Becoming Christ: Transformation Through Contemplation

by Brian C. Taylor

Book Overview

With clarity, wisdom, and wit, Brian Taylor offers a fresh look at contemplative prayer as the pathway to genuine healing and spiritual transformation. Taylor gives practical, how-to advice for those with a serious interest in contemplative prayer, and also explores its roots in the faith and traditions of the church. This book is itself the fruit of years of contemplative practice, and whether you are new to this form of prayer or an experienced...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1561012009
• ISBN13: 9781561012008
• Release Date: January 2002
• Publisher: Cowley Publications
• Length: 234 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.7" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

A Handbook for Contemplative Prayer

While I was initially a little put-off by the title ("Becoming Christ-Like" might have been a little less troublesome), I purchased this book because I had read two other books by this author, and liked both of them. Taylor, an Episcopal priest, clearly writes from first-hand experience. His thoughts on contemplative prayer are informed by the Orthodox tradition, e.g., he suggests using the Jesus Prayer as a mantra. The meditation approach he suggests is similar to, but different from, both Thomas Keating's (Centering Prayer) and John Main's (Chrisitan Meditation). The book is divided into three parts: Practice, Context, and Transformation. While the third part is potentially the most powerful, I felt that it was somewhat unfocused and "rambling" in nature. Having said all this, Taylor's treatment of the subject is comprehensive and, as suggested in the title of this review, can be regarded as "A Handbook for Contemplative Prayer." I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this subject.

superbly balanced and insightful

This book addresses contemplative prayer, in particular within the Jesus Prayer and lectio divina traditions, and is in my opinion the best guide to the theology and practice of contemplative prayer that I have read. What makes this book special is the realism and balance of Taylor's approach. He is aware of the trap of looking to spirituality as a way of avoiding life, but believes that a discipline of prayer should and can help one engage with life all the more. There are more sophisticated books out there, but there is plenty of sophistication in this book too, but it is lightly expressed. I recommend this book warmly.