John Kirvan is the author of Raw Faith and Silent Hope, both companion volumes to this work, and of Thirty Days with a Great Spiritual Teacher – a library of 14 books which offer the wisdom of the mystics for daily mediation. He writes primarily about classical spirituality.

Parts One and Three of this book are a brief introduction and concluding remarks by the author. The heart of this book is Part Two – 50 Experiences for the Soul – consisting of five “page pairs” (text page plus prayer page) for each of ten writers of classical spirituality and mysticism. Each author of five “page pairs” focuses on a specific topic. They are Longing by C.S. Lewis, Looking by Thomas Merton, Home by Rumi, Foolishness by Ramon Lull, More by Gregory of Nyssa, Dying by Francis of Assisi, Unknowing by Angelus Silesius, Ayin from the Kabbalah, Passion by Hildegard of Bingin, and Resurrection by Evelyn Underhill.

This book on spirituality could be read in different ways. I first read it one author at a time. I’ve since kept it handy, reading one or more “page pairs” each time. As is often the case with such books, you get more with each reading. John Kirvan did an excellent job of feeding, by contemplation and prayer, the deep God Hunger we all feel. I give this book a very strong recommendation. Savor it!