Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire

The Christian Practice of Praying with the Elements
$15.95

Table of Contents

Read a Sample

Format: Paperback

Publication date: March 1, 2010

Also available from

Description

Organized around “The Canticle of the Creatures” by St. Francis of Assisi, Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire is the first book to consider the ways in which praying with the natural elements can enliven Christian spiritual life. Teacher, artist, and Benedictine oblate Christine Valters Paintner offers concrete suggestions and guided contemplative exercises; for instance, she suggests that readers take time to “watch the sunrise or sunset and breathe in the beauty of the fiery sky. Contemplate what those beginnings and endings have to say in your own life.” Readers benefit from Paintner's extensive training in theology and Benedictine spirituality, as well as her unique work in bringing the expressive arts to spiritual direction.

Product Details

Pages: 160

Trim size: 6 x 9 inches

ISBN: 9781933495224

Imprint: Sorin Books

  • “A rare treasure.”

    Wind, Earth, and Fire is a rare treasure: a deeply Christian book that also draws us more deeply into contemplation of and relationship with nature. This fine work of spiritual wisdom and guidance offers to both individuals and groups a companion for all seasons. It can soothe at night, enliven in the morning, kindle the human spirit during the day, and at all times serve as a reminder of the abiding presence of the Creator Spirit, which is the spirit of Christ on earth and among us.”

    Jane Redmont
    Author of When in Doubt, Sing

  • “An inspiring and rejuvenating adventure.”

    “For too many centuries, too many Christians have been taught that a deep reverence for the beauty of nature is incompatible with sincere faith. Christine Valters Paintner's Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire thus comes as both a blessing and a gift. Not only is her writing as beautiful as the symbolism she describes, but her wide knowledge of scripture, patristic writing, the mystical life of the saints, and contemporary spiritual poetry makes the reading of this book an inspiring and rejuvenating adventure.”

    Paula Huston
    Author of One Ordinary Sunday

  • “Forges deep and rich connections.”

    “This well-done and quote-filled paperback forges deep and rich connections between the Christian faith and the natural world.”

    Spirituality and Practice

Related Products