Celtic Christian Spirituality: Essential Writings--Annotated & 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 traditionselections 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. Earles engaging facing-page commentary explores how faithful Christians and spiritual seekers can take inspiration from this lively traditions 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 author of The Desert Mothers: Spiritual Practices from the Women of the Wilderness, and co-author of Holy Companions: Spiritual Practices from the Celtic Saints and Praying with the Celtic Saints. She has offered retreats and classes on the Celtic Christian tradition for over twenty years in seminary, conference and national settings. She is a frequent contributor to www.explorefaith.org.