Religion and Spirituality Books


Books-Under-Review-->Kids and Teens-->People and Society-->Religion and Spirituality-->26
Related Subjects: Organizations Christianity Judaism
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250
Religion and Spirituality Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Religion and Spirituality
Holy the Firm
Published in Hardcover by Harpercollins (1977-05)
Author: Annie Dillard
List price: $12.95
New price: $14.88
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $12.95

Average review score:

My favorite book of all time
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-25
This has been my favorite book ever since I read it in 1994. Its perfection is other-worldly. If you are a Dillard novice, better to start with "An American Childhood," to get a sense of the author and her style. It is about growing up, experiencing wonder, becoming fully alive. "Holy the Firm" borders on a spiritual meditation; some of my friends have found it too abstract. Whatever you do, steer clear of "The Maytrees," Dillard's most recent book--it doesn't measure up.

A small, rather opaque work of beauty.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-10
Annie Dillard is a creator of writing that frequently works like poetry trapped in prose's body. This little offering, in three jewel-like parts, is rather like her more extended "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek": a gorgeous and unflinching experience of the natural world, an angry wrestling with the problem of suffering and a theological discussion in light of these two other preoccupations. The theology in "Holy the Firm" is thus grounded in trauma and reality but expressed in heady, spinning, sometimes impenetrable language that highlights the mysteries within her subject but at the same time obscured for me what attitudes of the heart or mind she had come to at the end of her struggles. I finished the book still feeling rather angry myself and, perhaps unsurprisingly, unsatisfied.

Recommended (especially the hilarious description of Sunday in a small Episcopalian Church).

Awe, sarcasm, hope and despair
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-02
This is a gift from Annie Dillard. She share her struggle with the question of "What kind of God would let --- happen?" Whose responsibility is it? Do we matter one whit to God? Dillard shares her pain, her longing for truth, her disappointment, her faith with grace and soaring language. It is a short book but is definitely not an easy read.

Ponder the definition of Holy the Firm, as believed by esoteric Christianity. "It is a created substance, lower than metals and minerals on a 'spiritual scale,' and lower than salts and earths, occurring beneath salts and earths in the waxy deepness of planets, but never on the surface of planets where men could discern it; and it is in touch with the Absolute, at base."

"Does something that touched something that touched Holy the Firm in touch with the Absolute at base seep into ground water, into grain; are islands rooted in it, and trees? Of course."

Then there is Dillard's description of the risk of losing someone you love.
"And you can get caught holding one end of a love, when your father drops, and your mother; when a land is lost, or a time, and your friend blotted out, gone, your brother's body spoiled, and cold, your infant dead, and you dying: you reel out love's long line alone, stripped like a live wire loosing its sparks to a cloud, like a live wire loosed in space to longing and grief everlasting."

Spiritually terse observations that can fling away logical and humanistic dribble.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-15
In Holy the Firm, Annie Dillard certainly can not be accused for excess verbiage. Her little book, consisting of less than eighty pages, is a thoughtful and sometimes intense investigation into the soul. One can almost imagine her staring deeply at a flowing river or a particular kind of tree and genuinely seeing Divinity in and around it, authentically feeling it and being transportated to the nether reaches of the unexplained. Yet, it is a good place or moment where nothing can touch you or hurt you. It is the zone where you have that elongated, never ending epihany. However, in Holy the Firm, she has that exact moment or moments, citing a couple of specific occasions and or happenings: a moth engulfed in a candle flame, a child severely burned in an airplane mishap and lastly, a baptism on a chilly day on a beach. Her stabbing gaze and visual processing is an inherent endowment for us all but very seldom used, sad to say. Each example that she bethinks, on the surface, looks violent and harsh and horrible. But behind that mask of the unpleasant, there is profound cheer at the transformation of the perception, of soul development, and yes, of course, of the logical, humanistic and psychological plain of thought processing, filtering and transforming. The essay, in no uncertain terms, conveys a kind of WOW factor that says, I don't really know how this whole thing operates, but isn't it amazing nonetheless? The deity of God has to be here, right in front of our very eyes, every moment, every instance, every half second. Holiness is under a rock, in people, in nature, in moments (good and bad), one giant gelatinous glob with so many tags and definitions attached to it. But only the Holy makes it cohesive and function. This work is not so little in its implications and gratitude. There is a majesty here, an august celebration. And we're all in it together, a gem of a book!

