and feet of God in the world." (p. 94).

"The value of a person to God is not determined by what percentage of his or her theology is correct." (p. 98).

"Religion normally assumes their answers are the right and doesn't take too kindly to people opening topics for further investigation." (p.164).

"If you're willing to be curious about God like a child, you'll find that he is much bigger than what a grownup mind is capable of conceiving. I've learned not to limit God to "the box" of my current set of beliefs because there always seems to be something new and more just outside the lines of my present understanding. If you're open to the wonder of God, you won't be disappointed." (p. 175).

"Have people heard the "gospel" repeatedly and become weary of it --- you know, weary of unconditional love and peace? Or has the gospel been replaced by a Christianity devoid of true love, joy and peace, and now focused on preserving outworn structures, traditions and the status-quo?" (p. 187).

"Virtually every significant thing God has ever done to birth his kingdom has been contrary to human logic and has come through the least likely people." (p.188).

"Be love." (p. 195).

Jim Palmer is a master story teller and evidences the depth and breadth of his skills in this book. Reading a work by Palmer is like listening to a friend seated next to you. An extraordinary, breakwater busting achievement for Mr. Palmer. May the waves of His blessings wash over us through this work. The #3 best book I have read in 2007.

Respectfully Submitted,

Bill Dahl

Jim accomplishes what might be one of the most difficult tasks in spiritual writing: Exploring faith and spirituality without resorting to impersonal tradition-based jargon. In Wide Open Spaces, Jim explores his struggle to make the Apostle Paul's teaching Christ being the center of all of our relationships.

As he did in Divine Nobodies, Jim writes unguardedly. He is honest, self-depreciating and humorous.

My own exploration of the issues has led me to, perhaps, some different conclusions than Jim. But Jim nails what matters most-- love.

Just two books into his career, and Jim should again be grouped with the likes of Lamott and Donald Miller.

With some beautiful insight on the Christian faith, Jim Palmer tells of his faith journey without the support of the church institution. This book could easily fall into the trap of church-bashing, but Palmer has more of a "that didn't work for me but it could work for others" attitude. Through his own experiences and insights, he encourages the reader to look at his/her own spiritual journey and leads towards a deeper understanding of his/her concept of God and religion.
Anyone who appreciates the Don Miller style and depth of writing will enjoy Jim Palmer's new book. This is one of the few books I will keep and reread for many years to come. Happy reading!