Celtic Christian Spirituality: Essential Writings - Explained

The forgotten truths of Celtic Christianity provide a portal into a spiritual way of experiencing the world.

The Celtic Christians beheld the world around them and perceived the divine life of God as upholding every aspect of the material universe. Their prayers and poems, their liturgies and theological interpretations give Christians a sense of faith that is confident in a merciful and infinitely creative, healing God.

In this introduction to Celtic Christian spirituality, Mary Earle presents primary texts from the Celtic Christian tradition―selections from the works of Pelagius, Eriugena and St. Patrick, as well as prayers and poems from Wales, the Outer Hebrides and Ireland. These essential writings direct humanity to read the "book of creation" as well as the Bible, and call us to remember that “matter matters.” Earle's engaging facing-page commentary explores how faithful Christians and spiritual seekers can take inspiration from this lively tradition’s ways of embodying and living the gospel. Topics include:

• Creation
• Daily life and work
• Incarnation
• Pilgrimage
• Blessing
• Social justice
• Prayer

Mary C. Earle, an Episcopal priest, retreat leader and spiritual director, is the author of Julian of Norwich: Selections from Revelations of Divine Love―Annotated & Explained; The Desert Mothers: Spiritual Practices from the Women of the Wilderness and Celtic Christian Spirituality: Essential Writings―Annotated and Explained; and coauthor of Holy Companions: Spiritual Practices from the Celtic Saints and Praying with the Celtic Saints. In addition to four books on the spirituality of living with illness, she has written for explorefaith.org. She has been introducing the writings of Julian in seminary classes, retreats and conferences for over twenty years.

Mary C. Earle is available to speak on the following topics:

• The Weaving of Heaven and Earth: Celtic Christian Spirituality for Today
• Befriending: The Heart of Celtic Prayer and Practice
• The Book of Creation
• The Desert Mothers
• The Gift of Divine Rhythms: Sabbath Rest

John Philip Newell, internationally acclaimed teacher, retreat leader and speaker, is the widely read author of several books, including Listening for the Heartbeat of God, Praying with the Earth; A New Harmony: The Spirit, the Earth & the Human Soul and Rebirthing of God: Christianity's Struggle for New Beginnings (SkyLight Paths). Formerly warden of Iona Abbey in the Western Isles of Scotland, he is now companion theologian for the American Spirituality Center of Casa del Sol at Ghost Ranch in New Mexico and the co-founder of Heartbeat: A Journey Towards Earth's Wellbeing.