Spilling the Beans
Helpful Votes: 23 out of 23 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-06
While attending Western Washington University I had the great good fortune to take a poetry class from Annie Dillard. My own poetry was abysmal and she gave me this advice, "writing is like prayer; you sit and listen for the still small voice." She had won the Pulitzer prize for Pilgrim at Tinker Creek and was in the process of writing Holy the Firm while at Fairhaven College at Western. She read us the bits about the moth and the flame. This is her slenderest book, but the one in which she most takes her own advice. It's prose that reads like poetry.

This is a book that makes me think that everything else I've ever read was only approximate use of language to convey some idea. In this book it seems like every word is carefully chosen, as if it comes from some place of meditation, of listening to a still small voice. It's a very human book, for all the sparks of the divine. By another accident I heard her read from it at the University of Washington. The final passage seemed to rise to a climax and hang in the air. No one spoke, no one left. It was one of those magical moments. Holy the Firm is all one piece and can be read through in one sitting as one experience. It's very much a writer's book, and I see most of the reviews are by writers finding some echo in a fellow writer. Some reviewers have put much better than I what it's about. I merely suggest that Dillardians (and other readers) may enjoy this oft-overlooked book.

Religion and Spirituality
If God Hears Me, I Want an Answer!
Published in Paperback by Rose Group (2006-08-01)
Author: Barbara Rose
List price: $12.95
New price: $7.37
Used price: $5.17

Average review score:

If God Hears Me, I Want an Answer
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-14
Don't be fooled by the easy read of this powerful book. The exercises in this book really do help you understand that which is deep in your soul.
I have enjoyed the book so much I have gifted others with the copy.
They too have had great results from reading and doing the exercises in the book.
I believe you will not be disappointed in purchasing a copy.
Enjoy

life changing
Helpful Votes: 13 out of 14 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-29
I've had a hard time getting out of my own head - or so I thought. Reading this book made me realize that those first thoughts are the answers I am asking for - its all the other stuff that I think behind it that get me in trouble! Anyway, free form writing has always been a good source of information to me. Applying it to specific questions has helped me gain clarity in numerous situations. This is now on my list of recommended reading to those who really wish to know themselves and God.

You should own this book!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-15
Imagine someone telling you how you can get ANY question answered from God/Higher Source/Divine Intelligence. It works! It is so simple and easy to use. I just cannot say enough wonderful things about it! Thank you Barbara Rose!!!

A Book of wondrous thoughts, and wondrous meanings.
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-13
I feel this book has an amazing content of truly amzing words, described as being "Gods Words" in my full faith of having read this book, these words are set out to enlighten people of how it actually is to become your true-self, rather then a fabricated person whom thinks, and feels from their outer-self - there egotistiscal-self.

Superb!
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-10
Another truly wonderful book by ""Barbara". This book gives such a clear message. I recommend to anyone looking for the right answers to a more productive and calmer life style.

Religion and Spirituality
If How-To's Were Enough We Would All be Skinny, Rich and Happy
Published in Paperback by Insight Publishing Group (2004-10-15)
Author: Brian Klemmer
List price: $11.99
New price: $11.98
Used price: $5.30
Collectible price: $44.99

Average review score:

Wish I read it sooner
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-10
This is the book that provides the Rosetta Stone for all other personal development books.

Some of the Old + Something New, Too
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-24
The concepts of this book run so deep and wide that if you just read it off in 2-4 hours in one sitting, you will miss the whole point of the book. This book takes the self-help genre to a new level. Not only from my experience with this book and from meeting the author behind the book, but also from the experience of all of the people I know who have read it, I can say that essentially, to anyone with an open mind, this stuff is awesome. Klemmer's other book about intentions running smack into reality is even better.

The merit of this book lies not in fancy language nor impressive theories and facts. What makes this book different is the RESULTS it produces. Nothing speaks louder than RESULTS.

