Description: Called as pope, St. John Paul II emerged onto St. Peter's balcony proclaiming, "Do not be afraid!" What theology and mystery inspired this surprising proclamation? John Paul II's quest for holiness was grounded in the mystical insight that we participate in God. We seek the Beatific Vision, the Face of God, through which we are transformed in theosis or divinization. This infusion of grace perfects and unites us. In this book readers will find engaging theology intermixed with spiritual direction and lectio divina meditations. Utilizing Aquinas' method of scriptural interpretation, we are offered ways of seeking spiritual fulfillment to behold the Beatific Vision. Fr. Tom Kuffel shares personal experiences from his time studying and working in Rome, Nebraska, and Alaska. Reflecting on his own priesthood, his fascinating narratives encourage our own spiritual growth. Readers find fresh ways of engaging Scripture through St. John Paul II's New Pentecost, encouraging new interpretations of Vatican II.
Brief description: Nancy Carol James has published 13 books by and about Madame Jeanne Guyon. Paul Haffner of the Pontifical Gregorian University writes, "Nancy James has become the key and leading expert on Guyon and her invitation to understand Guyon spirituality better is to be greatly welcomed and appreciated." In 2022 Fr. Thomas Kuffel and Nancy Carol James published The Ascent to God: Divine Theosis Revealed and Realized in the Teaching of John Paul II. The book's introduction was written by Bishop Chad Zeilinski, Bishop of New Ulm. The book received the imprimatur from Bishop Larry Silva of Honolulu.