Promptings from Paradise

Well-known Celtic expert J. Philip Newell uses imaginative contemplation of the Gospels to bring readers to the realization that the kingdom of God is already within them. By recovering this forgotten image and learning to hear the "promptings" from this Paradise within, readers are led to a deeper relationship with God, a greater empathy for others and, finally, a more active involvement with the world. Imbued with Celtic spirituality's belief in the presence of God hidden in all things, this beautifully written work draws from classical Ignatian methods of contemplation. Newell shows that, at one level, we are all contemplatives. He then helps us move from prayer to social action, to share in the world's brokenness and to share our own brokenness with the world. Each chapter opens with scripture and ends with suggested exercises for Gospel contemplation. Appropriate for both private and small-group use, this is truly inspirational reading for all spiritual seekers, anyone interested in Celtic or Ignatian spirituality, anyone who meditates, anyone who prays with or is learning to pray with scripture, and anyone working for social justice. It's also ideal for small-faith communities, seasonal parish programs, and regular prayer groups.J. Philip Newell