Books by Julia Gatta

Spiritual Direction from the English Mystics:'The Revelations of Divine Love', by Julian of Norwich'The Cloud of Unknowing', Anonymous'Scale of Perfection', Walter HiltonThe current popularity enjoyed by these 14th century English mystics lies in their vocation to seek union with God. Here, for the first time, Julia Gatta shows these mystics to be prototypes for the modern spiritual director, displaying keen insights into that pastoral art. At the heart of the mystics' writings is their own intense desire not merely to see and know God for themselves, but also to bring others to this union with God.

- Background on spiritual practices for Episcopalians - Noted spiritual director shares wisdom from Anglican tradition With its great heritage from English mystics, the Episcopal Church has been "spiritual" since before it was trendy, and modern Episcopalians have been in the forefront of exploring practices beyond Anglican boundaries. Yet, perhaps only rarely do they grasp the implications of the theology embedded in these practices or in the liturgies of the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, which has shaped Episcopalians in this country with its emphasis on baptismal spirituality and the centrality of the Eucharist. Julia Gatta wants to change that with her new book, Life in Christ. Applying her years of experience as pastor and spiritual director combined with her study of the spiritual wisdom of the past, she explores common Christian practices and their underlying theology through an Episcopal lens. In the tradition of Esther de Waal, Martin Smith, and Martin Thornton, with particular reference to scripture, The Book of Common Prayer, and the wisdom of the Christian spiritual tradition, she illuminates methods readers may already be practicing and provides insight and guidance to ones that may be new to them.

While many books tell clergy how to run a capital campaign, handle conflict, and lead a vestry, this book helps pastors, chaplains, and lay professionals appreciate the spiritual depth of their calling and reminds them that parish ministry is Christ working through them.