general

I've just started praying "Celtic Daily Prayer" this year, several times a week and find this prayer guide a lovely way to deepen my intimacy with God and connect with my Celtic heritage. The book includes daily prayer services, daily readings and prayers for set times of the year, as well as prayers/devotions based in the life of Celtic saints. Even people who hail from a different ethnic heritage will find that Celtic Daily Prayer offers community wisdom and a down to earth guide to daily prayer in the family. The Northumbria Community also offers these daily prayer services and prayers on a CD by the same title, though I found the CD less appealing or helpful than the book. For two other books on Family Prayer, look at THE FAMILY CLOISTER: BENEDICTINE WISDOM FOR THE HOME (Crossroad, 2000), and THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY TOOLBOX: 52 BENEDICTINE ACTIVITIES FOR THE HOME (Crossroad, 2001).

When I first came on this incredible collection, my heart was deeply stirred and thoroughly warmed. My heart and head felt connected in a deep, holistic manner. I want to share these readings with all who would listen to their hearts. To use "focusing" language a la the "focusing method," the connection was made on a deep physical/spiritual/emotional/intellectual level that transcends human verbiage. In the words of some of the ancient Roman writers, "Mirabile dictu!" (A wonder to behold!) Try this one out for your spiritual growth and insights... I don't think you will be disappointed.

For a blending of the ancient and the modern, this book of prayers and daily devotionals fits the bill better than anything else available today. Besides the liturgies of morning, midday, and evening prayer, with accompanying scripture readings, there are prayers for special situations and events, not to mention two entire years of daily devotional readings. The interest in Celtic Christianity that has taken root in recent years may seem almost faddish, yet there is a depth of spirituality here that is refreshing and rewarding. This is one of the best tools available to strengthen one's inner life with God.