The Ascent to Joy

Selected Writings of John of the Cross

For more than a decade this book, now with ICS Publications, has been a valuable resource for those wanting to explore the works and teachings of St. John of the Cross in a convenient format. In this concise introduction to and anthology of the works of the great Carmelite mystic, Father Marc Foley leads the reader step-by-step into the very heart of John’s spiritual way.

Father Foley provides substantial introductions and notes to carefully selected excerpts from John’s own writings, presented in a systematic order. This allows the book to function as both a primer of John’s teaching and a profound introduction to the contemplative way. The introduction offers a helpful biographical summary of John’s life as well as a chronology of key events in his life to situate his texts in a clear historical context.

The Ascent to Joy is ideal for readers just discovering John of the Cross and those wishing to revisit his works and teachings, for Carmelite formation programs, and for courses in religious studies and the classical literature of mysticism. A select bibliography is included.