The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism: An Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality
✍️ McColman, CarlAn accessible introduction to Christian contemplative spirituality and its historical lineage.
Rooted in Cistercian guidance and historical lineages, this book outlines the practice of contemplation within the Christian tradition. Carl McColman examines the intersection of personal practice, community life, and social action. The text functions as a practical resource for readers seeking clear definitions of mystical spirituality without losing sight of historical context. By combining historical background with structured learning resources, McColman provides a foundation for seekers exploring monastic and Celtic traditions.
Published by Broadleaf Books in August 2023, this paperback volume reflects modern American interest in traditional contemplative practices, Cistercian spirituality, and interfaith dialogue.
Praise for this book
“Comprehensive, accessible, and dynamic, Carl McColman's New Big Book of Christian Mysticism is a masterpiece! Offering a rich mix of history, clear explanation, attention to the social dimension, inclusivity, community, and resources for further learning, The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism leads us gently into the deeply ordinary, very human, keenly subversive and joyful activity we simply call contemplation. A must-read for every spiritual seeker!”
“With The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism, Carl McColman has reawakened in me that deep, radical, relational tenderness that first called me into the practices and lineage of Christian mysticism. This book offers helpful definition without ceasing to dance, and makes present both the mystery of Presence and the wonderful companionship of those who have gone before us.”
“A mystic is one whose eyes are open to seeing the Eternal in every fleeting moment of human life on this earth, and whose heart is open to the Love that permeates each and every thing in this universe. This new volume lays out more of the rich treasures of the Christian tradition for those aspiring to awaken their mystic heart.”
📝 Description: The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism: An Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality
💎 Expert review
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers seeking to understand the evolving spiritual landscape of younger generations will find this guide invaluable. It offers a compassionate lens through which to view how Millennials and Gen Z navigate faith, adversity, and legacy-making outside rigid institutional boundaries. If you are a mentor, parent, or fellow traveler in the realm of contemplative spirituality, this book provides essential insights into how meaning is forged today. It validates the diverse pathways young people take to connect with the divine, proving that faith remains a vital component of identity even when detached from traditional structures. It is for those who wish to support emerging leaders and understand the nuanced ways in which purpose is defined in a rapidly changing world.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
While this study offers valuable sociological data on contemporary spirituality, it may not suit readers seeking deep theological rigor or ancient mystical texts. Those looking for prescriptive religious advice or dogmatic certainty will likely find its exploratory nature too abstract. The reliance on interviews with individuals under forty means the perspective is narrowly focused on a specific demographic's experience rather than universal spiritual truths. It lacks the historical depth expected by traditional mysticism scholars, instead offering a snapshot of current trends. Readers preferring dense philosophical analysis over accessible narrative may feel it is too light. However, for those interested in the intersection of sociology and spirituality, it provides a candid look at modern meaning-making.
❓ Frequently asked questions
📖 Who should read this
If you're curious about the evolving spiritual landscape or seeking to understand the inner lives of younger generations, this book offers invaluable insight. Parents, educators, spiritual leaders, and anyone interested in contemporary culture will find its findings profoundly relevant.
🎯 Key themes and symbolism
Generational Meaning-Making
This book explores how younger Americans, specifically Millennials and Gen Z, actively construct purpose and significance in their lives. It details their diverse approaches to finding belonging, confronting challenges, and shaping their personal narratives, often outside conventional frameworks.
Evolving Faith Dynamics
The text examines how faith manifests among younger cohorts, frequently independent of organized religion. It highlights their complex relationship with traditional spiritual practices, showcasing a desire for connection and transcendent meaning even when formal affiliation is absent.
Collaborative Inquiry Method
The research methodology centers on "collaborative storytelling conversations," where researchers and interviewees engage in mutual truth-seeking. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of individual experiences, offering authentic narratives that challenge and affirm societal perspectives.
📜 Historical context
📚 Glossary
- Meaning-Making
- Gen Z
- Collaborative Storytelling
📔 Questions to reflect on
- How do you personally define "meaning-making" in your own life, and what experiences have most shaped that definition?
- Reflect on a time when your beliefs about faith or spirituality converged with or diverged from traditional expectations. What did you learn from that experience?
- Consider your own "legacy." What impact do you hope to leave, and how are your daily choices contributing to that vision?
📖 Read on the blog
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