Spiritual Passages: The Psychology of Spiritual Development

Purchased just as described. I've read the book before and actually purchased as a gift for a friend. Fr. Groeschel is uplifting and wise.

This is a great treatment of spiritual formation in light of psychological growth. Fr. Benedict J. Groeschel guides the reader through spiritual childhood, adolescence and adulthood. It is a particularly beneficial read for spiritual directors or those simply wanting to seriously examine their own growth process. While not opaque, this is also not a light, feel-good book for the bedside. It will be most appreciated by students of thought and Christian Spirituality and should find a permnent place in your library.

In a world struggling with postmodern issues of diversity and truth Groeschel, using the ancient model of Catholic spiritual pilgrimage, offers a meaningful perspective into our spiritual development. Not only is our spirituality inextricably tied to every other aspect of life and development, our unique history and experience condition the way we perceive God. Though not exclusive, Groeschel suggests four primary orientations to God: as One (unity), the Good, Truth or Beauty. Unlike so many books on spiritual development that cryptically elevate one spiritual orientation above another, Groeschel expands our psychological awareness of the spiritual pilgrimage by helping us to understand that each of us possess a primary orientation to God and Christ that may indeed be different but not necessarily superior or less developed than others.

Fr. Benedict is one of the most brilliant teachers i've ever heard. He speaks at Catholic conferences and on his own cable show in the East Coast (USA). His pellucid explanations, on diverse topics (relevant to the spiritual life of everyone), have no rival in the English language. This book outlines the different stages of spiritual growth. Since the spirit, (in contrast to the soul) is discussed, it's relevant to people of any religious background, but, most especially understandable to Christians. His discussions are rich and stay closely focused on his topic.