Creating Bonds
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-06
I read this book with my students and they are amazed at what they have learned! It has changed the atmosphere of my classroom. I am willing to risk with them and they know they can trust me.

I recommend this for people that are serious about getting what they want out of life or more of what they want out of life. I know I have gotten better communication, a sense of respect for myself and others and a lot more of what I want out of life.

For Effective Personal Growth, Inside-Out is the Way to Go!
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2002-04-02
Brian Klemmer is a master craftsman in this incredible colletion of short expositions relating to topics for Personal Mastery. The author's great insights present the reader with spell-binding synopses of reflections about human paradigms, relationships, and effective methods for changing one's viewpoint from where they've always viewed things in the past, based on their experiences. It's a must read for anyone looking to seriously embark on a personal growth journey. Beyond information, beyond motivation, this book fosters growth from the inside out, which makes it extremely unique and exclusive.

If how to's were enough, we would all be skinny, rich and ha
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-08
Anyone who is stuck in his (or her) life, not making the progress he would like, should incorporate these concepts. Brian gave me the tools that I needed. Not only have I made exponential progress, but my husband is so pleased with his "new" wife that he is going to the next level, too. ANYONE,(yes, I mean you!) can take this book and find what is holding him back and ZOOM ahead. Brian is a master teacher!

Religion and Spirituality
The Journey That Never Was: A Guide to Hearing God's Voice Regardless of One's Faith, Religion, or Personal Beliefs
Published in Paperback by Foundation for Right-Mindedness (2005-03)
Authors: Davidpaul Doyle and Candace Doyle
List price: $17.95
New price: $14.95
Used price: $1.87
Collectible price: $26.93

Average review score:

A wonderful spiritual "how to" book
Helpful Votes: 16 out of 17 total.
Review Date: 2005-05-06
I had been praying to be able to hear the Holy Spirit clearly in me so I could be guided in my daily life. This book is the answer to that prayer. It is a simply written but profound book that is very practical. There are several exercises one can do to learn to hear His voice and they work! The Holy Spirit is not some abstract idea it turns out! He is actually there as my own personal guide. It has given my life a wonderful new dimension and peace. So what are you waiting for?

A MUST Read to Really Hear God's Voice
Helpful Votes: 22 out of 23 total.
Review Date: 2005-05-21
DavidPaul and Candace Doyle bring humanity an unprecedented enlightening spiritual book, with the message of "hearing God's voice" at all times. There is one quote from this book that I would like to share with you.
"Hearing God's voice is your most natural ability and it serves you unconditionally. God's voice has one purpose and that is to restore you to the truth of who you are, and it will do that in whatever ways you seek."

"The Journey That Never Was" will lift you to your Divine truth, your God essence, and the book reads with such pure unconditional love, you will be uplifted on all levels in the most positive of ways. This book is a definite MUST READ, it is a profound beacon for humanity.

Barbara Rose, Ph.D. author of Stop Being the String Along: A Relationship Guide to Being THE ONE and Know Yourself: A Woman's Guide to Wholeness, Radiance & Supreme Confidence

Excellent spiritual teaching
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-27
Davidpaul & Candace Doyle have found something - a way to contact our inner guide so that we may live a more authentic and loving life. This book has been one of the most spiritually enlightening books I've read since A Course in Miracles. Davidpaul & Candace seem like very humble individuals spreading a true message of how to connect with God. Thank you Doyles!

Okay
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2006-12-01
This may be for some however I truly recommend going straight to the source. The ACIM does not state things that are contained within this book. In other words, if you are a "Course in Miracles" student, go to that book itself. This book can mislead and some thing sound like they are straight from Kenneth Wapnicks pages when he states things that are not contained within the Course. When you teach ACIM for any length of time, one can usually tell where people are getting their teachings. Many of these are NOT from the Course. Nothing against Ken, he just says some things are in the course that are not.

