The American religious landscape is experiencing a decline in formal affiliation and attendance, but a vastly increasing interest in spirituality. According to a 2010 survey conducted by LifeWay Research, 72% of people age 17-29 consider themselves spiritual, rather than religious. The definition of "spiritual" in this rising designation is unclear, and may or may not include any personal or communal practice. Conversely, those who actively participate in a religious institution may count a weekly service of worship as the only spiritual practice they've ever known. Other expressions or notions of spirituality may be much less familiar, and even cause discomfort. Through anecdote, engagement with scripture, theological reflection, and practical application, Coffeehouse Contemplative: Spiritual Direction for the Everyday explores concepts of spirituality, prayer, and spiritual direction for those who are either unclear about these terms' meaning, or haven't considered it despite a lifetime of religious participation.Over the course of this book, the reader will be introduced to a variety of thinkers including Ignatius of Loyola, Brother Lawrence, Karl Rahner, and Teresa of Avila. Their writings and traditions will help shape a definition of spirituality as seeking a deeper connection with God and understanding of self, wherever we are and in whatever we do. To encourage further consideration of the subject matter, each chapter will include a list of questions for reflection in an individual or group context.
"'Spiritual direction' in many quarters often carries (unfair) overtones of theology that is more therapeutic than rigorous. In this text, Nelson defies that stereotype by demonstrating how the God-images at play in spiritual direction influence not only outcomes but also the rationale for why direction takes place. Written from a progressive Protestant perspective, the text deftly blends ancient wisdom with contemporary concerns. It will be useful both as a textbook in spiritual direction programs and as a more general guide for those interested in how questions of vocation and mindfulness take shape in our age of pressure and distraction." - Robert Saler, Executive Director, Center for Pastoral Excellence; Research Professor of Lutheran Studies, Christian Theological Seminary
"Jeff Nelson has made the contemplative life accessible in Coffeehouse Contemplative. Bringing light to the murky waters of 'spirituality,' Nelson fleshes out concepts like meditation, mindfulness and prayer. Most importantly, perhaps, is the encouragement that one find a traveling partner on the path of spiritual deepening, which holds many surprising places in which to encounter the divine." - Bryan Berghoef, author of
Pub Theologian: Beer, Conversation, and God
