Book Review:
Soul Feast
By Erna Dennis, LPCC
A great book to read and digest for Lent is Soul Feast, An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life, by Marjorie J. Thompson. It is ecumenical, inclusive of all Christians. It appeals to those who sincerely seek God, no matter what their denomination or tradition. (A minister's recent New Year's wish to her congregation was: "I wish for you that is this year you will seek God as you have never sought God before.") Marjorie Thompson outlines spiritual practices which create a space for God. Among them are spiritual reading, praying, spiritual guidance, hospitality, and the development of a "rule of life."
Pastors often pose the question: "How can I enable my church to be beacon of light and justice in this troubled world?" Too often church members and leaders are caught up in the whirlwind of life, stressed out by demands of work, family and church. Often there is behavior and language that makes one wonder where Christ is in all of this. I am convinced as we develop a "practice" of staying in touch with God and teach it to our congregations, the church will look less like a worldly corporation and be more a place of worship and healing.
I have used this book as a guide in PPI's Women in Ministry Group and have been surprised by its effect on all of us. So much so, that in the month of December, we took time out for an overnight silent retreat. We have become aware of the variety of practices and how a rich prayerful life transforms the day and brings an inner calm and peace. When someone came to Mother Teresa and informed her of the many things they had to do that day, she responded: "Instead of one hour of prayer, we better do two." Psalm 63:5 says it all: "My soul is satisfied as with a rich feast, and my mouth praises you with joyful lips . . ."
Psychological and spiritual growth are the benefits of studying and applying practices in this book. About the author: Marjorie Thompson received her Masters Degree at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, studied ecumenical Christian Spirituality at Yale, then joined the staff at a large East Coast Presbyterian Church where she focused on spiritual formation, finally broadening her ministry through teaching, workshops and retreats. In Soul Feast, she integrates a solid biblical vision and a practical hands-on approach.
If your church is interested in learning more about the varieties of grayer and practices, PPI can provide a study-group forum with a Pastoral Counselor, either at your location or at PPI. This could be a project for Lent or any time of the year in which key people learn and experience the spiritual practices of the centuries. For more information, Erna Dennis at (513) 791-5990.
Reprinted with permission from the Spring, 1998 edition of PPImprints, the Journal of The Professional Pastoral-Counseling Institute, Inc. To be notified when PPImprints is published, please register.
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