This author states that the Holy Spirit says there are 6 Billion of Gods children on Earth. The course is all inclusive, and would not single out human beings so this is completely inaccurate. Next, to state that God does not know what is happening and we are here is false. Robert Perry and the book from The Circle of Atonement called "One Course two visions" addresses this point (In mass detail) in regards to Ken Wapnick stating the same thing. Those authors stay true to the Course itself whereas this book veers into territory that may help some but they will ultimately have to relearn and let go of many of its teachings.

I want to say, I am not attempting to discredit these authors, they sound like wonderful people who are doing their best and help spreading the word. But we must be careful about what that word is and if it stays true to the words of Jesus in the Course. I have been a Course teacher/student for 13 years and believe it is highly important for us to get these things right. We have already had much history of what happens when interpretations of spiritual (or other) teachings hit the market.

So do not take my word (Or these authors), go straight to The Course and go to the guide within.

Hearing God's Voice
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2006-12-09
*****
The Journey That Never Was is a story of one couple's experience in learning to hear the voice or God, interspersed with teaching and elucidation about key concepts from "A Course in Miracles", helpful exercises, and more. Although the subtitle is "A guide to hearing God's Voice regardless of one's faith, religion, or personal beliefs", I think this book would be most useful to "A Course in Miracles" (ACIM) students. People on other spiritual paths would no doubt benefit from it, but some of the terminology might be a bit confusing. For example, in ACIM the term "Son of God" not only refers to Jesus, but to each of us as a child of God.

For ACIM students, this is a fascinating and fresh application and elucidation of many key ACIM concepts. The personal story of the authors is very helpful, too, as they are honest and transparent when discussing the ups and downs they've had in trying and eventually learning to hear God's voice.

The chapters on Prayer and Meditation, in particular, are outstanding. They discuss in depth the difference between prayer (which they define as talking to God) and meditation (which they define as listening to God). The book has a focus, too, on achieving what the authors call "Right-Mindedness" (this is also the name of their website), which they see as perceiving reality as what is really true rather than in the ways we have projected it to be true. The exercises are truly helpful in learning to discern God's voice.

One reviewer was distressed that this book contains concepts that are not found in ACIM, which is true. It is one couple's interpretation of ACIM, so it contains their own opinions, ideas, and applications. The book purports to be able to guide anyone regardless of "faith, religion, or personal beliefs". It's not intended to be first and foremost a teaching guide to ACIM, so I appreciated the "extra" information---it was sort of like discussing spiritual concepts with friends, mentors, or teachers.

So if you're looking for pure ACIM, this isn't the book for you. If you're just really wanting to hear God's voice more clearly, or have a closer relationship with Spirit and don't care that it is based on ACIM, this would be a wonderful book for you, and I think you would learn a lot. I think that this would be a book that could be appreciated by new students to ACIM or by advanced students of ACIM---both groups would get different things from it. I think that anyone else could find much to like here, too, and to learn from, if they are looking for insight into having a closer spiritual life in relationship to a Higher Power.
*****

Religion and Spirituality
Just Give Me Jesus
Published in Audio Cassette by Thomas Nelson (2000-05-15)
Author: Anne Graham Lotz
List price: $16.99
New price: $6.00
Used price: $6.00

Average review score:

A Homeless Encounter - a sign of hope
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-08
The Ann Graham Lotz's book on "Just Give Me Jesus" was a conduit that provided the strength and encouragement to a homeless person.... I was just an instrument on God's behalf, that while serving the homeless people at a homeless shelter I encountered a man who had read one of the "tracks" I leave out for people to read, on the powerful message of Jesus Christ and how they can save their lives through his amazing grace. On the back of the track was a short summary about the book "Just Give Me Jesus". This homeless person wanted me to pray with him and after doing so, he pointed to the picture of the book and said while reading the track he got goose bumps and would like to read this book. I told him I would try to get him the book and will bring it the next time I come to serve. I ordered this book off of Amazon and took it to him. He was shocked I remembered and was overjoyed about receiving the book. Several others whom are in the same situation as he, also expressed a desire to read it. Their hunger and thirst for the hope that only Jesus can give was such an inspiration to me and a powerful message.... Praise God for answered prayers! It was such a blessing to me to be able to give this man this book.

