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Being human is a lifelong journey of becoming. This journey defines our humanity, for it is a journey toward our source and our fulfillment, described in Christian theology as union with God. If we remain open to God as our sense of self awakens, we experience a deeper consciousness of being in him. The self that emerges during this process is larger, more enlightened, and whole.

David Benner, who has spent thirty-five years integrating psychology and spirituality, presents psychological insights in a readable fashion to offer readers a deeper understanding of the self and its spiritual development. Drawing on a broad range of Christian traditions, Benner shows that the transformation of self is foundational to Christian spirituality.

This book will appeal to readers interested in a psychologically grounded, fresh exploration of Christian spirituality; professionals engaged in pastoral care, counseling, and spiritual direction; and students in ministry development and spiritual formation courses. Questions and answers for individual or group use are included at the end of each chapter.

Tabla de contenidos provista por Syndetics

• Preface: The Journey of Human Becoming(p. vii)
• 1 Human Awakening(p. 1)
• 2 Mapping the Unfolding Self(p. 19)
• 3 Growth and the Lines of Development(p. 37)
• 4 Transformation and the Levels of Development(p. 55)
• 5 Learning from the Christian Mystics(p. 73)
• 6 The Body-Centered Self(p. 89)
• 7 The Mind-Centered Self(p. 105)
• 8 The Soul-Centered Self(p. 121)
• 9 The Spirit-Centered Self(p. 137)
• 10 Spirituality and Awakening(p. 155)
• 11 The Communal Context of Transformation(p. 173)
• 12 Transformation and Transcendence(p. 191)
• Appendix 1 Dreamwork for Growth and Transformation(p. 213)
• Appendix 2 Meditation, Prayer, and Awakening(p. 222)
• Notes(p. 228)
• Index(p. 236)

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Publishers Weekly Review

In a challenging multidisciplinary analysis of psychological change and spiritual development, psychologist Benner (Soulful Spirituality) leads off by arguing that "full personhood comes only from a lifelong journey of becoming that, as we shall see, must be lived in a posture of openness, trust, willingness and surrender." Blending insights from psychology, theology, anthropology, his own clinical practice, and other disciplines, the author suggests that the adventurous journey of the "awakening self" is one of experiencing the possibility of "radical" transformation leading to oneness with God. Throughout the book, stories from the Christian mystics and other spiritual tutors provide a rich array of examples of communion with the divine as the writer presents his vision of the self as it moves from one stage of consciousness to the next. Benner's generous use of examples from outside the framework of traditional Christian thought and his rather unorthodox approach to congregational life may make some readers uncomfortable. But if they persist, they will find this profound journey into spiritual and psychological growth provocative, enriching, and full of insights that will stay with them after they have put down the book. (Feb.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

Notas de autor provistas por Syndetics

David G. Benner (PhD, York University; post-doctoral studies, Chicago Institute of Psychoanalysis) is an internationally known psychologist, the author or editor of more than twenty books, a spiritual guide, and a personal transformation coach. He serves as Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Spirituality at the Psychological Studies Institute, Rjchmont Graduate University. Visit his website at www.drdavidgbenner.ca.