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by John Paul Thomas (Author)
Saint John of the Cross is considered by many as the greatest Spiritual Doctor of the Catholic Church. This high honor elevates his spiritual writings and adds much confidence to those relying upon his teaching. He is a true master of the interior life and has left us a treasure of spiritual wisdom in his four main works, "Ascent to Mount Carmel," "Dark Night of the Soul," "Spiritual Canticle" and "Living Flame of Love." These four books, combined together, make up one continuous exposition of mystical theology that peers into the journey each one of us is called to take toward the life of perfect union with God. In his teachings, Saint John Cross especially focuses on two forms of "purgations," or "dark nights," through which every soul must pass in order to achieve perfection in life.
This book attempts to present the profound theology of Saint John of the Cross found in these four great works in a way that is understandable and accessible to most readers. The reader will find an overview and summary of the most essential lessons of the spiritual life as well as practical advice for growing in holiness. May Saint John, master of the spiritual life, pray for you on your journey toward the glory of Divine Union.Author Biography
John Paul Thomas is a pen name chosen by this priest in honor of the Apostles Saints John and Thomas and the great evangelist Saint Paul. This name also evokes the memory of the great Pope Saint John Paul II. John is the beloved Apostle who sought out a deeply personal and intimate relationship with his Savior. Hopefully the writings in this book point us all to a deeply personal and intimate relationship with our God. May John be a model of this intimacy and love. Thomas is also a beloved Apostle and close friend of Jesus but is best known for his lack of faith in Jesus' resurrection. Though he ultimately entered into a profound faith crying out, "my Lord and my God," he is given to us as a model of our own weakness of faith. Thomas should inspire us to always return to faith after struggling with doubt. For coming he doubted, doubting he saw, seeing he touched, touching he believed, and believing he shared. As a Pharisee, Paul severely persecuted the early Christian Church. However, after experiencing a powerful conversion, he went on to become the great evangelist to the gentiles, founding many new communities of believers and writing numerous letters found in Sacred Scripture. His writings are deeply personal and reveal a shepherd's heart. He is a model for all as we seek to embrace our calling to spread the Gospel.