Jen

Just Give Me Jesus
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-07
I have gotten the book but have read only a couple of chapters. The book was in very good condition when I received it and I am thankful I was able to get it at a good price.

Thanks, Amazon!!

Donald (Shirley) Schlegel

Unquestionably, Anne Graham Lotz knows how to leave one knowing they are loved by the God of the universe.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-14
I read this quite a while ago; It was my first book by this author. I never forgot her, either. Then I saw her on T.V. one day, and I noticed that her eyes were on fire by the Holy Spirit, and her adoration of the Lord encompassed every word she spoke. This author is genuine, and her writings have a tender way in which they woo and lull the reader into a deeper walk with Jesus. I simply love everything Anne Graham Lotz writes. Thank you Anne, for making our tumultuous world easier to bear with your sweet words.

Carrie Lynn Jones
Author of It All Began... When Jesus Gave Me Sneakers

Just Give Me Jesus
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-09
This book is incredible!! It's the first book I have read of Anne Graham Lotz and it will not be the last. I love her writing and relate to her on so many levels! The more I learn about Jesus, the more I agree with Anne - Jesus is all I want and all I need!

Excellent if you are serious about your faith
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-09
I loved this book. It gave me so many other views of how a true Christian should follow after Jesus. It was an eye opener when it came to the world view versus a Christian view of life and the tribulations that comes along with it. I am so blessed to have read this book, and highly recommend it for ALL women of faith that is struggling with their purpose and why God created them. Just Give Me Jesus is all about a woman's purpose and her role in society. Anne Graham Lotz hit it right on the point. I am a changed woman because of this book. Jennifer Rankins

Religion and Spirituality
The Magic of the Soul: Applying Spiritual Power to Daily Living
Published in Paperback by Peak Publications (2002-09-01)
Author: Patrick J. Harbula
List price: $18.95
New price: $14.65
Used price: $3.04
Collectible price: $39.99

Average review score:

Magic
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-25
After taking Patrick's meditation workshop on applying "The Secret" to your own life, and having it be my 1st meditation experience ever, I was hungry for more and asked Patrick specifically if he could recommend a book with a cd for follow up on meditation practice. He grinned and produced a book without even telling me it was his own. The book is a great read, and has a meditation cd on the back cover.
I truly believe the soul is magical and is working round the clock in ways we don't often notice. When we open our hearts, we will see manifestation of just what we wish for appear at just the right time, before our very eyes. Patrick's work is truly inspirational. Bought them as gifts for my soul circle of friends. Highly recommend.

The CD Alone Has Magic
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-06
The CD alone is worth the price of the book! Patrick's soothing voice, eloquent words and spiritual wisdom are truly a rich blessing.
Ed Rockey, Ph.D.
Professor and Department Chair
Pepperdine University

Profoundly Practical
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-03
I highly recommend this book wherever you are on your spiritual path. "The Magic of the Soul" is loaded with practical tools you can use everyday. Patrick's personal experiences, inner journeys and spiritual studies culminate in this book and are shared as gifts for the reader. The book comes with a remarkable CD full of guided meditations. I especially love the guided visualizations where Patrick's voice is an enchanting journey to our own inner wisdom and love. Author Patrick Harbula is the consumate teacher that you can experience for yourself through his classes, workshops, retreats and certifications at the Life Purpose Institute. I encourage you to experience the magic of the message with Patrick.

Spiritual Clarity & Ascendency
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-01
Patrick has ascended elegantly so far in this life. He is a gracious, kind and unconditionally loving soul and this comes through brilliantly in his "The Magic of the Soul." I encourage people interested in their own spiritual and practical self development to experience his words, thoughts and meditations. We are blessed to have this wonderful man in our time. Read, enjoy, ascend...

A profound, practical, life altering book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-03
Patrick Harbula's "Magic of the Soul" is one of those rare books that I picked up and could not put down, and that I have revisited many times as a source of inspiration and enlightenment. As a child, I loved watching magic acts and was mesmerized as I observed magicians seemingly pulling things out of nothing and transforming objects. Throughout this book, Patrick reminds us that our spiritual nature enables us to perform this "magical process" of calling forth greater goodness into our lives and our world than we have ever known. I particularly appreciated his practical insights on how we can transform our life challenges into something good and meaningful without denying the pain or discomfort we experience as we move through them. I cannot thank Patrick enough for the ways that his work has enriched my life, and how it has supported me in my work as a minister and spiritual counselor.

