Customer Reviews

Spiritual Passages: The Psychology of Spiritual Development "for those who seek"

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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.

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.

Father Groeschel's presentation of ideas is sound and interesting, and the illustrations using incidents in the lives of people he has known a good approach. However, he tends to present some very intriguing concepts, then insufficiently develop them with clear explanations. For example, he refers to the Good Thief's conversation with Christ on the Cross as manipulative, but assumes the reader (who is unlikely to be a psychologist) will grasp why. The book is an excellent starting point, theologically solid and in accord with classic spirituality, but as a reader I found myself begging for more development and ideas about integration of the principles into one's own prayer life.

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.

This book makes you think, feel and even "shudder" with its profound discussion and presentation of ideas that have been around forever but have a new interpretation or deep belief of the world we live in versus the world that should exist. What are we? Who are we? Where did we really come from? Why do we doubt that Jesus existed and lived for us and died for us? Ask all of these questions. The answers are there, but each individual needs to find his own answers. Your answers will not be the same as mine nor will your questions. This book makes you think and I believe that the thinking will eventually make you understand and totally believe. Your belief may not be the same belief as mine but it will be a belief that will fit with the "Creators wishes". Try it, you will like it, even though you will be totally confused at times.

I have read many of Father Groschel's books and this one makes you think deeply about many things in your life that are troublesome or disturbing.
You will need to read this book slowly and meditate on what he says. It is one of the best books I have ever read on spiritual development. Father Groeschel is a very good writer and is worthy of your time to read it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is serious about how to improve their spiritual development from a noted psychologist and priest.

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.