"I put this at the top of the list as required reading for spiritual directors and spiritual formation classes. The clear, foundational writing introduces 'art in service to the soul.' Brimming with multiple art forms, we get to hear the voice of directors and directees who are profoundly affected by the arts. This book is the next best thing to learning directly from such wise, inspiring teachers." -Cynthia Winton-Henry, co-founder of InterPlay, author of Dance--A Sacred Art, and What the Body Wants
"We have been far too left-brained, verbal and linear in our attempts to transform and mature actual people--intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. Here we have two women filling the tragic gap--and beautifully so! Spiritual direction is the growing edge of ministry today and this excellent book will surely direct that growth." -Father Richard Rohr, O.F.M.
"Word, image, music, dance: this book provides a rich vocabulary for entering more deeply into conversation and communion with the One who gives us the arts as path to knowing God." -Jan Richardson, artist and author, In Wisdom's Path: Discovering the Sacred in Every Season
"...[A]n inspiring and regenerating piece of work that teaches the intrinsic significance of the arts and the value of engaging body, mind and spirit in creative pursuit of awakening the Holy that resides within." -Rebecca Bradburn Langer, D.Min,. Adjunct Faculty, San Francisco Theological Seminary Program in Christian Spirituality
Replete with exercises, examples, stories, and resources, Awakening the Creative Spirit offers the most comprehensive guide to date on how to develop the 'spark of divine creativity' embedded in us all. Those of us engaged in teaching the art of spiritual direction will find in it a beautiful introduction to the arts as the 'language of the soul.'" -Mary Rose Bumpus, RSM, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Spirituality, School of Theology and Ministry, Seattle University
"Christine Valters Paintner and Betsey Beckman showcase the gifts of storytelling, imagination, dance, visual art, music, movement, poetry, and presence. Through a gentle weaving of their insightful work, with reflections from workshop participants and the community of spiritual directors, the author prepare a dazzling palette for discovery and deepening." -Marianne Hieb, RSM, ATR, MFA, D.Min., Director, Lourdes Wellness Spirituality Program, and author of Inner Journeying through Art-Journaling