Religion and Spirituality
The Mass of the Early Christians
Published in Paperback by Our Sunday Visitor (2007-06-05)
Author: Mike Aquilina
List price: $13.95
New price: $8.27
Used price: $8.54

Average review score:

A must read
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-27
This book is a must read for anyone who thinks that the Catholic Mass is not scriptural or follows the teachings of Jesus. The book clearly lays out and ties together the Mass of the Catholic Church with the teachings of Paul and the traditions Christ himself followed as a faithful Jew. The section of the Church Fathers, which documents the teachings of the first generation of teachers who where taught by the Apostles, clearly shows what the early Christian Church, before the reformation, believed and professed concerning the celebration of regular liturgy and Communion. An excellent resource for Ministers and lay teachers along with The Teachings of the Church Fathers
The Fathers of the Church, Expanded Edition

Compelling
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-11
Through the use of primary sources with minimum interjection of commentary, Mr. Aquilina provides a compelling account of the early mass. It is a challenge to the idea of a primitive and simplistic church model that instead shows us how well-formed the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist were very early in the church. From the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist to the development of church government and use of scripture, this will be a serious challenge for inquisitive non-Catholic believers. Mr. Aquilina does a fine job of letting the early church speak for itself in describing the heart of worship in spirit and truth. This little book is packed and will be a great resource for church historians and theologians of the mass. Very readable yet profound and engaging.

The early martyrs asserted that they could not live without the mass. You may find yourself drawn to the same conclusion. Be forewarned, Mr. Aquilina's passion for the early church and the mass is infectious. But you will not be sorry if you catch it. You will also want his other superb work, The Fathers of the Church, Expanded Edition.

Excellent Resource
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-18
This book is an updating of an earlier edition, though the amount of additional material added (six new chapters and extensive material added to previous chapters!) easily justifies purchase for owners of the first edition.

The outstanding feature of this book is its excellent blend of primary texts and commentary. There is simply no substitute for reading the Church Fathers in their own words, and Aquilina does an outstanding job of selecting and editing the patristic texts most relevant to the liturgy of the early Church. Aquilina does not shy away from the ambiguity inherent in most patristic discussions of the liturgy, and provides a good discussion of the disciplina arcani and its impact on the writings of the early Fathers.

Each primary text is preceded by a short introduction which provides historical context for each author. Aquilina's prose is clear and lucid, and is easily accessible to the average reader. I would highly recommend this book to "beginners" who are interested in learning about the liturgy of the earliest Christians.

For those who are more experienced in their study of the Church Fathers, this book is an excellent compendium of primary texts on the early liturgy, and I would recommend it as a valuable resource for topical study. I have used in my own studies to avoid dragging out weightier tomes and hunting for references.

This book is an excellent resource, well-written, and should occupy a place of importance on the bookshelf.







The Mass of the Early Christians
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-01
Every Christian should read this - it is heartening to know what we celebrate at Mass today is as it was in the early Church

Great resource on so many levels
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-04
I had been looking forward to reading the 2nd edition of Mike Aquilina's The Mass of the Early Christians and I certainly was not disappointed. This is absolutely a great book and I believe required reading for anybody who wants to read on the early form and development of the Mass.

Mike Aquilina takes us sequentially through history using documented sources to give us a good idea of how the Mass was originally celebrated. We of course have some idea of this from the New Testament and the book goes thoroughly through both Old and New Testament sources in reference to the Mass and we see over and over again how the Church Fathers did the same. Part of the development of the Mass is shrouded in history, especially concerning the Eucharistic celebration. Early Christians kept the Eucharistic celebration secret and seekers and catechumen were required to leave prior to the Eucharistic celebration. Early writers pretty much kept to this tradition and so often we only have oblique references to this and it only becomes more explicit after the Edict of Milan. I think this practice is a good thing to meditate on in how sacred the early Christians viewed this celebration and how cavalier we can think of it.

