Ascent To Joy

A perfect introduction to John of the Cross writings, this anthology makes the Spanish saint and mystic accessible to the average reader. Contains ample introductions and annotations, opening up the complete spectrum of Johns spirituality.In this wellcrafted introduction and anthology, Marc Foley leads the reader step by step into the very heart of the spiritual way taught by John of the Cross. Nearly every serious spiritual seeker at some point experiences a need to look to the teaching of this sixteenthcentury Spanish saint and mystic for guidance, especially when one faces one’s personal night of the soul. Here, the student or seeker can gain an intimate acquaintance not only with the rigor for which John is so wellknown, but also with his tenderness, his passion, and his poetic heart. Foley provides substantial introductions and notes, but the core of the teaching is developed in carefullyselected excerpts from John’s own writings. The special gift of Ascent to Joy is that these excerpts are presented in a systematic order, so that the text can function both as a primer of John’s teaching and as a profound introduction to the contemplative way. This volume fills a muchneeded niche in the array of spiritual books available today.Mary FrohlichCatholic Theological UnionChicago, ILLet Marc Foley, a seasoned, skillful and insightful reader of John of the Cross, be your guide to a deeper understanding of the journey to union with God as this journey is depicted by the Carmelite poet, mystic and master of the spiritual life.Keith J. EganSaint Mary’s College and University of Notre Dame