Within each of the four gospels, there is a foundational spirit, a spirituality of the gospels. That is to say, each gospel contains rich images and values central to the Vision of the person of Jesus' and to the path toward spiritual transformation in his image. In this volume Patrick Hartin first looks at each gospel and asks such questions as Who is Jesus? and What transformation does this encounter with Jesus invite? Hartin then follows with examples of people who have appropriated the transformative power of these particular spiritualties from Saint Antony and Dorothy Day to Saint Augustine and Archbishop Romero. Hartin's twofold approach gives us a deeper appreciation for the spiritual dimension of the gospels and helps us to be transformed in Christ by their message and Vision.
"For those readers looking for a spiritual vision that is more than pious wishes, that has real content, Patrick Hartin's book is ideal. ... Nuanced, subtle, yet very accessible, Hartin's work offers a gracious reading of the Gospels. It is ideally suited for Catholic undergraduate and church audiences, but would appeal to non-Catholic readers too."
Amy C. Merrill Willis, Lynchburg College, Lynchburg, VA
"Fr. Hartin's book provides an excellent entry point for those interested in exploring biblically based Christian spiritualities."
Kenneth G. Stenstrup, PhD, Assistant Professor of Theology
"In his most recent, wonderfully accessible book, Patrick Hartin offers the reader a thoughtful exploration of the spirituality of the four canonical gospels."
Robert Kugler, Paul S. Wright Professor of Christian Studies