Despite this lack of openness regarding the liturgy there are still a lot of good clues to give us an insight into these early celebrations and we of course find that they are not much different in structured compared to our current celebrations. Part II - The Testimony of Witnesses is the largest part of the book and starts with the New Testament, the Didache and then then chapters focusing on individuals such as Church Fathers and other historical sources including some Pagan and Gnostic ones. I really like how he laid out the book because instead of getting brief texts from multiple sources we get much fuller texts from these authors when they reference the liturgy. This book is not a listing of all the texts available on the early church, but does contain a prominent sampling of them. As Mike Aquilina mentions including all of them would have made the book twice as large and I think he came up with a great compromise. I much prefer the fuller texts along with full scriptural texts.

I found some of the Pagan sources quite fascinating along with some of the early accusations made against the Christians. I had of course heard of the cannibalism charges, but some of the other charges made makes Church reporting by the modern media quite tame in contrast. The best part those are of the Church's witnesses and the insights they had towards the Mass and the view they give us of the early liturgies. This book can be used both for apologetics purposes and for spiritual reading. What I found most fascinating though was the texts from the Mass that still exist and the variety of them from the various geographical liturgies.

The last section of the book gives us a short and imaginative look at what it would have been like to go to a Mass in North Africa and a good idea of what it would have been like to go to one of these house Churches during the time the Church was being heavily persecuted.

Highly recommended for anybody.

Religion and Spirituality
A Night of Questions: A Passover Haggadah
Published in Paperback by Reconstructionist Press (1999-01-01)
Authors: Joy Levitt and Michael Strassfeld
List price: $22.00
New price: $22.00
Used price: $11.14

Average review score:

The only liberal Haggadah you will need
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-11
This year we had 25 to Sedar, so I ordered extra copies.
If you are looking for a liberal hagaddah, it has tremendous breadth and depth.

Most User-Friendly Haggadah
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-26
I have somewhere between 20 and 30 different Haggadot. A Night of Questions is not only one of the richest and most thought-provoking in my collection... it is also the most user-friendly. It's the only one that has a table of contents that breaks down the Maggid section into its familiar parts (4 Children, Dayenu, etc.) The outlines of 4 different types of seders in the back of the book are very helpful. There's something here for every one. The commentaries address the hard questions that are likely to arise in the minds of those who are really thinking about what we are saying, such as: "Would it really have been 'enough for us' had we come out of Egypt and not been given the Torah and not come into the Land of Israel?" IMPORTANT NOTE: I see that Amazon is showing this as 4-6 weeks delivery. I know that they are available from the publisher and you'll have them in time for Passover. Check out www.jrf.org."

Refreshing new Haggadah
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-25
This Haggadah has wonderful, contemporary discussions and presentations. The illustrations are beautiful.

The Best to Date
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2003-03-03
I have conducted sedorim (seders) for over 30 years and have used five different haggadot. This is the BEST! It explains, offers excellent commentary, provides choices in the kind of seder one might have, as well as providing frameworks for designing your own. I have used it for 2 years now and get rave reviews from the people who attend my sedorim.

The cd of the music of Pesach which is available, is a favorite as we prepare our home for the holiday.

It sure beats "Manishewitz".

This will get you out of a rut
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2003-02-12
Seders too often fall into a routine, with everyone slogging through the Hagaddah by rote. This is a lively, thought-provoking Hagaddah that will broaden and deepen your appreciation of Passover. It certainly has for my family.

Religion and Spirituality
Ordinary Girl - A Magical Child, An
Published in Library Binding by Magical Child Books (2008-01-05)
Author:
List price: $16.95
New price: $13.47
Used price: $13.42

Average review score:

A magical book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-05
I ordered this book for our library's collection (for education students, to help them understand all faiths their students might be), and I still have the habit of reading everything I order-and I'm very glad I read it.

