This classic of Christian devotional literature has brought understanding and comfort to millions for centuries. Both Protestants and Catholics -- as well as mystics and historians of religious thought -- have studied these meditations on the life and teachings of Jesus, finding in them a path to prayer and spiritual guidance. Written in a candid and conversational style, The Imitation of Christ discusses liberation from worldly inclinations, recollection as a preparation for prayer, the consolations of prayer, and the place of eucharistic communion in a devout life. With its simple, readable text, this translation will appeal to new readers as well as to those already familiar with this religious classic.

A bold new way of thinking about Christian mission

"With, " says Samuel Wells, "is the most important word in the Christian faith."

In this compelling follow-up to Incarnational Ministry: Being with the Church, Wells explores what it means for mission-minded Christians and churches to be with the world.

Drawing on the Gospels, Acts, and personal insights gleaned from his more than two decades in ministry, Wells elaborates on the concept of being with in eight dimensions: presence, atten-tion, mystery, delight, participation, partnership, enjoyment, and glory. His vivid narratives and wise reflections will help Christian readers better understand how to be with all kinds of people outside the church, both individually and collectively.

CONTENTS

Prologue: Not of This Fold

Introduction: The Mission of Being With

1. Being with the Lapsed

2. Being with Seekers

3. Being with Those of No Professed Faith

4. Being with Those of Other Faiths

5. Being with the Hostile

6. Being with Neighbors

7. Being with Organizations

8. Being with Institutions

9. Being with Government

10. Being with the Excluded

Epilogue: Are You Hungry?

"The process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others: " so M. Robert Mulholland Jr. defines spiritual formation. Compact and solid, this definition encompasses the dynamics of a vital Christian life and counters our culture's tendency to make spirituality a trivial matter or reduce it to a private affair between "me and Jesus." InInvitation to a Journey, Mulholland helps Christians new and old to understand that we become like Christ gradually, not instantly. Not every personality is suited to an early morning quiet time, so Mulholland frees different personality types to express their piety differently. He reviews the classical spiritual disciplines and demonstrates the importance of undertaking our spiritual journey with (and for the sake of) others. This road map for spiritual formation is profoundly biblical and down to earth. In the finest tradition of spiritual literature, it is a vital help to Christians at any stage of their journey.