Angelic Spirituality: Medieval Perspectives on the Ways of Angels (Classics of Western Spirituality) [Paperback]

Steven Chase (Editor)

Book Description

Series: Classics of Western Spirituality | Publication Date: November 2002

What is it about angels that so fascinates us, inspires us and makes us want to know more about them? Now, in this thoroughly intriguing Classic of Western Spirituality™ that is sure to have wide appeal, translator and editor Steven Chase introduces readers to the rich and varied tradition of angels in the lives of men and women. Drawing on works from a variety of medieval writers from roughly the 4th to the 13th centuries, he explores the extensive landscape of angels in medieval Christian devotion and, for the benefit of modern readers, retrieves a very rich vein in the Christian spiritual tradition. Section One explores issues in angelic spirituality ranging from metaphysical speculation to practical, formative, devotional and contemplative themes as developed in the works of, among others, Augustine, Bernard of Clairvaux and Gregory the Great. Section Two offers selections from medieval commentaries that explore angelic spirituality in the light of theology, the moral life, contemplation, aesthetics and mystical consciousness. Angelic Spirituality contributes to establishing solid evidence of Christian angelic spirituality that goes beyond popular interest.It reintroduces a forgotten Christian spiritual tradition and will interest everyday readers as well as scholars.

--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Steven Chase, who holds a Ph.D. in historical theology from Fordham University, is resident associate professor of spirituality at Western Theological Seminary, Holland, MI. This is his third book. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Paulist Pr (November 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0809139480
• ISBN-13: 978-0809139484
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,022,931 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Steven Chase, Ph.D. was born and grew up amid the redwood forests of northern California and southern Oregon. He has taught spirituality and historical theology for 20 years and is currently Resident Scholar at the Collegeville Institute of Ecumenical and Cultural Research in Minnesota. Steven has served as a spiritual director since 1992, has led many spiritual retreats, and has served as Director of Prayer and Ritual at a Dominican center of spirituality. He is past President of the Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality. Steven's writing includes subjects in mysticism, spirituality, contemplation, and nature. Just out are two related books, Nature as Spiritual Practice and A Field Guide to Nature as Spiritual Practice. These innovative books together show how nature serves as a sacred text and and how clearly described, practical "creation practices" can instill reverence and wonder toward nature while awakening a greater commitment to creation care. The two books contain thought-provoking contemplative exercises that reclaim the role of nature in the formation of spiritual and moral identity. Dr. Chase is currently writing a theological commentary on the Book of Job that will emphasize the role of creation in both suffering and transformation in the spiritual journey. He is the father of a lovely, wonder-possessed nineteen year old daughter, Rachel.