The artwork is wonderful, but the real magic of this book is it's handling of many aspects of being raised Pagan. Young Rabbit has been raised Wiccan by her parents and each of the major rituals and Sabbats are examined from her point of view, as are their understandings of the dieties, how to deal with teasing, and stewardship of the Earth and other people. Stories of everyday life and ritual life are mixed in with explanations of Sabbats and there are great real-life examples of how to bring a child into Circle worship with parents. It makes me wish there was a larger family-centered Pagan community in my area to share with my son.
This is definatly a book written for an American child (it mentions the US more than once), but it would probably be appropriate for a UK Pagan, as well. Excellent resource for Pagan children up to about 3rd grade, for Pagan parents, and for educators or neighbors who have discovered there is a Witch in their community.

Ordinary Girl - A Magical Child
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-15
Beautiful art work. Execellent story and lesson for the pagan child or any child for that matter.

KIDS LOVE IT
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-11
I've read this story to my daughter dozens of times, and while she is only 2 she loves this book. I've had to memorize it because she pulls it into her lap and pretends to read as she turns the pages. Okay, enough of the cute stuff. Lyon has captured essential pagan themes and practices in an absolutely terrific story about Rabbit and how she has learned pagan customs and festivals. If you have been searching for that book to help your child understand your beliefs, stop now, get this book. P.S. SHE ILLISTRATES IT TOO. This is one seriously talented author.

One of a kind!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-01
My daughter loved this book and i learned a few things as well. It's a great tool for teaching children about their parents' pagan ways and covers alot of info about the 8 sabbats, circle, goddess, etc. It's written in the form of a 'storybook' but with all of this info contained within the story. I would highly recommend it!

Wonderful book, wonderful writer
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-08
First of all I need to say that I personally know Lyon. But don't let that make you think I'm biased.

All of Lyon's books are fun and down to earth so they can be enjoyed by both children and adults alike.

Not only does she write children's books, but lives the spiritual lifestyle as well.

If you have young children in your life and follow the pagan lifestyle, I'm confident you will not be disappointed in this or any of Lyon's books.

Highly recommended!!

Religion and Spirituality
Practicing His Presence (The Library of Spiritual Classics, Volume 1)
Published in Paperback by Christian Books Pub House (1988-06-02)
Authors: Brother Lawrence and Frank Laubach
List price: $9.95
New price: $5.20
Used price: $3.97
Collectible price: $13.00

Average review score:

Criminal Attorney
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-27
A wonderful book for silent meditation.
I prefer this book over The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence.

Short but Heavy with Light
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-30
Having been a long time Brother Lawrence fan I was leery of adding Frank Laubach's journal entires to this ancient classic. I was wrong. Laubach is a modern master who takes Brother Lawrence's simple way and brings it into the 20th century. After reading this short missive my friend and I have agreed together to practice the presence of Christ in everything that we might try this simple and beautiful way ourselves. Read this short guide and commit yourself to walking in the light. It's worth it.

Drawing Near to God
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-26
Excellent book for those who believe we exist for the glory and honor of God. It will help you get to the point where your agenda no longer controls your life. It will be his agenda that controls. Two classics in one book.

Truly Uplifting
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-22
I've read this book twice already and each time I read it, feels like the first time. This book is really intense. It made me realize how far off the mark I was with keeping God in my thoughts more often than I do. It's a life long practice, but once you read this book you'll never forget it and will keep coming bak to it at least once a year. It's also an excellent book to recommend to others who feel it's impossible to maintain God's presence all the time. The first time I read this book I became so much more aware of how little I think about God through the day and have been working on this practice ever since. I can honestly say I'm making progress. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a closer relationship with God.

A Must Read!
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-26
This book I believe is a must read by any Christian desiring to live an others centered self sacrificial broken life style before the Lord. This can only be acomplished by staying on our cross and allowing God to have all of us. Practicing His Presence will help us stay focussed on God through out our day. Learning from Frank Laubach and Brother Lawerence's experiences at trying to live this life style can be a blessing to all of us. If you want to know what Heaven will be like, read this book. Because in Heaven we will be in God's presence all the time. So shouldn't we be practicing it here on earth?


Books-Under-Review-->Kids and Teens-->People and Society-->Religion and Spirituality-->26
Related Subjects: Organizations Christianity Judaism
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250